A novel design methodology for microwave true logarithmic amplifiers

A novel design methodology for True Logarithmic Amplifiers (TLA) operating at microwave frequencies is presented. The method is based on a better approximation of the ideal logarithmic characteristic allowing a major reduction of the logarithmic error and a higher dynamic range. Input output phase relationships are mantained via a novel equalising technique. Using the above methodology, a sample design of a TLA operating in the range 0.8-5 GHz, actually being fabricated, is presented.