Single chip FMCW radar for target velocity and range sensing applications

A novel low-power frequency-modulated continuous-wave (FMCW) radar MMIC (monolithic microwave integrated circuit) chip has been demonstrated. It incorporates an electronic circulator in order to allow single antenna operation in miniature low-cost applications. All the microwave functions necessary for an FMCW radar operating at C-band are integrated on a single GaAs integrated circuit, including VCO, buffer amplifier, mixer, and the electronic circulator. The chip dimensions are 1.08*2.15*0.25 mm. The high level of integration is achieved by means of a low-cost 1- mu m MESFET foundry process without the use of via hole grounding. Self-bias circuitry is included on chip so that a single positive power supply is required. Potential applications include miniature range and velocity discriminating fuzes, sensors and alarms, and altimeter circuits.<>