Nonlinear Frequency-Modulation Distortion Analysis for VCO Based on Harmonic Balance Method

The analysis methods for the steady-state responses of the voltage tuning negative resistance oscillator (voltage-controlling oscillator, VCO) by the microwave nonlinear autonomous circuit harmonic balance method in millimeter-wave bands are studied in the paper. Firstly, the quasi-periodic characteristic of the steady-state response of the VCO modulated by a periodic signal is proved. Then, on the bases of the harmonic balance analysis and the inter-modulation balance analysis, a novel method for obtaining the steady-state tuning performance and the nonlinear frequency-modulation distortion characteristic of the VCO is presented. The total analysis process is aimed to a kind of NRD-guide Gunn diode VCO. The large-signal lumped equivalent circuit model of the millimeter-wave P⁺N-junction varactor is also given for explaining the algorithm and the principle of the NRD-guide VCO.