Design and optimization of low-noise oscillators using nonlinear CAD tools

The design of low phase noise oscillators has been both cultured for a long time and frequently labeled as "black magic". In this paper, the aim is to first show a novel mathematical approach which considers all noise contribution and allows both the calculation and optimization of the phase noise of an oscillator with arbitrary topologies. After explaining the physics and mathematical background, we will show three examples: a 10 MHz crystal oscillator, an 800 MHz VCO and a 39 GHz millimeter-wave oscillator.<
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