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Millimetre-Wave Goes Mainstream: Farran at EuCAP 2026

  Every year, the European Conference on Antennas and Propagation (EuCAP) brings together the world’s foremost researchers, engineers, and technology companies to share ideas, present breakthroughs, and take stock of where the field is headed. This year’s landmark 20th edition of EuCAP was held in Dublin, Ireland, making it particularly meaningful for the Farran Technology team. As a Cork-based company with nearly five decades of millimetre-wave antenna measurement expertise, attending Europe’s premier antennas and propagation conference on home soil was more than just a networking opportunity.   Millimetre-Wave Is No Longer a Niche — It Is the Core One of the clearest signals from EuCAP 2026 was the sheer volume of attention directed at millimetre-wave. Approximately 45% of papers presented at the conference were focused on mm-wave devices and systems, a figure that speaks volumes about the direction of both research and commercial interest. “Millimetre-wave technologies are clearly becoming mainstream within the antenna community. This level of concentration suggests mm-wave is no longer a niche topic, but a core enabler for next-generation communications, sensing, radar and high-capacity satellite links.” — Tomasz Waliwander, CEO, Farran Technology This is a significant development. For years, millimetre-wave occupied a specialised corner of the RF world — high-performance, high-cost, and often confined to defence, space, and research applications. What EuCAP 2026 demonstrated is that this is changing rapidly. The historic barriers around cost, packaging, signal loss, and manufacturability are steadily being overcome, driven by the twin pressures of 5G/6G rollout and the explosion of sensing applications in automotive, satellite, and industrial sectors. From Design to Deployment: The Manufacturing Imperative Beyond the volume of mm-wave research, a second trend was equally telling: the growing emphasis on manufacturability, measurement, and real-world deployment. A strong presence of industrial exhibitors and conference sessions focused on OTA testing, advanced packaging, materials, and measurement systems pointed to a fundamental shift in where the hard problems now lie. The question is no longer simply “can we design it?” — it is “can we build it, package it, test it, and scale it reliably?” “This reflects growing market demand for deployable hardware rather than laboratory prototypes. For SMEs and specialist manufacturers, this is a major opportunity.” — Tomasz Waliwander, CEO, Farran Technology This is precisely the space Farran occupies. We are not a pure research house, nor a large-scale consumer manufacturer. We are a specialist precision engineering company with deep expertise in taking millimetre-wave technology from design intent to reliable, calibrated, deployable hardware. EuCAP 2026 confirmed that the market is moving firmly in our direction. What Customers Are Asking For Our applications engineer, Courage Mudzingwa and Head of Sales, Tom Scanlon,  spent quality time at the stand speaking directly with engineers and system designers. The conversations were clear and consistent across both groups. There is strong and growing demand for E-band (60–90 GHz) and D-band (110–170 GHz) antenna extenders — corresponding to waveguide bands WR-12 and WR-06 respectively — as well as antenna positioners for far-field measurement systems. The interest in these specific bands is not coincidental. It reflects the broader industry shift identified by our CEO: as R&D and commercial programmes move toward mm-wave for the fundamental benefits it delivers — greater bandwidth, higher capacity, and faster data transfer rates — the need for precise, reliable measurement hardware in these bands follows directly. WR-12 and WR-06 are where the real engineering work is happening right now, and where the demand for trusted test solutions is most acute. Beyond product enquiries, our Head of Sales noted a consistently positive response to Farran’s new frequency extender enclosure designs. Visitors commented on the compact form factor and enclosure aesthetics of our FEV frequency extension heads for VNAs — feedback that matters. As mm-wave hardware moves from laboratory settings into production and deployment environments, physical design becomes as important as electrical performance. Smaller, better-engineered enclosures are not cosmetic improvements; they are practical enablers of system integration. Looking Ahead EuCAP 2026 was a landmark event — not just because of its anniversary, but because of what it signalled about the state of the industry. Millimetre-wave is mainstream. Measurement and manufacturability are as strategically important as electromagnetic design. And the demand for trusted, specialist hardware partners has never been greater. Farran Technology has been at the forefront of millimetre-wave innovation for nearly 50 years. We leave Dublin energised by what we heard, and focused on what comes next.   Explore our AET/AER Antenna Measurement Frequency Extenders, our FEV Frequency Extension Heads for VNAs, and our full Test & Measurement product range or speak directly with our applications team to discuss your measurement requirements.  

