Distributed power amplifier architecture for TCAS transmitter
AssigneeHoneywell International Inc.
InventorsRand Ringwald, Ruy L. Brandao, Ruy C. Brandao, James B. Jones, Dang Pham
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A transmitter and method for transmitting transponder or TCAS signals uses linear amplification to save on circuit component weight, cost and size while enabling precise amplification and control of the transmitted signal.
Claims24
A method for amplifying one of a transponder or TCAS signals for subsequent transmission through a phased-array antenna, the method comprising the steps of:
- receiving one of a transponder or TCAS signal to be transmitted;
- splitting the signal into a plurality of signals, each on a distinct signal line;
- passing each signal through a plurality of amplifiers arranged in series on the signal line;
- phase delaying each of the signals suitably to energize an element of a phased-array antenna;
- and
- using a control signal to control a power level of said plurality of amplifiers whereby a total amplification of said signal is determined.
An amplifier stage for a TCAS transmitter comprising:
- an input for receiving a TCAS signal to be transmitted;
- a signal splitter configured to split the TCAS signal received at the input into a plurality of split signals, each of the split signals having a phase;
- a phase shifter configured to shift the phase of each of the split signals such that the split signals have a suitable phase to energize a phased-array antenna;
- a plurality of amplifiers arranged in series for amplifying said TCAS signal;
- and
- a controller coupled to at least one of said plurality of amplifiers for controlling a power level of said amplifier.
An amplifier stage for a transponder transmitter comprising:
- an input for receiving a signal to be transmitted;
- a signal splitter configured to split the signal received at the input into a plurality of split signals, each of the split signals having a phase;
- a phase shifter configured to shift the phase of each of the split signals such that the split signals have a suitable phase to energize a phased-array antenna;
- a plurality of amplifiers arranged in series for amplifying said signal;
- and
- a controller coupled to at least one of said plurality of amplifiers for controlling a power level of said amplifier.
A TCAS transmitter for transmitting a TCAS signal from an airborne phased-array antenna comprising:
- an input for receiving a TCAS signal to be transmitted;
- a power splitter for splitting said TCAS signal onto a plurality of signal lines;
- a phase shifter on each signal line introducing a distinct phase-delay;
- a plurality of linear amplifiers arranged in series on each of said signal lines;
- a controller coupled to at least one said plurality of amplifiers for controlling a power level of said amplifier;
- and
- an output wherein said signal lines are coupled to the antenna.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.