Semiconductor devices for RF applications: evolution and current status

Abstract

This paper reviews the history, evolution, current status, and applications of semiconductor devices for radio frequency (RF) applications. The most important developments and major milestones leading to modern high-performance RF transistors are presented. Heterostructures, which are key elements for some advanced RF transistors, are described, and an overview of the different transistor types and their figures of merit is given. Applications of RF transistors in civil RF systems with special emphasis on wireless communication systems are addressed, and the issues of transistor reliability are also briefly discussed.