Millimeter-Wave IC Design Techniques for Beam-Forming Applications

The paper presents some key circuit design techniques for millimeter-wave ICs, especially for beam-forming applications. Firstly, the world-first CMOS SPDT switches operating beyond 140 GHz are introduced. Two prototypes, at 130-180 GHz and 220-285 GHz respectively, demonstrate the magnetic switchable artificial resonator concept and achieve size reduction over 90% (in terms of wavelength). Secondly, two 60-GHz fine-resolution phase shifters are presented, one with 3-bit 90 phase control capability while the other one featured with 5 bit 360. Lastly, a 60-GHz bidirectional switchless LNAPA is demonstrated. All the works are measured and achieve excellent performance.