A transmit-receive module pair from Endwave operates over the E-band frequency spectrum from 71.0 GHz to 86.0 GHz. These modules enable broadband point-to-point radios to carry voice and data traffic at multi-Gbps rates.

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The typical performance of Endwave’s transmit module includes a conversion gain of 15 dB and an output power of 16 dBm, with an integrated power detector on the Tx output. Higher-power transmitter options are also available upon request. Endwave’s E-band receiver provides a noise figure of 9 dB, better than 25 dB of RF-to-IF conversion gain, and a P1dB value of -25 dBm.

Separate models cover the 71 GHz to 76 GHz and 81 GHz to 86 GHz operating bands. Both the Tx and Rx modules use an MLMS sub-harmonic mixer topology that provides a single level of conversion direct from E-Band to IF. This architecture significantly reduces the cost of the local oscillator (LO) circuit chain relative to the costs of comparable fundamental mixer approaches. Other custom options including the addition of customized VCO-based synthesizers to drive the up-conversion and down-conversion processes in the Tx and Rx modules, respectively.

Both the Tx and Rx modules employ MLMS technology and Epsilon Packaging technology in a single RF subsystem solution. Epsilon packaging enables mixed chip-on-board and SMT on a single printed circuit structure, and both modules have an on-board microcontroller for software-controlled compensation.

E-band radio links offer an alternative to terrestrial fiber optic cable in a variety of commercial, military applications. The advantages of wireless E-band links versus wired fiber-optic solutions include substantially lower deployment costs, deployment speeds that are measured in days (rather than months, or even a year for fiber), and reduced regulatory and environmental approval burdens.