Frequency synthesiser architecture eliminating high speed frequency dividers for millimetre-wave applications

A frequency synthesiser architecture for millimetre-wave applications is proposed. The architecture is based on a triple-push oscillator, which functions both as a divider and oscillator. Thus, the proposed architecture eliminates the need for injection locked frequency dividers that are the main contributors to the limited tuning capability of millimetre- wave phase-locked loops. Since the proposed architecture is solely based on the performance of the triple-push oscillator, the measurement result of the first silicon triple-push oscillator at 30 GHz is presented to support the validity of the concept.     

Dual-band ultra-wide tuning range CMOS voltage-controlled oscillator

A dual-band wide-tuning range LC CMOS voltage controlled oscillator (VCO) topology is proposed. Dual-band operation is realised by employing a double-tuned double-driven transformer as a resonator. The proposed approach eliminates MOS switches, which are typically used in multi-standard oscillators, and thus improves phase noise and tuning range characteristics. The concept is demonstrated through the design of an LC VCO in a standard 0.18 mum CMOS process. Two frequency bands are realised (2.4 and 6 GHz) with 740 MHz tuning range in the first band and 1.56 GHz tuning range in the second band. Operating from a 1.8 V supply, the VCO has a simulated phase noise of -119 dBc/Hz in the 2.4 GHz band and -110 dBc/Hz in the 6 GHz band at 600 KHz offset from the carrier