A 111.5GHz-to-163.6GHz 37.9%-Tuning-Range -200.3dBc/Hz-FoMT VCO Employing Hybrid Coarse-Magnetic-Tuning and Fine-Capacitive-Tuning Techniques

A sub-THz VCO employs hybrid tuning techniques to achieve ultra-wide frequency tuning range with high Qtank and low phase noise. Coarse magnetic tuning features a compact 12-section 3-layer stacked transformer exploiting only maximum QL points while fine capacitive tuning utilizes a 3-section customized high-QC MOM variable capacitors. The VCO measures 37.9% FTR from 111.5GHz to 163.6GHz and PN@10MHz offset of -114.2dBc/Hz while consuming 4.5-6.0mW, resulting in the best FoM of -188.8dBc/Hz and FoMT of -200.3dBc/Hz.