An effective linear phase modulator architecture for millimeter-wave applications

A simple hardware architecture suitable for effective realization of 360 degree linear microwave phase modulation is presented. The modulator is very attractive for many phase control and modulation functions required by emerging wireless systems at microwave and millimeter-wave frequencies. Performance results for a prototype modulator implementation at 18 GHz are presented. The circuitry contains only a single active component, is suitable for MMIC implementation, and is readily extended to millimeter-wave frequencies.