Ka-band ICs

TUSK IC introduces the TUSK-BC1103-AC (transmit beamformer), TUSK-BC2103-AC (receive beamformer), and TUSK-LN0101-AC (LNA).

Our 8-channel Ka-band beamformer ICs have been designed for next-generation satellite user terminals. Both devices feature 360° phase control (<5.625° resolution) and a 31 dB gain tuning range with 6-bit resolution, enabling precise beam steering and tapering in phased array antennas. Each IC supports up to 128 programmable beam states, ensuring robust LEO satellite tracking with low power consumption.

Fabricated in widely available 300 mm bulk CMOS technology, TUSK IC beamformers are compact, efficient, and production-ready — delivering performance, reliability, and ease of adaptation to new terminals and use cases in the rapidly growing New Space market.

Key features of our Satcoms ICs

TUSK-BC1103-AC

Full Ka-band Transmit Beam Former (BF) IC, integrates power amplifiers, with on-chip signal combining, gain calibration, and SPI control.
  • Tx Beam Former IC with 8-channels
  • Operating from 27.5 GHz to 31 GHz
  • 360° phase control with < 5.625° resolution
  • Gain range of 33dB with 6-bit resolution
  • Low power consumption, with additional low power mode for battery powered applications
  • SPI interface and RAM Memory

TUSK-BC2103-AC

Ka-band receive BF IC, with optimized input reflection, and on-chip combining for high-sensitivity receive paths.
  • Rx Beam Former IC with 8-channels
  • Operating from 17.7GHz to 21.2GHz
  • 360° phase control with < 5.625° resolution
  • Gain tuning range of 31 dB with 6-bit resolution
  • Low power consumption, with additional low power mode for battery powered applications
  • SPI interface and RAM memory

TUSK-LN0101-AC

A dual channel Low Noise Amplifier (LNA) operating between 17.7 GHz and 21.2 GHz, for use with the TxBFIC-1103. Each LNA channel features the noise figure as low as 1.5dB with 20dB gain across the band. At a fixed target G/T, the choice for a separate LNA reduces the number of BFIC’s needed and provides for a best-in-class NF for the signal path at the lowest cost per channel.

  • Dual channel LNA IC operating from 17.7GHz to 21.2GHz
  • Noise figure of 1.5dB with 20dB gain
  • Low power consumption, with additional low power mode for battery powered applications
  • Input and output return loss above 10 dB across the band
  • Integrated dual output Analog-Test-Bus