Low-noise amplifiers-then and now

The evolution in the performance of low-noise amplifiers (LNAs) has been dynamic over the past years. From the early LNAs that were complex, large, and heavy, to the present day InP high electron-mobility transistors that have virtually transformed the industry by their performance and extension into frequency bands that were not even considered in the past. This paper summarizes the transformation that has occurred in the LNA field, viewing where they were in the past, and where they are now.