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Why Your Antenna Test Setup Is Quietly Failing You at mmWave Frequencies

The test infrastructure that carried engineers through 4G and early 5G is showing its age — and most labs haven’t noticed yet. There’s a quiet crisis playing out in RF test labs around the world. Engineers are running the same test methodologies they’ve used for years, on equipment that served them well through previous wireless generations, and getting results they half-trust on devices that operate at frequencies their tools were never designed to reach. Nobody is sounding alarm bells because the problem doesn’t announce itself with a dramatic failure. It creeps in — a radiation pattern that looks slightly off, a gain measurement that seems plausible but can’t be fully trusted, a compliance test that passes on the bench and surprises in the field. By the time the issue becomes obvious, the cost in time, re-spins, and credibility is already significant. The root of the problem is straightforward: millimeter wave antenna testing is fundamentally different from anything that came before it, and the industry’s test infrastructure hasn’t fully caught up.   The World Has Changed. Most Test Labs Haven’t. For most of wireless history, testing an antenna was conceptually simple. You connected a cable to a port, ran your measurements with a vector network analyser, and characterised the device under test. The antenna and the radio circuitry were separate enough that you could evaluate them independently. This worked well from VHF through 4G, through sub-6 GHz 5G, and it gave engineers a reliable playbook. At mmWave frequencies — the bands that define 5G FR2 and where 6G research is now focused — that playbook breaks down. The short wavelengths involved mean that the RF front-end circuitry and the antenna cannot be accurately characterised in isolation from one another. As one industry analysis summarised it, at mmWave frequencies, the MMIC and antennas cannot be accurately measured independently, and any testing requires a radiated over-the-air (OTA) measurement. The cable-based “conducted test” that defined decades of antenna measurement simply isn’t viable anymore. This single shift changes everything about how tests must be set up, what equipment is required, and what “accurate results” actually looks like.   What Makes mmWave Testing So Different? You can’t use a cable. At frequencies above 24 GHz, the connection between instrument and device under test is no longer a practical option. Connectors introduce loss, the cable itself becomes a significant source of error, and many modern 5G components don’t have a test connector at all. Every measurement at these frequencies must happen over the air — which means controlled RF environments, precision positioning, and equipment that can operate at the frequency of the device being tested. The test distance changes. In lower-frequency testing, far-field measurements require large physical separation between source and device. At mmWave frequencies, because wavelengths are shorter, far-field conditions are achieved at much smaller distances — often just one to two metres. This sounds like an advantage, and in terms of chamber size it is. But it also means that any stray reflections within a compact chamber are far more problematic. Internal reflections that would be negligible at lower frequencies can seriously compromise measurement accuracy at mmWave. The antenna and radio are inseparable.Modern mmWave devices — 5G modules, phased array units, automotive radar sensors — integrate the antenna directly with the RF circuitry. Beamforming, which steers energy in specific directions to overcome path loss, is baked into the device at the hardware level. To characterise how that device actually behaves, you have to measure its full three-dimensional radiation pattern, not just a single port response. That requires test systems that can measure gain, polarisation, and beam behaviour across a full spherical measurement space. The frequencies themselves demand better instruments. The majority of commercially available vector network analysers natively operate up to around 50 GHz. Above that — the E-band (71–86 GHz), W-band (75–110 GHz), and beyond toward the sub-THz frequencies being explored for 6G — standard instruments simply cannot reach. Testing in these bands requires frequency extension hardware that can bring measurement capability up to the frequency of interest without sacrificing accuracy or dynamic range.     What Insufficient Testing Actually Costs The engineering consequences of inadequate mmWave test capability tend to show up in predictable ways. Measurement errors compound into design errors. If a gain measurement is inaccurate by even a few dB at mmWave frequencies, the link budget calculations built on that measurement will be wrong. A system designed around optimistic antenna performance may work acceptably in ideal lab conditions and fail to meet requirements in real-world deployments — a problem that only emerges after significant investment in hardware, integration, and field testing.   Late-stage compliance failures are expensive. When a device reaches OTA compliance testing and the results don’t match what was measured on the development bench, the investigation costs time that production schedules don’t have. Re-spins at this stage are costly not just financially, but in the delay they introduce to product programmes.   The frequency bands keep shifting. 5G FR2 currently spans 24–71 GHz. 6G research is actively exploring frequencies well above 100 GHz, with the D-band (110–170 GHz) drawing particular industry attention. Test infrastructure bought today needs to be capable of reaching those frequencies — either natively or through extension — or it will need to be replaced again within a development cycle or two.   The Upgrade Path That Most Labs Overlook The response to mmWave test requirements doesn’t have to mean emptying a capital budget on entirely new systems. The more practical approach — and the one increasingly adopted by serious test organisations — is frequency extension. A frequency extender integrates with an existing VNA and translates its measurement capability up to the mmWave band of interest. The extender heads can be positioned physically close to the device under test, which minimises cable loss and improves dynamic range precisely where it matters most. For antenna pattern measurement specifically, transmitter and receiver extension modules can be mounted on the positioner arms within a compact anechoic chamber, giving

