A 94 GHz programmable frequency divider with inductive peaking for wideband and highly stable frequency synthesizers

Abstract

We present a fully programmable frequency divider in two different versions operating at input frequencies from DC to 94 GHz and 92 GHz, respectively, for the use in wideband and highly stable millimeter-wave frequency synthesizers. Using a parallel interface the division factors can be programmed to all integer values between 12 and 259. The high input speed in conjunction with programmability is achieved by a dual-modulus concept utilizing gates in emitter-coupled logic with inductive shunt peaking and by merging logic functions into flip-flops. The two versions utilize different differential spiral inductors. The frequency dividers were realized in a SiGe BiCMOS technology with fT = 250 GHz and are draining a current of 120 mA from a 3.3 V supply.