Transformer-based marchand balun amplifier for wireless communication

Abstract

An amplifier includes a first and a second differential input ports, and a single-ended output port. The amplifier includes a first and a second transistors, each having a gate, source, and drain terminals. The source terminals are coupled to a reference plane and the gate terminals are coupled to the respective first and second differential input ports. The amplifier includes a Balun having a primary and a secondary transformer winding, the primary transformer winding having one end coupled to the drain terminal of the first transistor, an opposite end coupled to the drain terminal of the second transistor, and a center tap coupled to a bias voltage, and the secondary transformer winding is adjacent to the primary transformer winding and having one end coupled to the single-ended output port and an opposite end open circuited. An electromagnetic field generated at the primary induces a signal at the secondary transformer winding.