A 17 GHz dual-modulus prescaler in 120 nm CMOS

A completely integrated 17 GHz prescaler with programmable ratios of 4 and 5 is presented. The prescaler uses high speed differential current-mode logic and merged AND-gates. Over a band of 15 GHz the prescaler features an enhanced input sensitivity of less than 0 dBm. The circuit draws 47 mA from a single 1.5 V supply. An output buffer is also included in the circuit to drive 50 /spl Omega/ loads. The circuit is manufactured in a 120 nm CMOS technology.