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Engineering the Future of Satellite Communications: Insights from SATSHOW 2026

SATSHOW has long been a barometer for where satellite communication is heading. This year’s conference was held in Washington, DC and it continues to serve as a valuable checkpoint for the satellite communications industry. This year the shift toward higher frequency bands was front and centre, but so too were the challenges that come with it. Farran’s CEO, Tomasz Waliwander, observed a gap that is beginning to emerge between what the industry says it is delivering and what it is technically prepared to execute. This is not a gradual evolution. It’s a shift that is already reshaping how RF systems are designed, where the bottlenecks sit, and what it takes to compete.     The Constraint Has Moved For years, spectrum availability was seen as the primary limiter in satellite communications. That assumption no longer holds. As systems push beyond Ka-band into Q/V-band and E-band, bandwidth is no longer the constraint. RF performance is. These higher frequency bands unlock massive capacity, but they come with trade-offs that cannot be ignored: increased atmospheric attenuation, tighter link margins, and a dependence on beamforming to maintain reliability. In practical terms, this means the complexity of system design has increased significantly. It is clear that the real limitation in capacity now stems from RF, rather than from spectrum. Power Amplification Under Pressure At the hardware level, the most immediate bottleneck is power. Delivering efficient, linear power at these frequencies is becoming increasingly difficult. Technologies such as Gallium Nitride (GaN) and Indium Phosphide (InP) are being pushed harder than ever, with engineers forced to balance output power, efficiency, linearity, and thermal constraints simultaneously. There are no clean trade-offs anymore. Improving one parameter almost always impacts another. This is where real expertise shows. The ability to manage these competing demands at a system level and not just at a component level is quickly becoming a defining capability in the industry. Packaging Is Now Performance Another clear takeaway from SATSHOW is that packaging can no longer be treated as a secondary concern. At frequencies between 50 and 90 GHz, even minor losses between MMICs and waveguide interfaces can significantly degrade system efficiency. What was once considered a detail is now central to performance. As a result, the industry is moving toward tightly integrated solutions such as antenna-in-package and wafer-level designs. These approaches reduce loss, improve efficiency, and support the kind of performance required at mmWave frequencies. Effective RF design is defined by how all components work together, rather than by the capabilities of any single element.   Scaling Changes Everything The rise of electronically steerable arrays is also changing the nature of the challenge. Instead of building a single high-power RF chain, the focus is shifting toward scaling thousands of smaller, lower-power elements. This introduces a completely different set of requirements: cost, repeatability, thermal management, and manufacturability all come to the forefront. This highlights a problem in the system rather a component problem. Success depends on how well antenna design, RF performance, and digital control are integrated.     The Emergence of RF Tiles What is emerging as a result is a new architectural approach: modular, highly integrated RF “tiles.” These tiles combine amplification, beamforming, and control into scalable building blocks that can be replicated across large arrays. They are designed with the full system in mind, not as standalone components. This shift has significant implications for the competitive landscape. The advantage will no longer go to those who simply deliver the highest-performing individual parts. It will go to those who can integrate those parts into scalable, manufacturable systems that perform reliably in real-world conditions.   A Leadership Perspective on the future Satellite Communication  These insight from Farran’s CEO reflects a clear understanding of where the industry is heading. Satcom RF is moving away from bespoke, one-off high-performance hardware and toward scalable, production-driven systems. That transition requires a mindset that combines deep technical expertise with a practical understanding of how systems are built, deployed, and scaled. There is no ambiguity here. The companies that succeed will be those that can execute across the full stack—from RF physics to system integration to manufacturing. This is the space Farran is focused on. Not just keeping up with the shift, but leading within it.   Connect with us to learn how Farran’s expertise in RF integration and system-level design is helping operators and manufacturers stay ahead in a rapidly evolving satellite communications landscape.  

