A low-power low-noise accurate linear-in-dB variable-gain amplifier with 500-MHz bandwidth

A linear-in-dB variable-gain amplifier (VGA) using a pre-distortion circuit to generate the gain-control signal is fabricated in a BiCMOS process with f/sub T/=20 GHz. The VGA comprises two cascaded stages of signal-summing VGA and has a variable-gain range of over 70 dB. It can operate at up to 500 MHz and dissipates 36 mW from a 3-V supply. A noise figure of below 5 dB and IIP3 of over -38 dBm at 43-dB gain were obtained. The VGA achieved a gain error of less than 2 dB over 70-dB gain range, and it occupies approximately 1 mm/sup 2/. The VGA is applicable to future code division multiple access (CDMA) receivers.