Design and characterization of high performance 60 GHz pseudomorphic MODFET LNAs in CPW-technology based on accurate S-parameter and noise models

An accurate database for active and passive MMIC components valid up to millimeter-wave frequencies has been established. The CAE models for the transistors and the passive CPW-components; which include the coplanar T-junction, are derived from on-wafer S-parameter measurements up to 63 GHz. For noise modeling of the MODFETs up to millimeter-wave frequencies, an approach based on the temperature noise model reported by M.W. Pospiezalski (1989) has been used. The parameter T_d, which is required for the temperature model, is extracted from on-wafer noise parameter measurements up to 18 GHz. Using this database, the authors have designed and fabricated low-noise V -band two-stage amplifiers, using pseudomorphic MODFETs on a GaAs substrate, which have a performance of 10.5-dB gain and 5.2-dB noise figure at 58.5 GHz. Very good agreement between simulated and measured MMIC gain and noise performance is achieved up to V-band