HTS filter subsystems for wireless telecommunications

After many years of research and development, HTS filter subsystems for telecommunications are finally being manufactured in volume. Nearly 1,000 HTS filter subsystems are currently deployed worldwide with millions of hours of cumulative operation. An overview of the worldwide effort to commercialize HTS filter subsystems is presented. The essential technology elements required to manufacture HTS filter subsystems are discussed i.e., filters, cryogenic low-noise amplifiers, advanced cryopackaging, cryocoolers and control electronics. Currently sales of HTS filter subsystems are limited to existing analog and digital telephony networks. Planned third generation (3G) systems for wireless telephony and data communications require higher receiver performance to maintain high data rates with even lower-power handsets. The deployment of HTS filter subsystems in these 3G networks may be an excellent opportunity to achieve greater market penetration. Selected results of field trials of HTS filter subsystems are also presented.