X-Band Quad Transmit Receive Module (QTRM)
Quad T/R Modules: Common Building Blocks for E-Scan & AESA Radar System Solutions
Spectrum Control's Quad Transmit Receive Module, or QTRM, solutions for AESA/E-Scan radar applications offer a unique and innovative solution to system integrators and prime contractors seeking a high performance, high level transmit/receive solution for the development of active antenna array systems and sub-systems.
In support of ease of integration and reducing development time to market, Spectrum Control has developed an approach that supports a LRU (Line Replaceable Unit) for the AESA AAAU (Active Antenna Array Unit) platforms which allows for a ‘common module’ building approach for ease of system integration, first line repair and reduced cost of ownership.
- Naval Radar / Marine Radar
- Airborne Radar
- Ground-based Radar
- Vehicle-mounted Radar
- Air Traffic Control Radar
- Tactical Data Links including SATCOM on the MOVE
- E-Scan & Satcom Applications
- RS485 Half-Duplex, 5.0 Mbps serial data bus for control and monitoring.
- DSP externally programmable via JTAG
- TX output power, HPA temperature, operating current and power supply health monitored and reported on request
- Positive supplies inhibited (with the exception of the digital control circuits) if negative supply is lost
- Direction cosines used for beam steering
- 4-bit array address code giving up to 16 QTRM sub-array (64- element array)
- TRM’s respond to individual address or broadcast messages.
- Module position assignment
- Ability to schedule up to 16 phase & amplitude settings for rapid execution.
- Array CAL allows end-user to add additional TRU phase & amplitude calibration.
- Read-back of set phase & amplitude values for each TRU.
- Selection of internal/external Clock source.
QTRM - Quad Transmit Receive Module (4-Channel T/R Module)
Spectrum Control's Quad Transmit Receive Module is comprised of four T/R channels and associated DC and control electronics, with built-in factory calibration, thus providing a line replaceable unit for the array.
The quad configuration provides the optimum building block to meet most aperture requirements whilst providing efficient use of local DC and control functionality.
The technologies used allow for a highly integrated electronic assembly to be realized, providing cost-effective medium to high-volume manufacture.
The factory calibration of each QTRM allows modules to be interchanged regardless of their position within the array.
Additional calibration can be set and stored within the QTRM by the integrator to allow for external system offsets.
Quad T/R Modules for Systems Integration
Using a Line Replaceable Unit (LRU) approach, Spectrum Control has developed a ‘common module’ building approach that streamlines system integration, simplifies repair, and reduces the cost of ownership of AESA / e-scan array / e-scan radar platforms.
For this 'common module' building approach, we have chosen a QTRM (Quad Transmit Receive Module) as the ‘common module.’ Available as either a standalone solution or as part of Spectrum Control's Active Antenna Array Unit (AAAU) product, the QTRM can be integrated into phased array antenna applications, serving as a stackable building block as part of an antenna sub-array. This stacked approach facilitates ease of configuration and field repair of radar units.
Available in various bands and product configurations, our Quad Transmit Receive Module forms the main element of an AESA radar system.
Advanced Phased Array Development
This product offering from RF2M Microwave provides the means to experiment with X-band phased array radar and to further develop a 2-D radar by stacking Planks up to eight deep.
Reduced Radar System Development Time
This product significantly reduces development time allowing customers to focus their valuable resources on radar signal processing and beam control.
Full Engineering & Development
Spectrum Control welcomes the opportunity to work with customers during their product development by providing technical support to customise and active antenna array solution.