A 24-to-30 GHz Ultra-High-Linearity Down-Conversion Mixer for 5G Applications Using a New Linearization Method

Area of Science:

• Electrical Engineering
• RF and Microwave Engineering
• Integrated Circuit Design

Background:

• Active mixer linearity is crucial for communication systems.
• Existing linearization methods often increase complexity or power consumption.
• Input transistors typically limit mixer linearity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a new, efficient linearization method for active mixers.
• To improve input and output 1 dB compression points (IP1dB/OP1dB).
• To design and fabricate a high-linearity mixer for 5G applications.

Main Methods:

• Exploiting the "reverse uplift" phenomenon for linearization.
• Designing a double-balanced down-conversion mixer using a Gilbert-cell.
• Incorporating phase-adjusting inductors and a Marchand-balun-based output network.
• Fabrication in a 130 nm SiGe BiCMOS process.

Main Results:

• Achieved excellent IP1dB of +7.2~+10.1 dBm and average OP1dB of +5.4 dBm.
• Demonstrated state-of-the-art linearity performance in silicon-based mixers.
• Obtained a wide intermediate frequency (IF) bandwidth of 8 GHz (3 GHz to 11 GHz).
• Low power consumption (19.8 mW) and small occupied area (0.48 mm²).

Conclusions:

• The "reverse uplift" method offers an efficient approach to high-linearity mixer design.
• The fabricated mixer meets the demanding linearity and bandwidth requirements for 5G transceivers.
• This technique enables more efficient implementation of high-linearity circuits.