High-frequency sources based on LC topologies will be described in this chapter. Oscillators are needed to synchronise circuits in digital systems and as a clock source for digital signal generators such as the PRBS generator described in Chapter 6 of this book. In the clock conversion function of optical networking systems, LC oscillators are preferred due to their low jitter generation, or low phase noise when viewed in the frequency domain. RC oscillators are often used in the data and clock recovery function, because they can provide a wide tuning range and typically occupy only a small chip area. In this book, only LC oscillators are considered since these are the most attractive for high-frequency applications. As will be shown, LC oscillators can be used to generate output signals with a predictable oscillation frequency and low phase noise up to very high frequencies (e.g., even beyond f cross in bipolar circuit implementations).
Many tuneable LC oscillators apply a cross-coupled differential pair to undamp the LC-tank circuit, leading to the basic configuration shown in Fig. 7.1.
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(2008). Analysis and Design of High-Frequency LC-VCOs. In: Circuit and Interconnect Design for RF and High Bit-Rate Applications. Analog Circuits And Signal Processing Series. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4020-6884-3_7
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