A phase tuned, fixed frequency dielectric resonator oscillator design

Microwave dielectric resonator oscillators (DRO) offer high performance in a small footprint. Phase locked DROs are essential components in microwave links, where phase noise is a critical parameter. A novel circuit topology is presented, applicable to fixed frequency, voltage controlled DROs, which results in improved phase noise performance. The theory behind the approach is presented along with the results achieved from the design produced by EADS Astrium, as part of a flight program.