A 108–170-GHz ×6 Amplifier-Multiplier Chain with 16-dBm Output Power and ＞29.5-dBc Harmonics Rejection in 130-nm SiGe Process

This paper presents a broadband ×6 amplifier-multiplier chain (AMC) implemented in a 130-nm SiGe BiCMOS process, comprising a differential tripler-driver amplifier, a push-push doubler, and a 95–185GHz power amplifier (PA). A three-conductor coupling-line-based reverse-side grounded balun is proposed to achieve wideband single-ended-to-differential conversion with high common-mode rejection. To ensure stable operation and broadband harmonics suppression, a stability-enhanced tripler core and hybrid high-order harmonic-rejection matching networks are developed. In addition, a compact 2-way PA with broadband staggered matching is employed to deliver a highly flat, high-power output. The fabricated AMC achieves a measured 3-dB bandwidth of 62 GHz (108–170GHz), a record peak output power of 16 dBm, and harmonics rejection exceeding 29.5 dBc. The AMC has a footprint of 0.98×2.02 mm2, with a total DC power consumption of 1100 mW. This high-performance design is well-suited for broadband signal sources in D-band communication and microwave measurement systems.