Mixed-function integration
Sources, converters, filters, amplifiers, and control functions can be combined where the application benefits from one packaged unit.
INTEGRATED MICROWAVE ASSEMBLIES
Custom Integrated Microwave Assemblies for Complete RF Subsystems
Microsource integrated microwave assemblies bring multiple RF functions together into one packaged subsystem when the application needs fewer interfaces, more customization, and a clearer implementation path.
This is where Microsource's custom-engineering strength shows up most clearly: combining standard product building blocks and program-specific design work into one delivered subsystem.
Product overview
Operational overview
What an integrated assembly is
A packaged subsystem that combines multiple RF and microwave functions into one coordinated hardware solution rather than leaving them as separate modules.
How it is used
Typically when the program needs fewer interfaces, a tighter mechanical envelope, or a cleaner path from requirement to deployable subsystem.
Why it is used
- Reduces separate-box integration burden
- Lets the RF chain be packaged around the real mission need
- Supports mixed-function builds where signal-chain coordination matters more than one isolated part
Subsystem integration
Why integrate the chain
When the platform needs a packaged solution instead of separate modules, an integrated assembly can reduce interface complexity and make the signal chain easier to qualify.
Combines related microwave functions into a single assembly
Reduces interface burden between separate boxes or modules
Can be tailored to the signal chain, environment, and platform constraints
Helpful when the application is more about system fit than a single component
The best results come from defining the signal chain early, then deciding which standard functions can be reused and which parts of the subsystem need true custom engineering.
Capabilities
What an integrated assembly should solve
The goal is not simply to place parts on one enclosure. It is to reduce system friction and make the RF path easier to deploy.
Interface reduction
Fewer separate modules can mean fewer mechanical and electrical handoffs to manage during integration.
Application-specific packaging
The housing, connectors, and internal arrangement are selected around the actual platform requirement.
Program-focused support
These assemblies are typically built to support a defined program or subsystem need rather than a generic catalog form factor.
Because these builds are custom by nature, the specification should start with the desired chain behavior and end with the packaging decision.
Applications
Where integrated assemblies make sense
This category is most useful when the platform owner wants one subsystem rather than a collection of stand-alone microwave parts.
Radar subsystems
Useful when the source, translation, and conditioning stages need to live together inside a tighter package.
EW and SIGINT platforms
Appropriate when a system needs more coordination between RF functions than discrete modules can provide.
Communications payloads
Can help align RF performance, packaging, and integration requirements inside a compact assembly.
Custom defense programs
A fit for program-specific requirements where the end result must be built as one deployed subsystem.
Representative evaluation points
What matters most when the subsystem is custom
Integrated assemblies are less about one universal performance table and more about forcing the right decisions to happen together: functions, interfaces, environment, and acceptance strategy.
| Parameter | Representative value |
|---|---|
| Subsystem objective | |
| Typical role | Combine multiple RF functions into one deployable package |
| Most common drivers | Interface reduction, mechanical consolidation, and coordinated RF behavior |
| What to define | |
| Function mix | Which sources, converters, filters, amplifiers, and controls belong inside the same unit |
| Interface count | What should remain external versus integrated into the assembly |
| Acceptance plan | How the full subsystem will be verified as one delivered unit |
| Program fit | |
| Environment | Temperature, vibration, screening, and deployment expectations for the full assembly |
Because these are application-specific assemblies, final electrical and environmental behavior should always be defined against the approved subsystem architecture.
Hardware
Subsystem packaging context
Integrated assemblies are judged by how effectively they reduce interface friction while preserving RF performance. Housing design, connector placement, and internal partitioning should all reflect the subsystem intent.
- Mechanical architecture should be driven by the full set of internal functions, not just one dominant module.
- RF, control, and power interfaces should be defined together to reduce late integration churn.
- Internal arrangement should support shielding, serviceability, and repeatable assembly.
- Acceptance configuration should validate the packaged subsystem as the customer will use it.
System integration
How assemblies reduce subsystem friction
Integrated microwave assemblies sit at the system level, so the diagram is less about one signal translation and more about combining several functions into one coordinated package.
- Start with the mission function and let that drive what lives inside the assembly.
- Keep the internal RF chain and the external interface set aligned from the beginning.
- Treat packaging, acceptance, and supportability as part of the subsystem design.
Representative integrated-assembly context
Packaging
Integration notes
Integrated assemblies are normally defined by the full program envelope, interface count, and environmental expectations.
- Single-assembly mechanical and electrical architecture
- RF, control, and power interfaces defined together
- Environmental and screening expectations set by the program
- Acceptance criteria tied to the full subsystem behavior
Treat the assembly as a system design problem first and a packaging problem second.
Related solutions
Use the building blocks
Integrated assemblies are often built from the same component families already used elsewhere on the site.
Next step
Need multiple microwave functions packaged as one assembly?
Share the required functions, interfaces, and operating environment so Microsource can evaluate a practical integrated approach.