High-efficiency planar Schottky diode based submillimeter-wave frequency multipliers optimized for high-power operation

We report on a new series of millimeter and submillimeter-wave frequency multipliers specifically optimized for very high-power operation in order to meet the requirements of next generation terahertz instruments for Astrophysics, Planetary science, Earth science and radar imaging applications. New frequency multiplier chips have been designed and fabricated in the 100 GHz to 1 THz range focusing on higher power operation. Initial tests have shown efficiencies of around 30% for a single-chip 105-120 GHz tripler, and 25% for a single-chip 170-200 GHz doubler, when pumped with 500 mW. These results correspond to a factor of 2-3 improvement with regards to previous designs at these frequencies. Similar improvements are expected for the new designs at higher frequencies.