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Accelerating the Development of High-Frequency Satellite Communication Systems: Why Millimeter-Wave Expertise Matters More Than Ever

      Satellite communication systems are evolving rapidly. As demand for bandwidth intensifies and spectrum congestion increases at traditional frequency bands, system architects are moving decisively toward higher frequencies — from Ka-band into Q/V- and E-band regimes. These millimeter-wave domains unlock unprecedented throughput, narrower beams, and higher spectral efficiency. However, they also introduce new levels of technical complexity. For companies developing next-generation satellite payloads, ground terminals, and high-frequency RF subsystems, the challenge is no longer simply achieving performance. It is achieving performance quickly, reliably, and with minimal qualification risk. In this environment, millimeter-wave expertise is not a luxury, rather it is a decisive competitive advantage. The Hidden Complexity of High Frequencies As frequency increases, margins for error shrink. At millimeter-wave frequencies: Insertion losses rise sharply Manufacturing tolerances become unforgiving Surface finish and material selection directly affect performance Phase noise and frequency stability become more critical Thermal expansion and mechanical stress introduce measurable drift Packaging and interconnect design become dominant design constraints Small deviations that might be manageable at lower bands can cause mission-critical degradation at 40 GHz and beyond. The result is a higher probability of redesign cycles, integration delays, and qualification setbacks. For space programs operating on aggressive timelines — especially within LEO constellation deployments — these delays translate directly into lost revenue and competitive disadvantage.   Fig 1. E-band Metal Work. Acceleration Is About Risk Reduction “Accelerating development” is often misunderstood as simply working faster. Acceleration in space programs comes from reducing unknowns early in the design process. High-frequency systems are particularly sensitive to integration risk: Component mismatches compound across conversion chains LO distribution and phase noise budgets become tightly coupled Waveguide transitions introduce discontinuities that affect system stability Environmental qualification (vibration, thermal vacuum) stresses mechanical precision When millimeter-wave subsystems are designed without deep experience, problems frequently surface late — during integration or environmental testing — when they are most expensive to correct. Partnering with specialists in high-frequency RF design dramatically reduces this risk. Expertise enables: Correct architecture decisions from the outset Accurate modelling of loss and noise budgets Robust mechanical and thermal design strategies Clean transitions between waveguide and coaxial interfaces Repeatable manufacturing at tight tolerances The result is fewer redesign cycles and faster progression from prototype to qualification.   Fig 2. RF Superheterodyne Transmitter.   Why Millimeter-Wave Expertise Matters Now The shift toward higher frequencies is not incremental — it is structural. Emerging satellite systems are pushing into bands that demand deep electromagnetic understanding, precision machining, and advanced testing capabilities. At these frequencies, experience matters. Not theoretical familiarity, but practical knowledge gained from designing, manufacturing, and validating real-world millimeter-wave hardware. Companies that attempt to internalize all this capability often face steep learning curves. Conversely, those who collaborate with experienced partners can focus their internal teams on system-level innovation rather than component-level troubleshooting.   Reducing Time to Deployment with Farran Technology Farran Technology has built its reputation around high-frequency and millimeter-wave engineering. With decades of experience in RF/microwave and m-wave subsystem design, Farran supports satellite communication developers in overcoming the most demanding technical challenges. By partnering with Farran, companies gain access to: Proven millimeter-wave design expertise High-precision & high-volume manufacturing capabilities Deep understanding of waveguide, frequency conversion, and high-frequency integration Experience supporting aerospace and space qualification requirements This expertise translates directly into reduced development cycles. Designs are right the first time. Performance targets are achieved without extensive iterative redesign. Qualification proceeds with confidence. Equally important, partnering with Farran reduces the risk of late-stage failure. Mechanical integrity, thermal stability, and RF performance are considered holistically which ensures that hardware performs not only in the lab, but in orbit.   Fig 3. 44GHz Upconverter   A Strategic Partnership for High-Frequency Success As satellite systems continue to evolve toward higher frequencies and greater performance density, the margin for error narrows. The difference between success and delay often lies in the depth of millimeter-wave understanding embedded within the development program. Companies that prioritize expert collaboration gain more than technical support. They gain predictability. They gain speed and confidence that their high-frequency systems will meet performance expectations under the harsh realities of space. In an industry where time to orbit defines competitive advantage, partnering with millimeter-wave experts like Farran Technology is not simply an engineering choice but a strategic decision that accelerates deployment while minimizing risk.     Explore Farran’s precision waveguide components designed to ensure reliable performance in high-frequency satellite systems.

