A 23.6 GHz sub-1/2- mu m E/D MODFET divide-by-32/64 static prescaler

An application-ready prescaler with performance competitive with state-of-the-art R&D dividers is reported. It was designed to be a high-performance replacement for standard ECL parts in instruments. It is fabricated in a proven self-aligned contact sub-1/2-micron GaAs-based E/D-MODFET IC process which utilizes side-wall-spacer self-alignment technology to obtain 0.3-0.5 mu m gate length with conventional high-throughput contact lithography. With pseudomorphic InGaAs channels the authors have demonstrated 30 MHz-23.6 GHz prescaler operation at room temperature. The performance improves at 0 degrees C, while at 70 degrees C the upper frequency typically drops by 2 GHz. Correct high-speed pulsed-mode operation requires (1) presetting which does not degrade the performance and (2) suppression of self-oscillation during quiet periods between pulse bursts.<
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