Multi-octave transformer coupled differential amplifier for high dynamic range

A novel PHEMT MMIC broadband amplifier circuit has been developed which has extremely high dynamic range, as characterized by its second order distortion products. Amplifier small signal bandwidth is 4 to 16 GHz. Measured OIP2 of this circuit exceeds 60 dBm with a 1 dB compression point of approximately 5 dBm. This circuit outperforms a conventional amplifier, fabricated on the same wafer, by more than 30 dB. Because it utilizes a combination of two circuit techniques, the approach can be applied to different device technologies, for optimization of noise figure or other performance parameters.