IEEE MTT-S International Microwave Symposium (IMS) 2025 will be held from June 15-20 in San Francisco, California. IMS is the premier event for RF, microwave, and millimeter-wave technologies, offering a packed schedule of technical sessions, networking opportunities, and exhibits. The annual event attracts engineers, scientists, and business leaders from around the globe. Whether you’re focused on ultra-low phase noise, advanced frequency synthesis, or cutting-edge noise measurement techniques, IMS 2025 offers technical sessions and resources for anyone working in frequency control and timing. Below, we’ve put together key IMS details, our exhibition plans, our top technical session picks, local recommendations, helpful links, and more to ensure you have the very best experience.
Since its start in 1957, IMS has grown into the world’s largest event dedicated to the RF and microwave industry. IMS 2025 will feature more than 500 exhibitors showcasing the latest products in RF and microwave technologies. Additionally, spotlights on key focus areas such as radar systems, phased arrays, 6G, smart sensing, and more. Attendees can expect live electrical performance demonstrations, new technologies, product launches, and opportunities to connect with suppliers, manufacturers, research organizations, and more.
Exhibition Hall Hours
June 17: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
June 18: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
June 19: 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM
Symposium Location
Moscone Center
47 Howard St, San Francisco, CA 94103
The IMS 2025 Technical Program offers a wide range of opportunities for engineers, researchers, and students working across the spectrum. Attendees will have access to hundreds of peer-reviewed technical papers, hands-on workshops, and interactive forums that provide practical insights into design challenges and emerging applications. The technical program also includes expert-led panel sessions addressing key industry shifts, such as spectrum management, reliability in harsh environments, and advances in materials and packaging. Areas of focus range from foundational topics like microwave circuit design and power amplifiers to cutting-edge fields including terahertz systems, quantum computing interfaces, and the future of wireless communications infrastructure. The RFIC Symposium (June 15-17) runs in parallel and centers on integrated circuit design across RF, millimeter-wave, and wireless domains. The ARFTG Conference (June 20) follows IMS and is dedicated to the science and practice of high-frequency measurement.
Our Top Picks for Frequency Control and Timing
For those focused on frequency stability and low phase noise performance, the following demonstrations, sessions and workshops are especially recommended:
This workshop dives into the construction and operation of superconducting quantum computers through the lens of microwave engineering. Topics will include understanding the properties of photons and qubits, with a focus on microwave-addressable superconducting qubits. The session will cover essential microwave engineering techniques for qubit readout, qubit control, and quantum-limited amplification. Case studies will highlight cryogenic microwave packaging for superconducting devices and harmonic balance simulation of quantum-limited amplifiers. Begins Sunday, June 15 at 8:00 AM in Room 216.
This workshop will cover advanced noise measurement techniques crucial for low-noise amplifiers and receivers in satellite-based systems, quantum computing, and radio astronomy. Special focus will be placed on noise sources, characterization methods, and error analysis at both room temperature and cryogenic conditions. Topics will include on-wafer noise temperature measurements, cryogenic LNA testing, and handling production volumes in radio astronomy. Begins Monday, June 16 at 8:00 AM in Room 204.
This bootcamp session covers continuous wave (CW) signal characteristics including phase noise, VCOs, PLLs, and synthesis techniques. It also addresses both analog and digital modulation formats, such as AM, PM, FM, pulse, polar, and I/Q modulation. Key measurement concepts like constellation diagrams, error vector magnitude (EVM), and vector signal analysis will be explained in detail. Ideal for those working on frequency synthesis, low-noise signal generation, and RF system performance verification. Begins Monday, June 16 at 8:00 AM in Room 212-214.
View live demonstrations of Quantic Wenzel’s and Quantic MWD’s ultra-low phase noise Oven-Controlled Crystal Oscillators (OCXOs) and Dielectric Resonator Oscillators (DROs). The live demonstrations will feature new and legacy products, real-time electrical performance measurements with industry-leading phase noise characteristics, frequency stability, and overall signal purity. Available during regular exhibit hours, Tuesday, June 17-19 at booth 1251.
