GaAs performance in Si technology: SiGe HBTs for mixed analog-digital applications

Summary form only given. Reviews the short but successful history of SiGe HBTs, from the first functionality demonstration in 1987 to the performance of a 1 GHz, 12-bit DAC in 1993. Availability of 60 GHz Fmax bipolar devices in a fully integrated 0.5/0.25 um BiCMOS process, allows high performance mixed signal applications to be implemented in Si technology, achieving unmatched performance and functionality. The intrinsic performance of SiGe transistors has been extended to 115 GHz fT with an Early voltage of 110 V, demonstrating the potential for microwave analog applications.