Design of a Ku-band MMIC LNA with a Simple T-type Input Matching Network

Abstract

In this paper, the design of a wideband monolithic microwave integrated circuit (MMIC) low-noise amplifier (LNA) fabricated in 0.13-[Formula: see text]m GaAs pHEMT process is presented. A simple T-type input matching network (IMN) and a source feedback structure are employed to achieve low noise figure (NF). The MMIC LNA, which operates across 12–18[Formula: see text]GHz, can be used for satellite applications. Experimental results show an NF around 1.5[Formula: see text]dB in 12–17.5[Formula: see text]GHz and a minimum NF of 1.21[Formula: see text]dB at 16.5[Formula: see text]GHz. In addition, a flat small-signal gain of [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]dB is achieved at 13.5–17.5[Formula: see text]GHz. The input return loss is lower than [Formula: see text] dB at 12–14.5[Formula: see text]GHz and the output return loss is lower than [Formula: see text] dB at 12–17[Formula: see text]GHz. The power consumed is lower than 0.3[Formula: see text]W and the [Formula: see text] (1-dB compression point) output power is around 13[Formula: see text]dBm.