Digitally Reconfigurable D-Band ×7/×9 Frequency Multiplier Employing an Up/Down-Conversion Single-Sideband Mixer in SiGe

In this paper, we present the concept, design, and measurement results of a digitally reconfigurable D-band (110–170GHz) frequency multiplier. By employing a digitally controlled phase inverter in one I/Q path of a single-sideband mixer, it becomes possible to select whether the upper or lower sideband is suppressed. This up/down-conversion single-sideband mixer (UDSSBM) is then used to mix an octupler output signal with the fundamental frequency, resulting in a reconfigurable ×7 or ×9 D-band frequency multiplier. Measurements demonstrate that the entire 43% relative D-band bandwidth can be covered with only a 5.9 dB output power variation, while the input signal source required only 27% relative bandwidth.