Quad beamformer simplifies X-band radar design
Qorvo’s QPX0252 four-channel beamformer IC operates from 7.9 GHz to 12 GHz for use in X-band phased-array radar systems. It supports four radiating antenna elements, with dual-beam receive and single-beam transmit operation. The device’s high transmit output power directly drives compatible Qorvo front-end modules (FEMs), such as the QPF5012, eliminating the need for external driver amplifiers.
X-band radar systems are increasingly adopting active electronically scanned arrays (AESAs), including flat-panel phased arrays. Limited lattice space must accommodate beamformers, FEMs, and power-control devices, making component and interface reduction important. The QPX0252’s four-channel architecture reduces beamformer component count, freeing space within the array lattice.
“Beamformers are typically designed as stand-alone components, leaving customers to integrate the FEMs, bias control and RF switching around them,” said Diwakar Vishakhadatta, VP, Defense & Aerospace Products at Qorvo. “We developed the QPX0252 as part of the X-band front-end architecture, defining its transmit, receive, and control functions around the requirements of the radar system.”
In high-power radar systems, the Qorvo FEM establishes a low system noise figure while the QPX0252 operates in a high-linearity mode. According to Qorvo’s system analysis, the combination achieves up to 20 dB higher cascaded input P1dB than other market offerings.
QPX0252 samples and evaluation kits are available now.
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