Advanced Radar Technology: Voltage-Controlled SAW Oscillators

Microchip Technology has introduced a new family of Voltage-Controlled SAW Oscillators (VCSOs) designed specifically for radar applications. The Microchip 101765-320-A VCSO offers exceptional performance with ultra-low phase noise of 166 dBc at 10 kHz offset and a floor of 182 dBc. Operating at frequencies of 320 MHz and 400 MHz, these VCSOs are ideal for radar designs that require precise timing and high fidelity.

Low phase noise is a critical factor in radar and sensing applications as it directly impacts the detection capabilities of the system. Devices like the Microchip VCSOs are essential for radar and instrumentation systems, particularly Active Electronically Scanned Arrays (AESAs), where accurate phase-locked loop timing is crucial for optimal performance.

The compact VCSOs come in a hermetic Kovar package measuring 1 inch × 1 inch, making them suitable for space-constrained applications. With supply voltages ranging from 4.75V to 15.75V and a supply current of 111 mA, these devices offer a power-efficient timing solution for a variety of radar and instrumentation systems.

According to Leon Gross, corporate vice president of Microchip’s discrete products group, the company is committed to providing high-performance timing products at a competitive price point to meet the diverse needs of customers. By choosing Microchip for timing requirements, customers can benefit from a wide range of components, including FPGAs, MPUs, MCUs, RF modules, power management solutions, security features, and connectivity options.

For customers in the aerospace and defense sectors who demand utmost reliability, the 101765 VCSOs are available with MIL-PRF-38534 screening. This rigorous screening process ensures that only the most reliable components are used in critical applications, such as military and aerospace systems, where failure is not an option.

The 101765 VCSO family expands Microchip’s portfolio of SAW products tailored for aerospace and defense applications, providing high levels of reliability for mission-critical environments. These VCSOs are offered in various package options suitable for ruggedized applications and support a center frequency range from 30 MHz to 2.7 GHz. Microchip also has the capability to meet ITAR, EAR, and classified specifications for hardware to address customers’ security needs.

To facilitate testing during the design phase, Microchip offers the 101765-320-A-N-S-TB and 101765-400-B-N-S-TB test boards for the VCSO devices. The VCSO 101765-320-A and 101765-400-B models are currently available for purchase on Microchip’s website.

For more information about Microchip’s new VCSO family and other products, visit www.microchip.com.