This session explores integrated millimeter-wave radar systems, including frequency synthesis, signal generation, and full-system integration for advanced sensing applications. Presentations cover topics such as low-phase-noise architectures, compact packaging, and system-on-chip designs. Begins June 17 at 8:00 AM in Room 201.
This session presents advanced frequency converters and modulators using silicon-based and III-V semiconductor technologies. Topics include frequency multiplication, frequency mixing, and I/Q modulators. Begins Wednesday, June 18 at 8:00 AM in Room 211.
This panel explores the rapidly evolving needs of space-based communication and observation platforms, driven by global events, increased data demand, and the proliferation of both LEO and GEO satellites. Panelists will address the tradeoffs between cost, performance, and reliability in component development for different orbital environments and discuss the future direction of space systems. Begins Thursday, June 19 at 12:00 PM in Room 201.
IMS 2025 isn’t just about the technical program- it’s also a chance to connect and grow with others in the microwave and RF community. Throughout the week, attendees can take part in casual and professional gatherings that bring people together across all career stages.
Welcome Reception (June 16)
An informal networking evening to kick off the week. Begins at 7:30 PM at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SF MOMA).
Industry Hosted Reception (June 18)
Indulge in delicious appetizers and beverages with colleagues, friends, and exhibitors. Begins at 5:00 PM in the exhibition hall.
Young Professionals (YP’s) Networking Reception (June 17)
Designed to support and connect early-career engineers. Begins at 7:00 PM.
MTT-S Awards Banquet (June 18)
A networking event with food, drinks, and entertainment sponsored by IMS exhibitors. Begins at 6:30 PM at the San Francisco Marriott Marquis (Ticket Required).
Women in Microwaves Reception (June 17)
Celebrating the contributions of women in the RF and microwave fields. Begins at 7:00 PM.
Located in the heart of downtown, the Moscone Center puts IMS 2025 within reach of San Francisco’s most well-known sites. From its early days as a Gold Rush hub to its long-standing reputation for innovation and industry, the city offers a wonderful setting for this year’s symposium. With its mix of historic architecture, diverse neighborhoods, and cultural landmarks, there’s plenty to see if you have time between sessions or after the conference wraps up.
Golden Gate Bridge
Walk or bike across one of the most famous bridges in the world.
Alcatraz Island
Tour the historic former prison, just a short ferry ride from Pier 33.
Mission District Murals
Discover the colorful public art and authentic local culture.
Ferry Building Marketplace
Sample artisanal food and local specialties along the waterfront.
Chinatown
Explore one of the oldest and most vibrant Chinatowns outside Asia.
Union Square
For shopping, dining, and cultural events, just blocks from the Moscone Center.
These links provide all the essential details you’ll need to navigate IMS 2025 with ease. From event schedules to travel tips, they’ll help you make the most of your experience.
Registration Information
(Use code 608 to receive a free exhibit hall pass!)
Quantic Wenzel engineers and manufactures ultra-low phase noise crystal oscillators, frequency synthesizers, and integrated microwave assemblies to 30 GHz and beyond, delivering performance that meets the rigorous demands of mission-critical aerospace, defense, and space systems. At IMS 2025, we’ll showcase our tried and proven frequency control and timing solutions, engineered for unmatched phase noise, frequency stability, and environmental resilience. From flight-qualified OCXOs to compact synthesizers and custom assemblies, our products are trusted wherever precision and reliability are non-negotiable.
Visit Quantic Wenzel at booth 1251 and view live performance demonstrations of ultra-low phase noise oscillators, including the new Whisper Series Phase Locked DRO. Additionally, Integrated Microwave Assemblies (IMAs) with innovative active and passive vibration compensation technologies. Schedule a meeting in advance by emailing sales@quanticwenzel.com or by calling +1 (512) 835-2038.
IMS 2025 offers an unmatched opportunity to engage with the best and brightest in RF, microwave, and millimeter-wave innovation. Whether you’re exploring the latest advancements on the exhibition floor, learning from technical sessions, or taking in the sights of San Francisco, IMS 2025 promises a week of connection, discovery, and advancement. We look forward to seeing you at booth 1251!
