Ultra low phase noise parametric frequency divider for highest performance microwave- and millimeter-wave frequency sources

A two stage parametric frequency divider (900/450/225MHz) with ultra low phase noise for application in the frequency generation section of advanced microwave and millimeterwave frequency sources has been developed. The necessity for the usage of this type of divider in local oscillator PLL circuits is described. The article focusses on the extensive use of modem CAE tools based on precise diode parameter extraction, that leads to an excellent agreement between simulation and measurement results. The divider consists of two halvers in a series configuration, including low cost hyperabrupt tuning varactors, an amplifier stage and only a few lumped elements for impedance matching. The output signal is calculated in frequency and time domain. Recommended minimum input power, conversion loss and power threshold behaviour are predetermined. The measured phase noise floor is compared to a digital frequency divider.