Heterostructure barrier Varactor Frequency Multipliers: Materials, Devices and Circuits

Paper in proceeding, 2001

The Heterostructure Barrier Varactor, HBV, diode is used in frequency multipliers at millimetre and sub millimetre wavelengths. Owing to its symmetrical properties only odd harmonics are generated, this greatly simplifies the design of frequency triplers and quintuplers. We report on new InP based material and device designs for planar, whisker contacted, and novel pillar structure HBVs. We present design methods with measured and simulated results. We also report on a new waveguide frequency tripler where HBV diodes are embedded in a microstrip environment together with the matching network for the fundamental and the third harmonic. Simulated results are presented for this new circuit topology, which is highly suitable for system integration