Otava plans to develop an integrated RF (radio frequency) front-end for a highly effective dual band concept supporting FR3 (frequency range) deployments that include simultaneous use of both bands…

The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) awarded a $9,974,504.03 Project Grant to Otava Inc. under the Public Wireless Supply Chain Innovation Fund Grant Program (CFDA 11.038) to develop an integrated RF front-end for a highly effective dual-band concept supporting FR3 deployments. The project, which runs from February 1, 2025 to January 31, 2029, will involve Otava collaborating with Rutgers University's WINLAB to design, build, and test two iterations of ICs for the front-end module and beamformer. The expected outcome is to accelerate the deployment of commercial radios for the FR3 frequency range and give the U.S. a leadership position in mobile broadband services. The grant program aims to foster competition and innovation in the telecommunications ecosystem by supporting the development of open and interoperable wireless network technologies.

Activities

Otava plans to engage with mobile network operators and RU equipment suppliers and explore the options available to architect the overall antenna array and sub-arrays. Otava will design, build and test two spins of ICS for the front-end module and beamformer. The project will use SOI (signal operating instruction) for most of the front end modulee circuitry and use global area network for the PA output stage.

Expected outcomes

The approach will accelerate the deployment of commercial radios for the important FR3 frequency range and give the US a leadership position in mobile broadband services.

Intended beneficiaries

United states 5G and 6G providers.

Subrecipient activities

Winlab at rutgers university will contribute to the project by conducting antenna testing critical to the success of the project.