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Innovating the mmWave Future: Farran Technology Solutions

Innovating the mmWave Future: Farran Technology Solutions

Millimeter-wave (mmWave) technology is no longer an emerging concept, it is rapidly becoming the backbone of the most advanced microwave systems shaping our world today. From satellite communications and defence to next-generation wireless, automotive radar, and advanced sensing, mmWave innovation is unlocking new levels of performance, resolution, and integration. At Farran Technology, innovation at mmWave is at the core of what we do. With decades of expertise and a portfolio spanning DC to 500 GHz, Farran supports customers as they design, test, and deploy the technologies that will define the next wave of microwave advancement. mmWave: The Common Enabler Across High-Growth Markets The microwave industry is experiencing sustained growth, driven by a clear shift toward higher frequencies and wider bandwidths. mmWave technology has become the unifying enabler across several key sectors: Satellite Communications and Space Systems The rapid expansion of commercial space — particularly low-Earth-orbit (LEO) constellations, is driving demand for high-throughput satellite payloads and advanced ground terminals operating in Ka-band and above. These systems rely on highly linear, broadband front ends, precision frequency conversion, and beamforming architectures. Farran supports satellite and ground-based space applications with high-performance mmWave subsystems and components designed to deliver the bandwidth, stability, and reliability required for next-generation connectivity. Defence, Security, and Radar Applications Modern defence systems increasingly depend on wideband, frequency-agile microwave architectures. Radar, electronic warfare (EW), signals intelligence (SIGINT), and counter-UAS systems all benefit from the higher resolution and faster response enabled by mmWave operation. Farran’s mmWave solutions support advanced radar front ends, low-noise and high-power amplification, and precision frequency conversion — helping defence customers achieve superior target discrimination and robust performance in complex environments. 5G, 6G, and High-Capacity Wireless Communications As 5G networks continue to densify and early 6G research accelerates, mmWave frequencies are central to achieving multi-gigabit data rates and ultra-low latency. This evolution places stringent requirements on linearity, bandwidth, and signal integrity across the RF chain. Farran provides mmWave solutions for test, measurement, and deployment environments, enabling customers to validate and optimize next-generation wireless systems with confidence. Automotive Radar and Mobility Automotive radar operating in the 76–81 GHz band has become essential for advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and the progression toward autonomous vehicles. The demand for higher resolution and multi-sensor fusion is increasing the complexity of radar architectures and test requirements. Farran supports automotive radar innovation with mmWave front-end solutions and test-focused subsystems that enable accurate validation, calibration, and performance verification across the vehicle lifecycle. Emerging Sensing and Smart Infrastructure Beyond traditional markets, mmWave radar is expanding into health monitoring, smart buildings, and industrial sensing. Operating typically between 60–120 GHz, these systems enable contactless detection of motion, presence, and vital signs — while preserving privacy. Farran’s expertise in compact, high-performance mmWave design supports the development of these emerging applications, helping customers translate R&D concepts into robust, deployable solutions. Farran Technology: Enabling Innovation at mmWave Innovation at mmWave is not simply about operating at higher frequencies. It requires precision engineering, deep understanding of system-level challenges, and the ability to integrate performance-critical components into reliable solutions. Farran Technology enables mmWave innovation through: High-performance components, subsystems, and systems Expertise spanning DC to 500 GHz Solutions for test & measurement, ground-based equipment, and advanced R&D Custom design and engineering support for demanding applications By working closely with customers, Farran helps bridge the gap between theoretical performance and real-world deployment — ensuring mmWave systems deliver on their full potential. Looking Ahead The future of the microwave industry is being shaped by mmWave technology. As bandwidth demands increase, sensing requirements become more sophisticated, and systems move toward higher levels of integration, innovation at mmWave will remain central to progress. At Farran Technology, we are committed to supporting this evolution, enabling our customers to build the next generation of microwave and mmWave systems with confidence. To learn more about Farran’s mmWave solutions or to discuss your application, visit www.farran.com

