Sascha A. Figur

Bio: Sascha A. Figur is an academic researcher. The author has contributed to research in topics: Geostationary orbit & Amplifier. The author has an hindex of 5, co-authored 10 publications receiving 68 citations.

A Satellite Multiple-Beam Antenna for High-Rate Data Relays

Abstract: This paper describes development of some key components for a demonstrator of a multiple beam antenna for high-rate data relays. The demonstrator should validate the whole antenna concept showing among others antenna multibeam capability and advantages of deployed digital beamfoming.

The low-complexity RF MEMS switch at EADS: an overview

Abstract: This paper gives an overview of the low-complexity radio frequency microelectromechanical systems (RF MEMS) switch concept and technology of EADS Innovation Works in Germany. Starting in 2003, a capacitive switch concept, which is unique in several aspects, was developed to address specific needs in the aeronautic and space. Thermally grown silicon oxide as dielectric layer, the silicon substrate as actuation electrode, and a conductive zone realized by ion implantation make the EADS RF MEMS switch a very simple, low-cost, and reliable approach. In this document, data on experimental investigations are presented, which demonstrate outstanding performance figures in terms of insertion loss, isolation, frequency range, bandwidth, RF-power handling, and robustness with respect to thermal load. Based on this concept, numerous different circuits in particular single-pole single-throws (SPSTs), single-pole multi-throws (SPMTs), tunable filters, phase shifters, and electronically steerable antennas between 6 and 100 GHz have been designed, fabricated, and characterized.

Design and characterization of a simplified planar 16×8 RF MEMS switch matrix for a GEO-stationary data relay

Abstract: This paper presents the design and measurements of a simplified design approach for a 16 × 8 switch matrix based on Radio Frequency Microelectromechanical System (RF MEMS) switches. The operational frequency range is between 25.5 GHz and 26.5 GHz for data links between a Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) relay satellite and several Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites. The switch matrix implements a key functionality for tracking the incident signals of the LEO satellites on the receive feed antenna array of the GEO satellite's reflector antenna. A maximum insertion loss of 8.5 dB, isolation of higher than 45 dB and a minimum return loss of 18 dB have been measured.

RF MEMS variable matching networks for multi-band and multi-mode GaN power amplifiers

Abstract: This work presents Radio-Frequency Microelectromechanical-System (RF MEMS) based tunable matching networks for a multi-band Gallium Nitride (GaN) power amplifier application. In the frequency range from 3.5 GHz to 8.5 GHz a return loss of 5 dB to 10 dB was measured for the input network, matching impedances close to the border of the smith chart. For the output matching network return loss of 10 dB to 20 dB and insertion loss of 1.3 dB to 2 dB were measured. The matching networks can tune the power amplifier to four different operating frequencies, as well as changing the transistor's mode of operation from maximum delivered output power to maximum Power Added Efficiency (PAE), while keeping the operating frequency constant.

Simplified 16×8 RF MEMS switch matrix for a GEO-stationary data relay

Abstract: This paper presents a simplified design approach for a 16 × 8 switch matrix based on Radio Frequency Micro-electromechanical System (RF MEMS) switches. The operational frequency range is between 25.5GHz and 26.5 GHz for data links between a Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) relay satellite and several Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites. The switch matrix implements a key functionality for tracking the incident signals of the LEO satellites on the receive feed antenna array of the GEO satellite's reflector antenna.

Cryogenic Control Architecture for Large-Scale Quantum Computing

Abstract: Solid-state qubits have recently advanced to the level that enables them, in-principle, to be scaled-up into fault-tolerant quantum computers. As these physical qubits continue to advance, meeting the challenge of realising a quantum machine will also require the engineering of new classical hardware and control architectures with complexity far beyond the systems used in today's few-qubit experiments. Here, we report a micro-architecture for controlling and reading out qubits during the execution of a quantum algorithm such as an error correcting code. We demonstrate the basic principles of this architecture in a configuration that distributes components of the control system across different temperature stages of a dilution refrigerator, as determined by the available cooling power. The combined setup includes a cryogenic field-programmable gate array (FPGA) controlling a switching matrix at 20 millikelvin which, in turn, manipulates a semiconductor qubit.

Cryogenic Control Architecture for Large-Scale Quantum Computing

Abstract: Tomorrow's much anticipated quantum computers, exotic as they may be, will require complex classical hardware for their control and operation. For solid-state quantum processors, the authors propose an efficient scheme for executing a quantum algorithm via a multicomponent classical interface. These components, which include cryogenic classical logic, are assembled to demonstrate control of a quantum-dot qubit. Thus, when the new wave of hardware finally arrives, we will be ready--and able--to use it.

