Frequency Stabilization of a 100-GHz VCO Using Resonator-Locked Loops in CMOS 28-nm
Abstract
This brief presents a novel frequency-locking technique in which two off-tuned chopped active resonators define a reference frequency to which a 100GHz voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) is locked. Deviations from the reference frequency result in a power imbalance between the resonator outputs. This imbalance is detected and used as an error signal to restore the VCO frequency to the reference point. The loop operates without frequency dividers and off-chip references. The implementation, fabricated in a CMOS 28nm process, achieves a close-in phase noise suppression of up to 5.6dB at -3dBm output power, consuming only 24mW.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Radio Frequency Integrated Circuit Design
Advancements in PLL and VCO Technologies
Analog and Mixed-Signal Circuit Design
Publication details
- Journal / source
- IEEE Transactions on Circuits & Systems II Express Briefs
- Volume
- 73
- Issue
- 3
- Pages
- 278–282
- Publication date
- 3 February 2026