An Integrated W-Band Dual-Polarization Receiver Front-End Featuring Ultra-Low Noise Figure

In this paper, we describe the architectural considerations, building blocks and the assembly of an integrated receive front-end module for 2 D array communication applications between 81 and 86 GHz. To allow for array applications at these frequencies, the entire module must conform to a width and height of less than 10.8 mm, respectively. Within this footprint, we integrated a unique architecture featuring an exceptional noise figure of less than 2.5 dB, very good input return loss of better than 17 dB on module level, separate amplification paths for left and right-hand circular polarization, and a rejection of the TX frequency bands of more than 65 dBc as well as the required auxiliary circuitry to bias the integrated circuits. These attributes qualify the module for applications in next-generation high-throughput satellites, where highest performance allows for significantly increased data rates.