Low noise mm-wave amplifier design methodology

A design methodology for mm-wave LNAs is presented. The optimum bias point selection is outlined. The stabilisation strategy is described, and the impact of packaging requirements on the amplifier design is discussed. A bond wire compensation technique is detailed. The tradeoff between input match and noise figure is presented, and a design with a suitable tradeoff is(1) developed. A very simple inter-stage match requirement is a novel outcome of this design approach. An effective means of achieving a broadband response is also outlined. A four stage 30 - 50 GHz LNA design was fabricated and characterised in a customised package. A maximum MMIC gain of 28 dB at 32 GHz was achieved, and the gain exceeded 20 dB over the frequency range 26 - 44 GHz. A noise figure of 4.5 dB and a P1dB of +11 dBm were also obtained. It is the authors' opinion that the methodology, presented in this paper will be of significant interest to other min-wave LNA designers.