GXSC Amplitude-Phase Multifunctional Chip Replaces ADMV4680 for Vehicular and Maritime Satcom-on-the-Move Adaptive Beam-Tracking Antennas

With the rapid proliferation of low-earth orbit (LEO) satellite internet and global satellite communication technologies, vehicular and maritime Satcom-on-the-Move (SOTM) has become a key enabler for broadband connectivity without coverage gaps. Active electronically scanned array (AESA)-based adaptive beam-tracking antennas offer significant advantages including millisecond-level beam switching, dynamic anti-jamming capability, and compact, lightweight form factors, making them the mainstream trend for next-generation SOTM systems.

The GXSC amplitude-phase multifunctional chip, developed using advanced CMOS process technology, covers both Ku-band satellite communication receive (10.7–12.7 GHz) and transmit (14–14.5 GHz) frequency bands. It integrates 4 receive channels, 4 transmit channels, and the corresponding power combining/splitting networks, delivering a highly integrated silicon-based beamforming solution. This device serves as a drop-in performance replacement for the ADMV4680, while offering significant cost advantages in high-volume production.

Both the receive and transmit channels of the GXSC amplitude-phase multifunctional chip support independent amplitude and phase control. The phase control features 6-bit resolution, enabling 360° coverage with a minimum step of 5.6°. The amplitude control also provides 6-bit resolution, supporting a dynamic range of 31.5 dB with a minimum step of 0.5 dB. Key device characteristics are summarized below:

Receive frequency range: 10.7–12.7 GHz

Transmit frequency range: 14–14.5 GHz

Operation mode: Time-division half-duplex (TDD) for receive/transmit

RF channels: 4T4R with integrated power dividing/combining networks

Phase control: 360° range, 6-bit resolution (LSB = 5.6°)

Amplitude control: 31.5 dB range, 6-bit resolution (LSB = 0.5 dB)

On-chip integration: Bias generation and channel control logic

Integrated temperature sensor

Integrated quantization ADC

Integrated 4-channel power detector

On-chip beam storage memory

Dedicated pin for receive/transmit mode switching

Control interface: 4-wire SPI

Package: WLCSP surface-mount package

The GXSC amplitude-phase multifunctional chip is configured and controlled via a standard 4-wire SPI interface, supporting bias adjustment, individual channel on/off control, and receive/transmit mode switching. Additionally, the chip features five address pins (ADD0–ADD4) to enable serial control of up to 32 devices in a single application, facilitating scalable phased-array system designs.