MMIC-oscillator designs for ultra low phase noise

Abstract

Various balanced VCO-topologies like cross-connected (negative gm), coupled cross-connected, coupled Colpitt and Clapp oscillators, all with a fully integrated tank are reported. In this study, different MMIC/RFIC technologies such as SiGe HBT, InGaP-GaAs-HBT, PHEMT, MHEMT, and CMOS are represented and parameters such as phase-noise, output power, dc-power consumption, and tuning range are compared. All oscillators are designed for low phase noise. Low phase noise can be achieved by CMOS, PHEMT and MHEMT technologies although SiGe and InGaP-GaAs HBT based oscillators have demonstrated the lowest phase noise. Both fundamental and second harmonic VCOs are represented in the evaluation.