Macquarie Analog Devices Laboratory (MAD Lab)

Our team pushes the horizons of industry-driven wireless electronics for applications including satellite systems, test instruments, phased array, high-capacity microwave radio applications, 5G/6G radio access and backhaul.

The laboratory supports measurements up to W-band at 120 GHz, for small-signal, noise, power and load-pull characterisation. The group is the home of commercialised FET/HEMT models and has designed numerous ICs which have been commercialised by industry. We are currently focused on developing GaN, GaAs and SiGe ICs at the limits of power and frequency, which leverages expertise not only in transistor physics, modelling and circuit design but also in packaging and PCB development.

Other areas of interest:

  • Space applications – design for radiation hardness
  • Thermal analysis
  • Circuit design training

We have major industry partnerships and research funding including Analog Devices (ADI) and Defence Science and Technology (DST). Industry partners around the globe have used the Parker-Skellern and MQFET models. With their support we continue to develop the modelling, extraction and characterisation science to improve accuracy and precision. Our IC research works hand-in-hand with our mission to train and enable the next generation of IC designers.

Our people

Mad Lab team

Vale Professor Michael Heimlich

Co-founder of Mad Lab

We are forever indebted to Mike’s tireless dedication and hard work. As an inspiring leader, he believed in everyone and encouraged working toward a collective goal. His optimistic attitude, infectious enthusiasm, problem solving and passion for life will be deeply missed. Mike’s legacy lives on through current and future research projects.

Professor Michael Heimlich.

Professor Michael Heimlich wearing a colourful spiky wig.

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