Design and Optimization of a Wideband Low-Noise Amplifier for 6G mmWave Applications

Abstract

The even speedier advance of sixth-generation (6G) wireless communication systems requires the creation of high-performance millimeter-wave (mmWave) radio frequency (RF) front-end components that have the ability to work against large bandwidths with a greater gain and noise performance. Low-noise amplifier (LNA) is one of these elements providing that the overall sensitivity of the receiver chain, as well as the fidelity of the signal is largely dependent on it. The following paper illustrates the design and optimization of a Wideband LNA centered at mmWave 24-40 GHz band that contains several key 6G communication channels such as 28 GHz and 38 GHz bands. The advanced LNA architecture is a multi-cascade architecture with the source degeneration technology and inter-stage LC matching networks to bring the appropriate compromise between gain, noise figure (NF) and bandwidth. This design uses the 65nm CMOS technology that offers a low cost chip and supply of scalable integration into the new generation wireless systems. The main performance parameters consist of best gain of 21.8 dB, minimum NF of 2.5 dB and input reflection coefficient (S11) less than -10 dB throughout the whole L-band of 16 GHz. Resistive loading and feedback methods are used, and the stability is guaranteed up to the operating band. Schematic-level simulations are run with Key sight Advanced Design System (ADS) to achieve robust design as well as EM layout-aware simulations with CST Microwave Studio to achieve layout feasibility. The layout and package interactions have also been considered, and the design is able to take into account the effects of layout and package interaction through parasitic-aware modeling. The proposed LNA, due to its optimized performance footprint of the layout, energy consumption, and suitability for 6G-based mobile devices, small cell base stations, and IoT hubs is likely to be embedded with ease. This paper brings to the table a validated and feasible implementation methodology of wideband mmWave LNA design and establishes a platform on how the RF front-end will be integrated in more advanced 6G communication platforms.