Workshops

Workshop Infineon: SiGe BiCMOS Technology and Circuits for mm-Wave Applications like Future High-Resolution Radar

Abstract: In this workshop the latest developments of Infineon Technologies in SiGe BiCMOS technology, modeling and design system for mm-wave applications are discussed. Circuit examples suited for high-performance automotive radar systems are shown. The first talk presents Infineon´s next generation SiGe BiCMOS technology B12HFC. By integrating an innovative SiGe HBT device with maximum oscillation frequency of 500 GHz in a 90 nm CMOS platform, B12HFC significantly surpasses the high-frequency performance of technologies available in production today and improves the integration capabilities. In the next presentation the work on device characterization and modelling and the process design kit for the new technology are described. A comprehensive design system supports all important methods and tools needed for complex mm-wave circuit design. The third talk shows the results of the development of a 76-81 GHz power amplifier for automotive radar systems. In combination with existing SiGe or CMOS transceivers, this component enables the realization of scalable high-performance radar systems with superior resolution at low power consumption. The final presentation shows concepts and circuit results for radar systems beyond 100 GHz. Due to the good RF-performance of SiGe BiCMOS and the large bandwidth available in these frequency ranges, radar systems with outstanding performance will be possible in low-cost silicon-based technologies in future supporting the trend towards autonomous driving. Additionally, other application areas in high frequency ranges and with similar requirements, e.g. in communication or industrial sensing, will profit from the availability of such technologies.

Workshop IHP: IHP Photonic SiGe BiCMOS Technology for Broadband Integrated Communication Circuits

Abstract: The Workshop delivers firsthand information and opportunities for discussions about IHP's technologies, services and integrated circuits. IHP`s offerings are very suitable for demanding applications such as wireless and broadband communication, medical technology, aerospace, mobility, wireless security, and industrial automation. Its electronic and photonic-electronic technologies and circuits are among the most advanced in the world. In the speed of silicon-based transistors, IHP holds the world record with 720 GHz maximum oscillation frequency. The institute has a pilot line that manufactures circuits using its high-performance SiGe BiCMOS technologies. These technologies together with additional modules are available as a service offer for MPW and small series for science and industry. The organization of ASIC manufacturing service including available Design Kits, Design Flows and schedules will be presented it the first talk. The second talk will present two different optoelectronic receivers in SG25H5 EPIC technology. The workshop will conclude with live demonstration of a monolithic broadband opto-electronic coherent receiver.

Workshop Keysight 1: Automotive Radar Millimeter Wave Microstrip Patch Array Antenna Simulations

Abstract: This workshop presents a corporate-fed microstrip patch antenna array EM simulation performed in Keysight ADS RFPro for millimeter-wave automotive radar applications. The 4×4 antenna array design is envisioned for operation in the long-range radar (LRR) band of 76-77 GHz. ADS RFPro enables automatic expert setting EM simulations leading to efficient use of computational resources and reduced simulation times. Finite Element Method (FEM) solver is used for simulation of the antenna array. Scalability of design and simulation using RFPro is also demonstrated.

Workshop Keysight 2: Modern Methods of Wideband Modulation Test for 5G and 6G Components

Abstract: Recent requirements for characterizing components such as amplifiers, frequency converters, digital-to-RF transceivers and other components for 5G and 6G systems have pushed test methods to, and beyond, their limits. This workshop introduces modern methods of testing components for wideband modulation; precision source signal-generation and precision measurements using Vector Signal Analysis (VSA) software for demodulation and evaluation of component contributions to channel response, error-vector-magnitude (EVM) and Adjacent Channel Power Ratio (ACPR) are presented. Methods that include test system pre-distortion of signal generators and drive amplifiers, precise and traceable calibration of vector receivers, and the use of advanced noise reduction techniques are presented, with practical applications including digital-pre-distortion (DPD) evaluation of high-efficiency amplifiers, for 5G use. Extension to sub-THz (D-band) frequencies are described with some examples shown.

Workshop SIMUSERV: Antenna, Antenna Array and Microwave Filter Design with SIMULIA CST Studio Suite®

Abstract: Antennas, Antenna Arrays and Microwave Filters are the basic building blocks of any wireless communication network. In this workshop, we will show the dedicated workflows in SIMULIA CST Studio Suite to handle the full complexity of complete antenna systems with the focus on 5G antenna arrays and filter design. In some live demos we will share the latest improvements in CST Studio Suite 2022 for the design and simulation of antenna arrays, antenna placement, mmWave antennas and the 3D model build automation for cavity filters. The latest improvements in CSTs state-of-the art solver technology including time domain, frequency domain, integral equations and asymptotic techniques and supporting solutions like Filter3D and Antenna Magus will be discussed.

Workshop Rohde & Schwarz Part I: The path towards 6G: from millimeter waves to THz

Abstract: Research activities in academia and industry worldwide towards the 6th generation (6G) mobile communication system have recently considerably gained momentum. In this introduction we will provide an overview of the anticipated 6G timeline and technology concepts which have to fulfil even more stringent requirements in comparison to 5G, such as ultra-high data rates, energy efficiency, global coverage and connectivity as well as extremely high reliability and low latency.
One of the 6G technologies are sub-Terahertz and terahertz (THz) waves which have frequencies extending from 0.1 THz up to 10 THz and fall in the spectral region between microwave and optical waves. The prospect of offering large contiguous frequency bands to meet the demand for highest data transfer rates up to the terabit/sec range make it a key research area of 6G mobile communication. In light of the approaching ITU WRC23, academic and industrial research is striving to demonstrate the feasibility of this frequency region for communication. This workshop highlights the required interdisciplinary approach, with close interaction of high-frequency semiconductor technology for RF electronics but also including alternative approaches using photonic technologies. The THz region also shows great promise for many applications areas ranging from imaging to spectroscopy and sensing.
To fully exploit the potential of the new frequency ranges it is also crucial to understand the propagation characteristics for the development of the future communication standards by performing channel measurements. We will highlight the characteristics of channel propagation in this frequency region and present new results from channel measurements at 158 GHz and 300 GHz.

Workshop Rohde & Schwarz Part II: Modern RF frontend design and testing

Abstract: 5G is here and we are all starting to look what comes next. But what does this mean for the RF frontend? The current focus around 5G is on improving systems and enhancing them with mmWave. This drives the integration of components and creation of more efficient designs to minimize the form factor, improve energy efficiency and thereby drive overall costs down. Multifunction RF components such as beamformers are used in 5G mmWave as well as in satellite communications and defense applications. 6G will bring most likely the next big change while jumping beyond 100 GHz. Which technologies will support this? Basic research on system level as well as on possible semiconductor technologies is ongoing today and we will have a look, how to tackle these challenges as we are moving on in expanding 5G and preparing the next step to 6G.