Wideband envelope detector for dynamic supply control in RFIC PA’s

Radio frequency integrated circuit power amplifiers (RFIC PAs) operating at microwave frequencies (e.g. 5 to 6 GHz) and at millimeter-wave (mm-wave) frequencies (e.g. 60 GHz) are electronic components used in the front-end modules (close to the antenna) of mobile communication equipment such as cellular handsets. Envelope detectors constitute a critical component in a newly proposed dynamic biasing technique for RFIC PAs based on positive envelope feedback, for power efficiency improvement and distortion reduction. However, it requires a different type of detector from what has been proposed so far in the scientific literature, given the specific characteristics required for a positive envelope feedback embodiment. Hence Skyworks has identified the need to develop a new envelope detector for this purpose.
Therefore, this work will contribute to improve the competitiveness of Skyworks’ RFIC PA products, thereby contributing to this company’s economic success.

Faculty Supervisor:

Nicolas Constantin

Student:

Jean-Sébastien Dominique

Partner:

Skyworks Solutions Inc

Discipline:

Engineering - computer / electrical

Sector:

Information and communications technologies

University:

École de technologie supérieure