2.5-GHz fully-integrated WiMAX transceiver IC for a compact, low-power-consumption RF module

We fabricated a fully integrated WiMAX transceiver in a 90-nm CMOS that can reduce balun and matching network components on an RF module board. Output linearity of up to 12 dBm and a wide variable gain range of 60 dB were achieved using a single-ended signal interface for the PA driver of the transmitter. A combination of a class AB amplifier and a class C amplifier is used for the driver to widen the linearity. Placing the single-ended to differential converter between the LNA and down-conversion mixer gives the receiver wide linearity without the use of a balun. The use of the improved matching network in the LNA results in an S11 of better than -20 dB at between 2.5 and 2.7 GHz. Measurement of the characteristics of a transceiver fabricated on an IC chip shows that it satisfies the WiMAX standard.