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IEEE Transactions on Microwave Theory and Techniques
Volume 48 Number 12, December 2000

Table of Contents for this issue

Complete paper in PDF format

A High-Efficiency and Low-Phase-Noise 38-GHz pHEMT MMIC Tripler

Ali Boudiaf, Member, IEEE Didier Bachelet and Christian Rumelhard Member, IEEE

Page 2546.

Abstract:

Frequency translation circuits are key elements in communication systems. This paper presents a frequency tripler for 38-GHz short-range communication systems, designed using a pseudomorphic high electron-mobility field-effect transistor (pHEMT) technology. The successful first iteration monolithic microwave integrated circuit achieved a state-of-the-art output power of 3.1 dBm and a minimum conversion loss of 3.4 dB. The multiplier exhibits a conversion efficiency of 11% and average phase noise degradation at 10 and 100 kHz offset frequency from carrier of 9 ± 1 dB. Through a comprehensive study of the frequency multiplier, we demonstrate the optimum performance achieved under a class B mode of operation. To our knowledge,this is the first reported Ka-band single-stage frequency tripler based on pHEMT technology that has been fully characterized for phase noise degradation.

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