Ultra-Broadband Frequency Multiplier MMICs for Communication and Radar Applications

Two H-band frequency multiplier MMICs, a frequency doubler and tripler, are presented. Both circuits were characterized over a frequency range of 235 − 285 GHz. The 3-dB bandwidth of both chips exceeds the measurement range of 50 GHz. Without any post-amplification the multiplier-by-3 achieves an average output power of −6 dBm at an input power of 6 dBm. The multiplier-by-two generates −3.6 dBm average at an input power of 5 dBm. Both MMICs were realized in a 35 nm gate-length InGaAs-based metamorphic HEMT technology. A comparison of simulation and measurement was conducted and shows a very good correspondence.

I. Introduction

The trend to strive for higher frequencies is not only present in communication but also in radar applications.