Integrated back to back barrier-N-N+ varactor diode tripler using a split-waveguide block

The back-to-back barrier-N-N⁺ (bbBNN) varactor is a nonlinear device being developed for frequency multiplier applications above 100 GHz. Its symmetrical C-V characteristic, low series resistance, freedom from external bias and suitability to planarization make it an ideal choice for high frequency, low power, odd harmonic generation. In this paper, the performance of a 220-GHz waveguide tripler using, for the first time, a planar GaAs bbBNN device integrated on a quartz microstrip circuit is presented. A new split-waveguide block design has been employed to provide the proper embedding impedances to the device at the input and third harmonic output frequencies. A flange-to flange tripling efficiency of 7% has been obtained at 220 GHz with an output power in excess of 700 μW. This is believed to be the highest conversion efficiency yet reported for a tripler with an integrated device at this frequency. Theoretical calculations indicate that substantial improvement is possible with modest changes to the device and circuit parameters