Abstract:
A radio-frequency (RF) integrated circuit is described. In one embodiment, the IC comprises multiple metal layers forming multiple transistors on a non-epitaxial substrate. The transistors are step and mirror symmetric. Also, the RF signal lines are on a top metal layer above all other metal layers and the power and ground planes are on a bottom metal layer below all other metal layers. The top and bottom metal layers are separated by a shield that extends beyond the RF signal lines by a distance that is at least the same distance that the shield is away from the RF lines. Low frequency signals are on signal lines below the top metal layer.
Abstract:
An integrated circuit inductor structure has a substrate disposed below an inductor. The structure also has plural conductive segments located between the substrate and the inductor. The conductive segments connect at substantially a point below the center of the inductor. An insulating layer lies between the inductor and the conductive segments.
Abstract:
A radio-frequency (RF) integrated circuit is described. In one embodiment, the IC comprises multiple metal layers forming multiple transistors on a non-epitaxial substrate. The transistors are step and mirror symmetric. Also, the RF signal lines are on a top metal layer above all other metal layers and the power and ground planes are on a bottom metal layer below all other metal layers. The top and bottom metal layers are separated by a shield that extends beyond the RF signal lines by a distance that is at least the same distance that the shield is away from the RF lines. Low frequency signals are on signal lines below the top metal layer.
Abstract:
The present invention provides a synthesizer having an efficient lock detect signal generator, an extended range VCO that can operate within any one of a plurality of adjacent characteristic curves defined by a plurality of adjacent regions, and a divide circuit implemented using only a single counter along with a decoder. This allows for a method of operating the synthesizer, methods of establishing or reestablishing a lock condition using the extended range VCO, and a method of designing a plurality of divide circuits which each use the same single counter and each use a different decoder.
Abstract:
An integrated circuit inductor structure has a substrate disposed below an inductor. The structure also has plural conductive segments located between the substrate and the inductor. The conductive segments connect at substantially a point below the center of the inductor. An insulating layer lies between the inductor and the conductive segments.