A monolithic GaAs 1 - 13-GHz traveling-wave amplifier

This paper describes a monolithic GaAs traveling-wave amplifier with 9-dB gain and ± 1-dB gain flatness in the 1-13-GHz frequency range. The circuit is realized in monolithic form on a 0.1-mm GaAs substrate with 50-Ω input and output lines. In this approach, GaAs FET´s periodically load input and output microstrip lines and provide the coupling between them with proper phase through their transconductance. Experimental results and the circuit details of such a structure are discussed. Initial results of a noise analysis and predictions on the noise performance are also given.