Internet of things (IoT); internet of everything (IoE); tactile internet; 5G – A (not so evanescent) unifying vision empowered by EH-MEMS (energy harvesting MEMS) and RF-MEMS (radio frequency MEMS)

Abstract: This work aims to build inclusive vision of the Internet of Things (IoT), Internet of Everything (IoE), Tactile Internet and 5G, leveraging on MEMS technology, with focus on Energy Harvesters (EH-MEMS) and Radio Frequency passives (RF-MEMS). The IoT is described, stressing the pervasivity of sensing/actuating functions. High-level performances 5G will have to score are reported. Unifying vision of the mentioned paradigms is then built. The IoT evolves into the IoE by overtaking the concept of thing. Further step to Tactile Internet requires significant reduction in latency, it being enabled by 5G. The discussion then moves closer to the hardware components level. Sets of specifications driven by IoT and 5G applications are derived. Concerning the former, the attention is concentrated on typical power requirements imposed by remote wireless sensing nodes. Regarding the latter, a set of reference specifications RF passives will have to meet in order to enable 5G is developed. Once quantitative targets are set, a brief state of the art of EH-MEMS and RF-MEMS solutions is developed, targeting the IoT and 5G, respectively. In both scenarios, it will be demonstrated that MEMS are able to address the requirements previously listed, concerning EH from various sources and RF passive components. In conclusion, the frame of reference depicted in this work outlines a relevant potential borne by EH-MEMS and RF-MEMS solutions within the unified scenario of IoT, IoE, Tactile Internet and 5G, making the forecast of future relentless growth of MEMS-based devices, more plausible and likely to take place.

Beamformer for end-to-end beamforming communications system

Abstract: A method of providing a communication service to user terminals distributed over multiple forward user beam coverage areas via an end-to-end relay comprising multiple forward receive/transmit signal paths, the method comprising: obtaining multiple forward beam signals comprising forward user data streams for transmission to a plurality of the user terminals grouped by the multiple forward user beam coverage areas; identifying a forward beam weight matrix for end-to-end beamforming of transmissions from a plurality of access nodes at geographically distributed locations to the multiple forward user beam coverage areas via the end-to-end relay; generating respective access node-specific forward signals for the plurality of access nodes, each of the respective access node-specific forward signals comprising a composite of respective forward beam signals weighted by respective forward beamforming weights of the forward beam weight matrix; and distributing the respective access node-specific forward signals to the plurality of access nodes with respective forward synchronization information for compensating for respective path delays and phase shifts between the plurality of access nodes and the end-to-end relay, wherein the respective access node-specific forward signals are transmitted to the end-to-end relay for relay to the multiple forward user beam coverage areas by the plurality of access nodes at respective time domain offsets based at least in part on the respective forward synchronization information. WO 2016/209332 PCTfUS2016f026815 *00 0 cz CSN Q) cu 0 c0 (D o- HLO uU (Y) G)) 0- IC) 0IQ)

Access node for end-to-end beamforming communications system

Abstract: A method of communication at an access node of a communication system comprising a plurality of access nodes at geographically distributed locations providing a communication service to user terminals distributed over multiple forward user beam coverage areas via an end-to-end relay comprising multiple forward receive/transmit signal paths, the method comprising: obtaining an access node-specific forward signal for transmission via the end-to end relay to a plurality of the user terminals grouped by the multiple forward user beam coverage areas, the access node-specific forward signal comprising a composite of forward beam signals corresponding to a plurality of the multiple forward user beam coverage areas, the forward beam signals weighted by respective beam weights of a beam weight vector associated with the access node; identifying forward signal transmit timing information indicating transmission timing for the access node-specific forward signal; transmitting a forward uplink signal comprising the access node-specific forward signal and an access node beacon signal to the end-to-end relay, the access node-specific forward signal having the forward signal transmit timing information synchronized to corresponding transmit timing information in the access node beacon signal; receiving signaling from the end-to-end relay comprising a relay beacon signal and the access node beacon signal relayed from the end-to end relay; and adjusting the forward uplink signal to time and phase align the relayed access node beacon signal with the received relay beacon signal. WO 2016/209332 PCTfUS2016f026815 *00 0 cz CSN Q) cu 0 c0 (D o- HLO uU (Y) G)) 0- IC) 0IQ)