Design of an X-Band TR Module Based on LTCC

Phased array radar, with its electronic scanning, high reliability, and multifunctionality, has become a core equipment for unmanned aerial vehicle detection, modern air defense, meteorological monitoring, and satellite communication. The T/R module is the core equipment of the active phased array radar, and its performance largely determines the performance of the phased array. At the same time, the application scenario requires relatively high transmission gain and transmission power, so attention should be paid to its heating situation. In addition, the overall size requirements for components are gradually becoming stricter, and miniaturization has become a trend in the development of T/R modules. This paper presents a four-channel T/R module in an X-band based on LTCC technology. In order to reduce weight and have high-density electronic devices, this module uses the latest technologies such as low-temperature cofired ceramic substrate (LTCC), Monolithic Microwave Integrated Chip (MMIC), and the MIC assembly process, and is hermetically sealed. The transmission channel of this module has high gain and high power, and the RF signal is transmitted through an eight-layer LTCC board to reduce interference between adjacent signal transmission lines and reduce the module size at the same time. The method of dividing the transmission and reception channels using a metal shell frame reduces crosstalk between the input and output ports of the transmission channel. Good heat dissipation design ensures the thermal management of the module. The test results show that the size of the TR module is 70 mm × 55 mm × 10 mm, the transmission power is ≥39 dBm, the reception gain is >28 dB, and the noise figure is <3 dB.