A High-Linearity, X-Band, SiGe Low-Noise Amplifier for Improved Dynamic Range in Next-Generation Radar and Wireless Systems

We present a high-dynamic range (HDR) X-band LNA implemented in silicon-germanium (SiGe) technology targeting high-performance radar and wireless communications applications. To our knowledge, this is the first Si-based LNA to achieve over 30 dB gain, 30 dBm of OTOI, and 2 dB noise figure at X-band. System-level performance simulations clearly show the benefits of using HDR LNAs in the receive chain. The performance of this SiGe HDR LNA compares very favorably with other state-of-the-art LNAs, highlighting the capabilities of SiGe technology for these types of applications.