Current amplitude control circuits suitable for current-mode oscillators

A novel current amplitude control circuit suitable for current-mode oscillators is proposed. The circuit is a modified version of the well-known Gilbert gain cell. The technique obtains independent control of oscillation amplitude and small-signal current gain. As an example, the amplitude control circuit is applied to a current-mode oscillator. Simulations were carried out using HSPICE with 0.8 μm Nortel BiCMOS technology and Motorola RF transistors. Simulated results demonstrate that the nonlinear current gain control circuit behaves in a well defined manner. Low distortion and high frequency oscillations are easily obtained when the circuit is applied to a current-mode oscillator