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Designing mmWave Components

Essential process of Designing mmWave Components / Systems

Designing mm Wave components / systems are essential to ensure that every device or subsystem is robust, reliable, and optimized for performance at extremely high frequencies. In this guide, we break down each stage comprehensively, covering modelling, design workflows, pre-production validation, and post-production testing. The 4 Essential Stages of Designing mm-Wave Components / System Stage 1: Modelling 1.1:  Passive & Parasitic Modelling This step involves modelling the passive and parasitic elements of the design in a 3D electromagnetic simulation software such as Ansys HFSS and simulating the performance. This is a crucial step, as it enables the precise design and analysis of high-frequency electronic components. Why we do it: At mm Wave frequencies, even tiny discontinuities, like via transitions, connector pads, surface roughness, or grounding gaps, act as unintended inductors, capacitors, or resonators. These parasitics can dramatically degrade performance, causing issues such as mismatch, loss, unwanted radiation, or frequency shift. By modelling them early, we ensure: The design behaves predictably before fabrication Parasitic effects are minimized or compensated The EM environment is understood accurately Fewer prototype iterations and lower overall development cost Accurate passive modelling is the foundation of a reliable high-frequency design. 1.2: Active & Nonlinear Modelling This step involves creating and simulating models for active and non-linear components in an electronic circuit design and simulation software such as Keysight ADS and how these components behave under various operating conditions. Why we do it: Their performance changes with temperature, bias voltage, drive level, and frequency. Nonlinear modelling allows engineers to predict: Gain compression and saturation behaviour Linearity and distortion (IMD, harmonics) Noise performance Power consumption and thermal impact Stability under different loads If these nonlinear behaviours are not understood upfront, the system may fail to meet power, noise, or modulation requirements. Modelling ensures the final system performs as expected in real-world operating environments. The 4 Essential Stages of Designing mm-Wave Components / System Stage 2: Design 2.1: DC Circuit Schematic & PCB Layout In this step, all the necessary components and circuitry responsible for handling DC within the RF system is designed in softwares such as ORCAD Capture and PCB Editor. This enables functions such as biasing the active components, supplying power or isolating the RF signal path from unwanted DC signals. Why we do it: DC circuitry is the backbone of all active RF components. Without proper DC design: Amplifiers may oscillate or become unstable Noise may leak into RF paths Voltage drops may reduce gain or output power Components may fail prematurely due to improper biasing A carefully designed layout ensures stable and clean power distribution, isolation of RF paths, and efficient biasing, all of which are essential for predictable mm Wave system performance. 2.1: Thermal Management Heat management is critical in mm-Wave components/ system. Using simulation platforms, we analyse temperature distribution and create strategies to remove excess heat from high-power components, boosting reliability, performance, and system lifespan. Why we do it: High-frequency components, especially PAs, generate significant heat. Without proper thermal management: Performance degrades (gain, noise, efficiency drop) Nonlinearities increase Device lifetime shortens dramatically Materials can warp or delaminate Entire system may fail suddenly Managing heat is essential to ensuring long-term reliability, stable performance, and compliance with safety standards. 2.2: CAD Modelling Now the design becomes tangible. Mechanical structures are modelled, ensuring everything aligns with manufacturing requirements. This step delivers a complete 3D visualization of the final device. Why we do it: Mechanical integrity directly affects RF performance at mm Wave frequencies. Even a millimetre of misalignment can cause: Impedance mismatches Waveguide leakage Loss of gain or directivity Mechanical stress on components CAD modelling ensures that the design is not only functional electrically but also manufacturable, durable, and physically precise. The 4 Essential Stages of Designing mm-Wave Components / System Stage 3: Pre-Production 3.1: Engineering Review In this step, a detailed engineering review of all the key aspects of the designed system is performed. This involves design evaluation against requirements, confirming all the simulations and addressing any remaining issues. If there are any issues identified at this stage, the process reverts to the relevant stage. A detailed engineering review is performed to evaluate the design against all requirements. This includes verifying EM results, checking PCB layout rules, reviewing thermal simulations, and validating CAD models Why we do it: The engineering review acts as the final quality gate before production. It ensures: Errors are caught early Simulations match design intent Cross-functional teams agree on manufacturability Risk is minimized If any issues surface, the design loops back to the appropriate stage, preventing costly manufacturing mistakes. 3.2: Ready for Production After all stages are completed, the result is a fully compliant, production-ready mm-wave component/ system, engineered for performance, reliability, and scale. Why we do it: This stage ensures that manufacturing teams can produce the system reliably at scale. It guarantees: Consistency across production batches No ambiguity in assembly or materials Smooth handover to fabrication facilities Reduced risk of rework or scrap The 4 Essential Stages of Designing mm-Wave Components / System Stage 4: Post-Production 4.1: Performance Testing The mm-wave component/ system is tested across its entire operating bandwidth to verify key parameters such as gain, return loss, output power, efficiency, linearity, noise performance, and stability. Using precision network analysers, spectrum analysers, we evaluate the device under real operating conditions, including worst-case scenarios. Why we do it: Simulation is powerful, but real-world behaviour can differ due to manufacturing tolerances, assembly variation, or material imperfections. Performance testing ensures: The device meets all electrical specifications It behaves reliably under worst-case conditions Integration with other system elements is seamless Any deviations are identified and corrected Performance testing provides the hard data needed for product certification, customer acceptance, and market release. 4.2: Environmental Testing We subject the component/ system to rigorous environmental qualification. This includes vibration and shock testing, humidity exposure, and other stress conditions that replicate real-world deployment environments. Why we do it: mm Wave systems often operate in harsh environments, for telecom infrastructure, military systems, automotive sensors, aerospace platforms, and more.

