Ultra Low Phase Noise 16GHz Oscillator Using a Distributed Bragg Resonator

This paper presents the design of a 16GHz oscillator using a high Q distributed Bragg resonator (DBR) with an aperiodic arrangement of high purity, low-loss alumina plates (∊r = 9.75, loss tangent of ≈ 1 × 10^-5 to 2 × 10^-5). The resonator demonstrates an unloaded Q up to 160,000 & the plates are held in place using Spira-Shield O-Ring gaskets to maintain mechanical stability. Preliminary phase noise measurements of -77dBc/Hz at 100Hz offset & -135dBc/Hz at 10kHz offset are presented.