Imagine a tiny, high-tech sieve that only lets specific radio signals through while blocking all the noise. Instead of using heavy, bulky metal parts, this tech uses a special thin-film material similar to what's in smartphones. It makes satellite communication equipment much lighter and more stable, even in the extreme temperatures of space.
Satellite operators currently rely on bulky mechanical filters or non-European technology, which increases launch mass and creates supply chain vulnerabilities for 5G NTN networks.
A new Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW) filter technology using Piezo-On-Insulator (POI) substrates. This includes dual L+S-band filter designs and prototypes tested in QFN packaging.
If you are a constellation operator dealing with the high cost of launching heavy equipment — this project developed POI-based SAW filters that reduce mass and replace bulky mechanical filters. This allows for more hardware per launch and better thermal management in orbit.
If you are a network provider dealing with the need to integrate satellites into 5G networks — this project developed dual L+S-band filter solutions. This ensures high rejection and low signal loss for broadband digital connectivity.
If you are a manufacturer dealing with dependence on non-European critical technologies — this project developed a European-based supply chain for POI wafers and back-end processing. This secures the production of high-reliability RF passive components.
Based on available project data, specific pricing is not mentioned, but the project aims to reduce costs by replacing bulky mechanical filters with integrated POI-based solutions.
Yes, the technology leverages POI wafers already produced for the smartphone industry and targets all volume demands from GEO to LEO satellite constellations.
Based on available project data, the value chain includes a consortium of 5 partners including SOITEC SA; however, specific licensing terms are not disclosed.
The filters are designed for high integration and are being tested in QFN packaging to ensure they fit into active antenna modules.
The project runs from 2023-01-01 to 2026-03-31, aiming to reach TRL7 by the end of the period.
The consortium is heavily industry-driven with an 80% industry ratio, consisting of 4 companies and 1 university across 3 countries (FR, BE, ES). Led by SOITEC SA, the group integrates the entire value chain from wafer supply and device optimization to space reliability testing (ALT) and system integration (TAS), indicating a strong push toward commercialization rather than pure research.
Contact SOITEC SA in France for technical specifications on POI-based SAW filters.
Contact us to connect with the HOMEMADE consortium for TRL7 component sourcing.
