Analysis and design techniques for GaAs MMIC circuits for space applications= Técnicas de análisis y diseño de circuitos MMIC basados en transistores PHEMT de AsGa para aplicaciones espaciales

Resumen

The present work has been conceived with two main objectives in mind. The first one being to summarize part of the research and development activities carried out at the Department of Communication Engineering at the University of Cantabria in the field of GaAs Monolithic Microwave Wave Integrated Circuits (MMICs) design and implementation. This thesis presents in fact many newly developed MMICs covering the implementation of diverse functions and applications. All the circuits are described in detail together with the associated design flow, with emphasis both on its theoretical justification and its practical application. The second objective is to serve as a guide and a supporting tool for future designs with the aim of facilitating the work of the MMIC designer, by presenting in detail the approach followed to ensure the correct functionality of the implemented circuits. Some new analysis methodologies will be also proposed with the potential to simplify and speed-up the design of complex circuits to ease and make more reliable the work of the microwave circuit designer in support of a first-time-right MMIC implementation. The Thesis covers both scientific and technological aspects with direct industrial application in the space sector. Part of the developed technologies and designs, assembly and characterization information have been in fact transferred to the space industry in order to manufacture and commercialize a new generation of S-Band Transponder currently in use in more than 10 space missions.