Cross-Coupled Capacitor Frequency Multiplier for Millimeter-Wave Gain
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing frequency generators in electronic devices struggle to efficiently generate various frequencies, particularly millimeter waves, due to challenges in integrating multiple frequency generators, leading to difficulties in high integration and performance demands.
Innovation Solution
A frequency multiplier circuit incorporating cross-coupled capacitors and transistors to enhance frequency conversion gain without additional power consumption, utilizing capacitors connected to transistor gates to increase effective input voltage and transconductance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple frequency generators are mounted to support various frequencies, then frequency versatility is improved, but device complexity and integration difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single frequency generator that can generate multiple frequencies by using a frequency multiplication circuit. The circuit includes a core oscillator generating a base frequency and multiple frequency multiplication paths (2x, 4x, 8x) that can be selectively activated. This allows one generator to replace multiple generators, achieving frequency versatility while reducing device complexity and integration difficulty.
2Speed
If frequency multiplication is used to generate higher frequencies, then frequency range is improved, but conversion gain decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple frequency multiplication paths (2x, 4x, 8x) with a single core oscillator in an integrated circuit. By merging these functions into one unified structure with shared components and selective activation, the circuit achieves high conversion gain across multiple frequency ranges without the losses associated with separate cascaded multipliers.
3Speed
If traditional frequency multiplication circuits are used, then frequency range is extended, but signal loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs selectively activatable frequency multiplication paths where only the required multiplication factor is enabled at any given time. This dynamic activation approach prevents signal loss by avoiding unnecessary signal processing stages and allows the circuit to adapt to different frequency requirements efficiently, minimizing energy loss while extending frequency range.
Data Source
AI summary
A frequency multiplier includes a capacitor circuit having a plurality of capacitors therein, and is responsive to a differential input signal applied to an inverting input node and a non-inverting input node thereof. A frequency multiplication circuit (FMC) is provided, which has a plurality of transistors therein. The FMC is configured to receive components of the differential input signal passing through the plurality of capacitors, and multiply a frequency of the components of the differential input signal. A plurality of inductor loads are provided, which are connected to an inverting output node and a non-inverting output node of the FMC, and are configured to convert a current signal generated by the FMC into a voltage signal.