SBIR/STTR
Active Microwave Technologies Using Ultra-High efficiency P-Band and L -Band Power Amplifiers, Phase I
Project Introduction
AlGaN/GaN devices on SiC substrates will be utilized to achieve Power Added Efficiencies (PAE) in excess of 85%. These wide band-gap solid-state semiconductors will be used in novel Power Amplifier (PA) topologies such as Current Mode Class D (CMCD) and Class E. The power output goal of a single P-band PA module is greater than 50W, and the power output goal of the L-band PA module is greater than 10W. In turn, these power modules will be combined in push-pull to balance configurations for higher power. Phase I will consist of choosing the devices sizes and topologies for the PA modules, and performing extensive modeling and simulation, especially for the large signal non-linear operation with harmonic terminations required to achieve the high efficiency goals. In addition, various power configurations will be simulated to achieve a 50 Ohm output without extensive impedance matching transformations to improve efficiency and useable bandwidth. The power sizing strategies will be evaluated for overall system efficiency, size, and weight trade-offs.
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Anticipated Benefits
For non NASA applications, the proposed solution can be targeted to wideband cellular base stations (L-band), Public Safety Radio Base-Stations (P-band), UAV-Base Earthquake and Volcanic Eruption Advance Warning Systems, NOAA Interferometers, Naval and Air Force UAV Communication and Radar Pods. In June 2006, the President signed the Public Alert and Warning System Executive Order to drive the creation of a more "effective, reliable, integrated, flexible, and comprehensive system that enables the American people to receive alert and warning information through as many means as possible." In response, FEMA established the IPAWS Program Management Office (PMO) in April 2007.[1] A UAV-base advance warning system can increase the speed of communication in both remote and populated locations and save lives. The proposed solution will improve the performance of UAV communications. The UAV's unique ISR and long-endurance capabilities provide the Navy and Air Force with real-time intelligence and situational awareness.
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Primary U.S. Work Locations and Key Partners
| Organizations Performing Work | Role | Type | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
Jet Propulsion Laboratory
(JPL)
|
Lead Organization | NASA Center | Pasadena, California |
| MaXentric Technologies, LLC | Supporting Organization | Industry | Fort Lee, New Jersey |
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Organizational Responsibility
Responsible Mission Directorate:
- Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD)
Lead Center / Facility:
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL)
Responsible Program:
- SBIR/STTR
Project Management
Program Director:
Program Manager:
Project Manager:
Principal Investigator:
- Donald Kimball
Project Duration
Start: Feb 2011
End: Sep 2011
Technology Maturity (TRL)
| Start: | 2 |
| Current: | 2 |
| Estimated End: | 4 |
Applied Research
Development
Demo & Test
Technology Areas
Primary:
- TX03 Aerospace Power and Energy Storage
- TX03.3 Power Management and Distribution
- TX03.3.3 Electrical Power Conversion and Regulation
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