Current-mode approach for a variable-gain low-noise amplifier (LNA)

This paper presents a technique using current-mode approach for a CMOS variable-gain low noise amplifier, emphasizing on low power consumption and low noise factor at 1.8 GHz using standard 0.18 μm CMOS process. Rivaling classical designs in performance, this design has controllable gain range from 12.85 dB to 8.26 dB by varying current without changes in supply, V_dd as well as keeping noise factor minimum by introducing an additional capacitance. As a result, very low noise factor become possible at very low power consumption level through current-mode approach.