Energy efficient adaptive front-ends for fixed wireless access and 5G NR-U in the 57-71 GHz frequency band.

Purpose and goal

The project´s objective is to conduct research, develop, implement and characterize a new generation of adaptive 60 GHz CMOS power amplifiers with better performance, which are more energy efficient than current BiCMOS solutions. The project targets a global market with a large growth potential among traditional broadband providers, in addition to new market segments made possible by AI/ML. Chalmers and Sivers Semiconductors contribute with complementary strengths in mm-Wave power amplifier design, market, and applications.

Expected effects and result

Sivers Wireless AB, a subsidiary to Sivers Semiconductors, and Chalmers University of Technology will collaborate in research and development of a new generation of CMOS power amplifiers for the 60-GHz mm-Wave band. The project aims to make today´s integrated radio circuits for license-free 60-GHz broadband access and 5G NR-U from Sivers Semiconductors more competitive, energy-efficient and cost-effective by applying research results in low-cost and high-volume CMOS technology, while contributing to world class research.

Planned approach and implementation

The work will be carried out on several fronts. The amplifier design itself will proceed from a black-box methodology rather than from predefined topologies. Challenges emerge from the use of the amplifier in phased antenna arrays and densely integrated electronic circuits affect each other electrically as well as thermally. The amplifiers must be able to adapt to varying conditions, while requirements on signal quality and suppression of distortion products limit the usable range of adaption. The performance of the power amplifier designs will be evaluated with such usage in mind.