GXSC Beamformer Replaces ADAR1000 in Low-Altitude Surveillance Radar

Low-altitude surveillance radars are primarily designed to detect and provide early warning for small, slow-moving targets at low altitudes. The system transmits directional electromagnetic waves via an antenna array to cover the low-altitude airspace; When these electromagnetic waves encounter targets such as drones and low-altitude aircraft, they generate echo signals. These signals are received by the antenna, conditioned by the RF front-end, synthesized through beamforming, and processed to calculate target parameters. The system ultimately outputs information such as target range, velocity, and azimuth, enabling comprehensive monitoring and early warning of low-altitude targets.

The beamforming module is a critical component for the detection performance of low-altitude radars. GXSC’s 4-channel C/X/Ku-band beamformer can replace the ADAR1000 in modern radar systems, satellite communications, electronic countermeasures, and high-end radio measurement applications. Its core technology is based on high-speed RF signal processing and precise phase control, enabling smooth, seamless switching and control between the X-band and Ku-band. The product covers a frequency range from 4 GHz to 16 GHz, meeting the broadband coverage requirements of both military and civilian high-performance communication systems.

Both the receive and transmit channels of the GXSC beamformer support amplitude and phase control. Phase control features 7-bit precision with 2.8° increments over a 360° range, while amplitude control offers 6-bit precision with 0.5dB increments within a 31.5dB dynamic range. Its fast response and high-precision control characteristics address the issues of severe clutter interference and high false detection rates found in traditional radar systems.

The main features of the GXSC beamformer are as follows:

 5–18 GHz operating range

 Receive/transmit time-division half-duplex

 4T4R RF channels with integrated beamforming/deconvolution networks

 360° phase control range / 7-bit / LSB = 2.8°

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

 Integrated bias and channel control

Integrated temperature sensor

Integrated quantized ADC

Integrated beam storage

Integrated power detection

Single-pin control for fast transmit/receive state switching

Standard 4-wire SPI control logic

WLCSP package (6.20 x 6.05 x 0.725 mm)

The GXSC beamformer uses 4-wire SPI logic for register configuration and control. It allows for the configuration of amplitude and phase for each channel, supports bias adjustment, and enables on/off control and transmit/receive switching for each channel. Additionally, the single-chip device features two address pins to enable serial control of up to four multifunction chips in an application.