STEDI

“Small user TErminal multiband DIplexers” –

ESA project for the development and space assessment of novel user terminal Ku/Ka band diplexers for space communications, ground segment (ESA/ESTEC Contract AO/1-8928/17/NL/CLP/gm).

OBJECTIVES

Goal of the project was the development, test and comparison of different technology concepts for user terminal Ku-/Ka-band diplexers using novel technologies, aiming at large-scale low-cost fabrication of RF compact filters compatible with planar and monolithic circuits. The compared technologies are Micromachining on silicon, LTCC (Low Temperature Co-fired Ceramic) and thin-film alumina.

RF Microtech (Perugia, Italy) is the prime contractor, responsible for the electro-magnetic design and test of Micromachining and LTCC designs.
SIAE Microelettronica (Milan, Italy) is involved in the electro-mechanical design and validation of SIW design.

TRL LEVEL

STATUS

Completed

RESULTS

The LTCC manufacturing process was used for the design of the SMD compliant Ka-band planar diplexer.

The integrated device offers a good trade-off between reduced volume and electric performance. Air-filled resonant cavities are fabricated within ceramic substrate to magnify the achievable Q-factor.
The mentioned diplexer could replace bulky metal cavity filters in multi-band ground terminals for satellite communications.
Fundamental mode TE₁₀₁ resonant cavities and ridge structures are built exploiting novel fabrication concepts in LTCC technology. The designed component tailors the Ka-band 19.7-21.2 GHz (Rx) and 29.5-31 GHz (Tx) operative bandwidths.