A 10-bit active RF phase shifter for 5G wireless systems

Abstract This paper presents an active RF phase shifter with 10 bit control word targeted toward the upcoming 5G wireless systems. The circuit is designed and fabricated using 45 nm CMOS SOI technology. An IQ vector modulator (IQVM) topology is used which provides both amplitude and phase control. The design is programmable with exhaustive digital controls available for parameters like bias voltage, resonance frequency, and gain. The frequency of operation is tunable from 12.5 GHz to 15.7 GHz. The mean angular separation between phase points is 1.5 degree at optimum amplitude levels. The rms phase error over the operating band is as low as 0.8 degree. Active area occupied is 0.18 square millimeter. The total DC power consumed from 1 V supply is 75 mW