Phase noise performance of analog frequency dividers

The phase noise performance obtainable using silicon and GaAs-based TTL (transistor-transistor logic) and ECL (emitter-coupled logic) logic level digital frequency dividers is discussed. Measurement of the spectral performance of two types of analog dividers is reported: a parametric divider using varactor diodes and a regenerative-type divider incorporating a double-balanced mixer in the oscillator feedback circuit. Both dividers were configured for divide-by-two operation at VHF. Evaluation indicates the regenerative divider is capable of providing much lower phase noise than conventional digital logic level devices. The regenerative divider can be successfully operated over bandwidths in excess of an octave, and the design lends itself to small (i.e. TO-8) modular package implementation. Operating frequencies are bounded only by the range of the mixer and RF amplifier utilized and, as such, should extend from HF through microwave.