Millimeter Wave MMIC Hologram Beam Former

Manasson, Vladimir A., Waveband Corp.; Sadovnik, Lev, Sierra Nevada Corp.

doi:10.1117/3.2265063.ch8

Book: Tribute to Emil Wolf: Science and Engineering Legacy of Physical Optics

Editor(s): Tomasz P. Jannson

Author(s): Vladimir Manasson, Lev Sadovnik

Published: 2004

https://doi.org/10.1117/3.2265063.ch8

Author Affiliations +

Abstract

A physical optics approach has been found to be very fruitful in designing antennas that make use of the diffraction phenomenon. Flexibility in forming a desired wavefront is achieved by creating a complex diffraction grating, also known as holographic beam forming. Based on this notion, a new type of electronically controlled beam former has been demonstrated. The device operation is based on a real-time reconfigurable hologram formed by electron-hole plasma injected into a planar semiconductor waveguide. The device operates at millimeter-wave frequencies and is capable of forming a wavefront with an arbitrary profile. Digital control is achieved through the use of a millimeter wave/microwave integrated circuit (MMIC) design that holds the promise of unparalleled cost effectiveness. Potential applications include smart antennas, imaging radar, and communications.