MICROWAVE MULTICHIP MODULES

Multichip modules are important to the advancement of modem high-perfo rmance radar, communication, and navigation systems. Besides improved electrical performance, these modules offer reductions in weight, enha nced thermal and mechanical characteristics, and improved reliability. With the growing need for smaller, lighter electronics for spaceborne and defense applications, the Applied Physics Laboratory is using sta te-of-the-art design software, materials, and microelectronics fabrica tion techniques to build multichip modules for advanced microwave appl ications. This article describes two of these applications: a 14-GHz t ransmit and receive module and a 32-GHz active antenna array. These ad vanced design and packaging initiatives have demonstrated the dramatic reductions in size and weight that their application to modem electro nics systems can achieve.