A radio frequency track-and-hold amplifier and fast-transient low dropout regulator -cum- latching current limiter for 6G communications

Abstract

Field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) are extensively applied in different fields, especially the satellite communication which would be integrated with the terrestrial network in the impending 6G communication. To accommodate higher requirements on the concurrent multiband processing capability, the direct sampling architecture becomes an optimum alternative for the embedded transceiver in the next-generation satellite-dedicated FPGA. Hence, as the core interface, a wideband (Ku band) radio frequency track-and-hold amplifier (RF THA) is worth further research. Due to the multi-processors’ integration trend, and the ever-increasing stringent requirements on power supplies of crucial blocks in the advanced FPGA, e.g., the programmable logics, a low dropout voltage regulator (LDO) that features excellent transient performance and high load current capability (>1A) is increasingly important. Moreover, considering the satellite application, a protection mechanism against the load anomalies is imperative to realize in the LDO to ensure the reliable operation of the FPGA in space. In this thesis, a single-to-differential sub-sampling RF THA featuring wide-bandwidth and high-linearity, and a fast-transient LDO with an innovative protection mechanism against load anomalies have been designed and monolithically realized.