A power-efficient CMOS UWB signal-generation module

This paper presents a new carrier-based ultra-wideband (UWB) transmitter architecture and its CMOS implementation. The new transmitter topology adopts a double-stage switching to enhance RF-power efficiency, reduce dc-power consumption and circuit complexity. Fabricated using a 0.18-mum CMOS process, the UWB signal generation module includes an UWB sub-nanosecond-switching single-pole single-throw (SPST) switch and a tunable impulse generator. Measurement results show that the generated UWB signal has variable 10-dB signal bandwidths from 0.5 to 4 GHz and tunable central frequency covering the entire UWB frequency range of 3.1 to 10.6 GHz. The CMOS module consumes less than 2 mW DC power. The proposed carrier-based UWB transmitter and the demonstrated module provide an attractive means for UWB signal generation for both UWB communications and radar applications.