A GaAs MMIC for a 2-7 GHz successive detection logarithmic amplifier

The author reports on a GaAs monolithic microwave integrated circuit (MMIC) for a six-chip successive detection logarithmic amplifier (SDLA) which operates over the frequency band of 2 to 7 GHz with a logging error within +or-1.25 dB over a 54-dB dynamic range. This is very close to the theoretical value of +or-1.1 dB for a 9-dB stage gain. The results represent the best published figures and lowest chip count per stage for both hybrid MIC and MMIC realizations of an SDLA above 2 GHz. A summary of the measured performance of the module at 31 degrees C is given.<>