High volume manufacturing of a high-efficiency X-band power module for phased array applications

Describes the production of a state-of-the-art microwave power module for use in active aperture phased-array radar transmit/receive modules. This is a nominally 5-W, 30% efficient X-band module. More than 2000 modules have been manufactured to date at rates exceeding 100 modules per week. The production process is described in detail, with particular attention given to the issues relating to large-volume manufacturing of microwave power circuits.<>