Massive Cross Correlation (MAX)

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency seeks proposals through its Massive Cross Correlation program to develop correlators with high power efficiency, high dynamic range, and wide bandwidth. The correlators must be implemented in 22nm CMOS or below, achieving 100 times better performance per watt than a state-of-the-art digital FPGA, with sample rates of 5 GSPS, power under 10W, size under 1.7" x 1.7" x 0.25", and operating temperatures from -55C to 125C. Proposals are due May 4, 2022 and must demonstrate the proposed correlator in three phases culminating in a final demonstration. Evaluation will be based on achieving the stated power efficiency and performance metrics.

There is no set-aside designation. The primary NAICS code is 541712 and PSC code is R425. Awards are expected to range from $1-5M per year over one to three years, depending on the technical area and phase addressed, with approximately $49M allocated for Technical Area 1 and $6M for Technical Area 2. The program seeks to fund up to three awards to develop correlators enabling passive sensing, real-time SAR imaging, and jam-resistant communications applications.