Low-noise voltage-controlled oscillators using enhanced LC-tanks

Frequency synthesizers used in modern telecommunication systems, such as cellular telephones, need to have very low phase noise. Therefore, in the design of high performance frequency synthesizers using Phase Locked Loops (PLL), the Voltage-Controlled Oscillator (VCO) has become a key issue. The trend towards monolithic Integration poses some major challenges. This paper discusses the phase noise aspects of LC-tuned oscillators. A general formula is developed, based on the concepts of effective resistance and capacitance. The formula also applies for oscillators using active inductors. From these results the importance of an inductor with very low series resistance is apparent. To circumvent the technological limits given by an Inductor's series resistance, a presented enhanced LC-tank can be used to make a trade-off between noise and power.