Modular Ka-band switch matrices using two RF MEMS technologies

摘要

This paper presents the design and measurement of two different switch matrix modules based on Radio Frequency Microelectromechanical System (RF MEMS) switches. The operational frequency range is between 25.5 GHz and 26.5 GHz for data links between a Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) relay satellite and Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites. The switch matrix implements a key functionality for tracking the incident signals of the LEO satellites on the receive feed antenna array of the GEO satellite's reflector antenna. Two different technologies are used to build simplified switch matrix modules suitable for realizing the full functionality switching matrix. Rogers RT/Duroid 5880 with commercially available RF MEMS is used to build the first module, while EADS in house RF MEMS are integrated in Rogers Ultralam 3850 Liquid Crystal Polymer (LCP) for the second module. Maximum insertion losses of 8.5 dB and 10.2 dB have been measured for the Rogers RT/Duroid 5880 and the LCP module, respectively. Isolation is higher than 45 dB and a minimum return loss of 15 dB is shown. Finally, the measured losses in the LCP module are analyzed and suitable improvements are discussed.