A High-Performance 8–12 GHz CMOS LNA for Radio Astronomy with Minimum NF

Detection of weak radio signals and communications from far astronomical sources is critical in radio astronomy, as this field improves our understanding of the universe. A good noise reduction level during amplification also requires the inclusion of an LNA for the amplification process. The LNA topology includes a pi-type filter for matching the input impedance, common drain for the matching of the output impedance, and feedback network configurations that minimize noise. The LNA works over the whole X-band frequency range of 8–12 GHz. The device has been fabricated with 90nm CMOS technology. The device exhibits an average noise figure of 2.6 dB. Its minimum NF is 2.2 dB. In addition, it yields a maximum power gain of 44 dB. Eventually, this approach helps radio astronomers in the identification of new astronomical events through enhanced communication systems.