Ultra Wideband 43 GHz Preamplifier with up to 60 dB adjustable Gain for accurate Noise Figure Measurement of Cryogenic LNAs

Noise-sensitive applications such as scaleable control electronics for quantum computing or RADAR systems for space debris detection require a high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) to achieve the necessary sensitivity. Cryo cooling of the frontend electronics is a suitable approach. However, the low-temperature environment affects the operation of the used components resulting in trade-off considerations at the system design level. This work presents the design and implementation of a preamplifier for highly accurate noise figure (NF) measurements of cryogenically cooled low-noise amplifiers (LNA) in the single-digit noise temperature range. The proposed device is a 43 GHz wideband, temperature-controlled amplification system with a programmable gain of up to 60 dB. A complex three-path configurable circuit topology provides flexible high gain amplification over a broad bandwidth from 1 GHz to 44 GHz. In the scope of this work, the functionality of the preamplifier is characterized, and usability is demonstrated. The relative accuracy in the proof-of-concept scenario has increased by a factor of 80 with the utilization of the preamplifier