A 15.5 dB, 17 mW, 240 GHz amplifier in 65 nm CMOS by correct interpretation and implementation of maximum achievable gain

Abstract

Design of millimeter-wave (mm-wave) amplifiers beyond 100 GHz proves challenging. This thesis summarizes the challenges in mm-wave amplifier design as well as various approaches in dealing with them. A current review of the state of the art is also discussed. A gain-boosting technique based on the correct interpretation and implementation of the Maximum Achievable Gain $G_{max}$ is also introduced. Finally, a high gain, low power 240 GHz amplifier in 65 nm CMOS is presented, which shows the best performance among all other previously published works.