Linearization Techniques for CMOS Low Noise Amplifiers: A Tutorial

This tutorial catalogues and analyzes previously reported CMOS low noise amplifier (LNA) linearization techniques. These techniques comprise eight categories: a) feedback; b) harmonic termination; c) optimum biasing; d) feedforward; e) derivative superposition (DS); f) IM2 injection; g) noise/distortion cancellation; and h) post-distortion. This paper also addresses broadband-LNA-linearization issues for emerging reconfigurable multiband/multistandard and wideband transceivers. Furthermore, we highlight the impact of CMOS technology scaling on linearity and outline how to design a linear LNA in a deep submicrometer process. Finally, general design guidelines for high-linearity LNAs are provided.