Analysis of MOS cross-coupled LC-tank oscillators using short-channel device equations

New analytical techniques for estimating the large-signal periodic steady-state solution of MOS LC-tank oscillators using short-channel device equations are presented. These techniques allow us to make quantitative estimates of the oscillator steady-state performance without the need for time-consuming transient simulations using simulators such as SPICE. Further, our engineering techniques provide insight and quantitative understanding on the design of current-day, deep-submicron MOS LC-tank oscillators and serve as a starting point in a design strategy that includes complete phase noise/timing jitter analysis and optimization. Our analytical results for a cross-coupled LC-tank oscillator that was previously fabricated and tested are in good agreement with simulations using HSPICE.