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mmWave Imaging and Radiometers for Earth Observation

mmWave Imaging and Radiometers for Earth Observation

Environmental Monitoring Through mmWave Imaging and Radiometers for Earth Observation In the pursuit of deeper insights into our planet’s atmosphere and surface, Passive Millimeter-Wave (PMMW) imaging and radiometers are emerging as indispensable technologies for Earth observation and remote sensing. By capturing natural electromagnetic emissions across the Q, V, E, W, and D bands, PMMW systems provide unmatched visibility through clouds, dust, and darkness — enabling precise measurement and imaging in all weather conditions. At Farran Technology, we empower scientists, engineers, and system integrators with high-performance mmWave components and subsystems that drive the next generation of radiometric and imaging instruments. What Is Passive Millimeter Wave Imaging (PMMW)? PMMW imaging detects naturally emitted radiation from objects, rather than transmitting a signal. This makes it a non-invasive, all-weather sensing method ideal for: Atmospheric monitoring Environmental surveillance Security and defense imaging Scientific and industrial research Operating in the 30 GHz to 500 GHz range, PMMW provide fine spatial resolution and deep atmospheric penetration, complementing optical and infrared instruments that are limited by weather or daylight conditions. Farran’s Expertise in Radiometers and Millimeter Wave Front-End Design For over 40 years, Farran Technology has delivered precision-engineered mmWave solutions for research institutions, space agencies, and commercial system integrators worldwide. Our radiometers and PMMW imaging components are designed for exceptional sensitivity, stability, and linearity — the three pillars of accurate signal measurement. Key technologies include: Low-noise passive amplifiers with ultra-low insertion loss and high gain uniformity. Frequency extenders and up/down converters for Q, V, E, W, and D band coverage. Custom designed waveguide assemblies and front-end modules optimized for radiometric receivers. Thermally stable architectures ensuring consistent performance in laboratory and field environments. Why mmWave Technology Matters for Earth Observation The power of mmWave radiometers and imaging lies in its ability to see through the atmosphere — detecting temperature variations, moisture profiles, and surface characteristics that are invisible to other sensors. PMMW imaging supports: Accurate climate modeling through improved temperature and humidity profiling. All-weather imaging for environmental monitoring and security. Spectrum monitoring and signal intelligence in scientific and defense applications. By operating across Q to D bands, PMMW systems achieve superior spectral resolution, enabling finer differentiation of natural emissions and more detailed environmental data. Enabling the Future of Passive Imaging and Radiometric Research As the demand for high-frequency sensing grows, Farran continues to advance the state of mmWave technology through innovation in low-noise design, broadband operation, and custom integration. Our Space and Emerging Technology solutions deliver the performance and flexibility needed to support: Next-generation radiometers and passive imagers Airborne and ground-based observation platforms Scientific payload calibration and test systems Each solution is engineered to ensure measurement integrity, frequency stability, and ease of integration into complex observation architectures. Partner with Farran Technology From concept to calibration, Farran Technology partners with research organizations and system developers to deliver mmWave imaging and radiometers solutions that meet the most demanding scientific and environmental objectives. We will be showcasing our latest PMMW imaging and radiometry solutions at Space Tech Expo 2025, where our team will be available to discuss advanced mmWave innovations for Earth observation, spectrum monitoring, and passive sensing. Visit our booth to discuss how Farran’s Q, V, E, W, and D band technologies are shaping the future of high-frequency environmental monitoring and scientific instrumentation. Our CEO Tomasz Waliwander and Applications Engineer Courage Mudzingwa are looking forward to connecting with engineers, researchers, and system integrators to explore collaborative opportunities and share insights on the innovations and the next generation products for mmWave imaging and radiometers measurement solutions. 🔹 Explore precision at the millimeter-wave frontier. 📧 Contact our experts at info@farran.com 🌐 Learn more on our website

