The 5~18GHz frequency C/X/Ku-band beamformer GX1000 is applied in satellite communication systems

Beamforming technology is crucial in satellite communication systems for enhancing signal transmission efficiency, interference resistance, and multi-user access capabilities. The GX1000 beamformer, operating in the 5~18GHz frequency range across C/X/Ku bands, is specifically designed for high-frequency array antennas. This beamformer supports the design of phased array radar and communication systems, enabling the rapid replacement of bulky mechanical steering antenna platforms with a compact solid-state solution. The chip simplifies design and significantly reduces the size, weight, and power consumption of phased array radar systems used in surveillance, communication, and weather monitoring.

The GX1000 beamformer supports an operating frequency range from 5GHz to 18GHz, covering the C-band, X-band, and Ku-band. Its wide frequency coverage enables compatibility with multi-band satellite communications. The GX1000 integrates four receive channels, four transmit channels, and corresponding power combining/dividing networks, making it a highly integrated silicon-based beamforming chip. Both the receive and transmit channels support amplitude and phase control, with a phase accuracy of 7 bits, enabling phase control at intervals of 2.8° within a 360° range. The amplitude accuracy is 6 bits, supporting amplitude control at intervals of 0.5dB within a dynamic range of 31.5dB.

The GX1000 employs a 4-wire SPI logic for register configuration and control, allowing the adjustment of amplitude and phase for each channel, as well as supporting bias adjustment, channel on/off control, and transmit/receive switching. Additionally, the single chip features two address pins to enable serial control of up to four multifunctional chips in an application. Its key functional features are as follows:

Operating frequency range of 5~18 GHz

Time Division Half-Duplex (TDD)

4T4R RF channels with integrated diplexing/splitting network

360° Phase Control / 7-bit / LSB = 2.8°

31.5dB range amplitude control / 6-bit / LSB=0.5dB

Integrated Bias and Channel Control

Integrated temperature sensor

Integrated quantization ADC

Integrated beam storage

Integrated power detector

Single-pin control for rapid switching between transmit and receive states

Standard 4-wire SPI Control Logic

WLCSP package (6.20x6.05x0.725mm)

The chip is powered by a 3.3V main power supply, with 5V and -5V supplying the power modulation section. The SPI digital interface operates at 3.3V logic. The negative voltage of -5V is used for generating negative voltage in the power modulation section (if the power modulation function is not used, the -5V and 5V voltages can be omitted).