On exploiting new circuit topologies for the next-generation wireless transceivers at the μ- and mm-Waves

The design of modern wireless transceiver is mainly addressed to the two major challenges: very high frequency operations (i.e. millimeter-wave) and very low power consumption. In spite of the feasibility of several building blocks at the millimeter-waves has been demonstrated both in CMOS and SiGe processes, the achievement of high gain and low noise performance with the lowest power consumption proposes several evergreen challenges, as well as at lower frequency (i.e. microwave). In the framework of the ongoing trend, this paper approaches the opportunity of exploiting new circuit topologies, as well as in the low noise amplifier, voltage controlled oscillator and active inductor designs, and presents some high-potential solutions for the on-chip integration of next-generation wireless transceivers.