Multi-channel module design for mobile satellite communications

This paper is concerned with the design of the K-band multi-channel module for mobile satellite communications which is a key unit of the active phased array antenna system. This module is composed of 4 individual channels having same structure for receiving part. To electrically control the antenna beam direction and pattern shaping, 5-bit MMIC phase shifters and variable attenuators including other active and passive components are included in receiving channel. Using the proposed module structure, the size and the weight of the antenna system can be considerably minimized.