Radiation aspects and performance of GaN power converters and RFICs for airborne and space applications

The paper discusses advances of testing GaN on Si switches for MHz-power-converter technologies for satellite applications. Radiation testing is discussed for technologies operated up to 600V for power conversion suitable for compact power converter designs. Promising results have been obtained with respect of radiation stability for GaN switches on Si substrates. Further GaN mm-wave PA technologies suitable for up to Eband communication links and space-born tube drivers are demonstrated with the space-specific technology requirements incorporated for packaging while maintaining the performances. Further, representative Mm-wave RF-MMIC designs operating at E-band are being discussed for operation between 70 and 84 GHz based on this technology. With the advances in reliability demonstrated in parallel these circuits become relevant for space operation.