A 0.5-12 GHz hybrid matrix distributed amplifier using commercially available FETs

A matrix distributed amplifier for a coherent high-bit-rate optical receiver front-end is presented. A gain of 20 dB in the 0.5-12 GHz range with a noise figure of 5-8 dB over the whole frequency range has been obtained together with a low voltage standing wave ratio. The layout is very simple in comparison to other hybrid realizations reported in the literature and is fully related to the lumped elements of the circuit schematic. The computed results obtained using a small signal model for each FET agree rather well with measurements.<
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