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mmwWaves solutions, radar technlooogy, advancing radar with Farran Technology

Advancing Radar Performance

Farran’s mmWave Solutions for Radar technology The technology is rapidly evolving as industries seek sharper detection capabilities, longer operational distances, and consistent performance in all environments. Farran’s mmWave solutions are designed to meet these growing expectations by delivering high-frequency precision that enhances real-time sensing and situational awareness. From air traffic control to autonomous vehicles and environmental monitoring, mmWave radar enables clearer imaging and improved decision-making, positioning it as a key driver in the next generation of advanced sensing systems. As radar applications expand into more complex and dynamic environments, traditional technologies are reaching their limits. Industries now expect sharper detection, extended coverage, and consistent reliability across all conditions. These rising expectations are accelerating the shift toward mmWave radar, a technology capable of delivering superior resolution and enhanced precision sensing. By enabling clearer imaging and improved operational performance, mmWave systems are shaping the future of radar innovation across aerospace, automotive, and advanced security applications.     Backed by decades of mmWave experience spanning 20 GHz to 500 GHz, Farran provides the critical building blocks radar designers need to push performance boundaries. Our portfolio, from FMCW front ends and low-noise amplifiers for exquisite detection to high-power amplifiers for longer reach, flexible frequency converters, and bespoke custom designs, lets system integrators optimize for resolution, range, and reliability. Combined with precision manufacturing and engineering know-how, these solutions accelerate development cycles and deliver field-proven performance across aerospace, automotive, and sensing applications.         Check out our product page and contact us to explore how Farran can elevate your radar performance.  

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radar chamber

Farran’s mmWave Solutions for Radar Performance

By Kathy Stapleton, Marketing Manager at Farran Radar systems are at the forefront of modern defense, aerospace, automotive, and remote sensing applications The demand for higher resolution, increased range, and greater reliability is driving the industry toward mmWave Solutions technology for Radar Solutions. Farran Technology, with decades of expertise in delivering solutions up to 500 GHz, provides cutting-edge subsystems and components that empower system integrators and engineers to achieve next-generation radar performance. Industry Challenges Increasing need for high-resolution imaging in defense and security radar. Demand for compact, high-performance subsystems for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), satellites, and ground-based installations. Requirement for wide bandwidth and low noise to ensure precision in detection and tracking. Farran’s Contribution to Radar Systems in mmWave Solutions High-Power Amplifiers – Enable extended range and stronger target illumination in ground-based and airborne radar. Low-Noise Amplifiers (LNAs) – Improve sensitivity and detection accuracy, especially in cluttered or long-range scenarios. Frequency Converters & Extenders – Support flexible design and precise frequency translation for radar test and deployment. Custom Design Solutions – Tailored mmWave subsystems engineered to meet the unique integration requirements of defense and aerospace customers. Radiometers & Detection Modules – Enhance passive radar and monitoring applications with high sensitivity. Applications Across the Radar Landscape Ground-Based Radar: Air traffic control, surveillance, weather monitoring. Airborne Radar: UAV and aircraft systems requiring compact, lightweight solutions. Space-Based Radar: Earth observation, environmental monitoring, synthetic aperture radar (SAR). Automotive & Industrial Radar: Collision avoidance, autonomous navigation, and industrial inspection. ConclusionAs radar technology evolves, the shift toward mmWave is inevitable. Farran Technology stands as a trusted partner, delivering reliable, high-performance components and subsystems that accelerate innovation and support mission-critical radar applications. 👉 Explore Farran’s Radar Solutions in our website.

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mmwave in europe

Our New mmWave Website Is Live!

We’re excited to announce the launch of Farran’s new website! The longest established mmWave Company in Europe. Designed in collaboration with Doodle, our new platform offers a clearer structure, improved navigation, and a modern look — making it easier than ever to explore our mmWave systems, subsystems, and components up to 500 GHz. We invite you to discover how Farran continues to power innovation across Test & Measurement, 5G & 6G, ATE, Detection, and Space. 🔗 Explore the new site: www.farran.com

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