Mixed-signal instrumentation for large-signal device characterization and modelling

This thesis concentrates on the development of advanced large-signal measurement and characterization tools to support technology development, model extraction and validation, and power amplifier (PA) designs that address the newly introduced third and fourth generation (3G and 4G) wideband communication standards. By exploiting an innovative...

Design of Front-End Receiver Electronics for 3D Trans-Esophageal Echocardiography

The motivation behind this thesis is that cardio-vascular diseases claim the highest number of lives each year globally. In order to enhance the accuracy in diagnosis, construction of 3D images of the heart is required. From these images, precise information can be obtained regarding the 3D anatomy of the heart and its functioning. Trans...

Ultra Linear Low-loss Varactors & Circuits for Adaptive RF Systems

With the evolution of wireless communication, varactors can play an important role in enabling adaptive transceivers as well as phase-diversity systems. This thesis presents various varactor diode-based circuit topologies that facilitate RF adaptivity. The proposed varactor configurations can act as variable capacitors with high tuning range,...

RF Amplifier Design Techniques for Linearity and Dynamic Range

This thesis presents circuit- and device-level linearization techniques to reduce the intermodulation distortion as well as the DC power consumption in RF amplifier circuits. As a key method to accomplish the research goals presented in Chapter 1, a so-called orthogonal design approach is introduced that allows for an uncompromised optimization...