Parametric Amplification of Millimeter Waves Using Wafer Diodes: Results, Potentials, and Limitations (Correspondence)

Theoretical considerations and measurements on wafer varactors using Schottky-Barrier junctions show their feasibility for millimeter-wave and possibly low submilliieter-wave frequencies. A degenerate parametric amplifier is described which can be electronically tuned over a wide range (Δ∮=2 GHz)around24 GHz and reaches a very low noise temperature (<70°K) when cooled.