A 12bit dual ADC for use in phased array and MIMO systems

Phased array and MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) radar systems are being developed with greater number of channels to achieve more flexibility, speed and range. Each channel contains either an ADC (Analog to Digital Converter) - for a receiver channel - or a DAC (Digital to Analog Converter) - for a transmission channel. This type of system has a number of challenges: - The high speed data interface needs to be optimum and efficient; All channels should be easily synchronised; The down conversion element adds to system cost and complexity; Beam-forming time delay circuits also add complexity. This paper describes a new ADC which addresses each of these issues. Some initial results from the ADC are presented.