36% Frequency-tuning-range dual-core 60 GHz push-push VCO in 45 nm RF-SOI CMOS technology

Abstract

This paper presents a millimeter-wave (mm-wave) push-push voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) in a 45 nm RF-SOI CMOS technology. The circuit aims to meet specifications for FMCW radar applications requiring an ultra-wide PLL modulation bandwidth. The fundamental output of the VCO can be tuned from 27 GHz to 39 GHz, which corresponds to a frequency tuning range (FTR) of 36 %. We extract the 2nd harmonic in a non-invasive way using a transformer. The measured phase noise (PN) at 1 MHz offset from the fundamental carrier varies across the tuning range from −100 dBc/Hz to −90 dBc/Hz. The VCO including output buffers dissipates 65 mW DC power from a single 1 V supply and consumes a chip area of 0.12 mm2.