Commercial GaAs MMIC applications

It is pointed out that the future of the GaAs MMIC (monolithic microwave integrated circuit) industry is in the commercial sector. There is a cornucopia of high volume applications, such as DBS (direct broadcast satellite) cellular telephone, PCM (pulse code modulation), fiber optics, and GPS (Global Positioning System) that are targets for cost-effective GaAs MMIC solutions. It is concluded that the key to success is the ability to produce functional circuits in high volume at low cost. To be successful takes a shift in emphasis from low volume, high-selling-price 'jewelry' applications, to the rigors and discipline of high volume manufacture.<
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