Compact CMOS IR-UWB transmitter using variable-order Gaussian pulse generator

An area-efficient CMOS impulse radio ultra-wideband (IR-UWB) transmitter capable of generating variable orders of Gaussian pulses is presented. The core of the pulse generator is constructed using the cascade connection of RC differentiator networks separated by tunable amplifiers. Tuning the bias current of the amplifier using a voltage-controlled current-source allows for generation of varying orders of Gaussian pulses, which in turn allows for controlling the power and spectral mask of transmitted signals. Fabricated in a TSMC 90 nm digital CMOS process, the measurement shows that the fully integrated transmitter can generate fifth- to sixth-order Gaussian pulses. The core transmitter consumes 10.0-12.0 mW at 200 MHz pulse repeating frequency and occupies a chip area of 0.008 mm² only.