A Ku-band down-converter with perfect differential PLL in 0.18um CMOS

This paper presents a Ku-band down converter that includes perfect differential PLL in a 0.18 μm CMOS technology. This front-end down-converts the input signal from the Ku-band (10.5~13 GHz) to the IF (~2.3 GHz). This fully integrated down-converter is dedicated to both satellite receivers and microwave link products. The perfect differential PLL shows very low supply voltage sensitivity (Kpss=-0.18[%/V]), making it possible to eliminate on chip regulator. A novel model-matched layout design methodology not only enhance ft but also reduce risk of non-convergences. The down converter performance include 5.5 dB gain; 4.35 dBm IIP3; -107 dBc/Hz phase noise at 1 MHz offset; 0.41 psec jitter; and current consumption is 102 mA from a 1.8 V supply.