A sub-terahertz multi-pixel imaging system with surface wave resonator for isolation

In this paper, a 135 GHz imager array of 16 pixels is developed for non-invasive biomedical or security scanning. The system consists of 4×4 of arrayed CMOS detectors and sources. Each of the source or detector pixel has an antenna for radiating or detecting millimeter-wave signal, respectively. The antenna array is built on Roger 5880 PCB substrate. The CMOS source and detector chips are developed using 65-nm CMOS technology. To minimize crosstalk due to surface wave radiation (SWR), surface wave resonators are placed between antennas for system integration. The isolation between adjacent antennas is enhanced by around 8-15 dB over frequency range of 120-140 GHz. The imager system detects the signal radiation of 60-mV, above the noise floor at the distance of 15-cm between the source and detector board.