Processing of high-power signals such as sonar and radar beams requires components capable of handling high levels of heat. That's what the U.S. Navy hopes to receive in return for a $1.2 million research and development (R&D) contract to Verus Research.
The 18-month contract is a Phase II Small Business Innovative Research contract from the Navy’s Strategic Systems Programs (SSP) office. The goal is to develop cost-effective, plasma-based tunable impedance elements to forge practical high-frequency, high-power electromagnetic (EM) components, such as antennas and switches, that can be used over a wide range of operating environments.
“We are honored to receive this contract from the U.S. Navy’s Strategic Systems Programs office,” said Dr. J. Mark DelGrande, Chief Technology Officer at Verus Research. “Our work with the U. S. Navy’s SSP office gives Verus Research the opportunity to further progress our latest technological designs and developments to meet emerging Navy needs.” The contract will aid Verus Research in building upon its plasma-based technology for the development of a broadband microwave limiter switch with nanosecond response times.
Verus Research brings a unique mix of expertise in high-power systems, including the equipment and knowledge to perform accurate measurements of the radiation effects of high-power systems. It also provides the skills to create realistic RF/microwave end-user environments through the design and development of customized electronic targets and target systems along with specialized target control software.