Common base HBTs for Ka-band applications

Abstract
It has been commonly accepted that common-base (CB) HBTs are more suitable for millimeter-wave power amplifiers than common-emitter HBTs due to their superior gain. However, the essential gain behavior of CB HBTs is not well understood in detail, and thus the factors limiting their mm-wave performance are not yet clarified. In this work, basic design guidelines of CB HBTs are presented based on a detailed gain performance analysis. In particular, we stress the importance of improving the f/sub T/ at high collector voltages and reducing the feedback component of wire parasitic capacitance. The analysis is in good agreement with the measured RF performance of the fabricated HBTs.

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