AlGaN/GaN varactor diode for integration in HEMT circuits

The fabrication and characterisation of metal-semiconductor-metal (MSM) diodes above an AlGaN/GaN HEMT layer system for varactor applications are reported. Device fabrication uses standard HEMT processing steps, allowing integration in HEMT circuits without the need of sophisticated growth or etching techniques. Capacitance-voltage measurements exhibit C/sub MAX//C/sub MIN/ ratios up to 100, tunable by the electrode geometry. These results exceed best values for published heterostructure varactor diodes. Fabrication of AlGaN/GaN HEMTs on the same layer system with identical technology prove the potential for monolithic integration.