BIST scheme for RF VCOs allowing the self-correction of the cut

In order to implement a built-in self-test (BIST) strategy for a radio frequency (RF) LC-voltage controlled oscillator (VCO) devoted to WiMax applications, an exhaustive study of the fault coverage achievable for this block is carried out. The peak-to-peak value of the output voltage is shown to be the best quantity to monitor. Once the fault is detected, it is shown that the BIST can be exploited as well to trigger a feedback allowing, in some cases, the self-correction of the VCO. The complete system is designed using the STM CMOS 65 nm process.