60GHz CMOS differential and transformer-coupled power amplifier for compact design

Abstract

A 57-65 GHz differential and transformer-coupled power amplifier using a commercial 90 nm digital CMOS process is presented. On-chip transformers combine bias, stability and input/interstage matching networks for a compact design with an area of 0.15 mm2. The three-stage amplifier consumes 70 mA under 1.2 V supply voltage. The small-signal gain generally exceeds 15 dB with saturated output power levels over 12 dBm and associated peak power-added efficiency (PAE) greater than 20% (14% across the band).