Theory of a Negative-Resistance Transmission Line Amplifier with Distributed Noise Generators

Abstract

A transmission line with distributed positive and negative resistances as well as with distributed noise generators is treated. Gain and noise factor are derived as a function of boundary conditions, matching conditions and distributed noise. It is found that low-noise amplification can be achieved on such a line provided the line is characterized by high gain per unit length, high total gain, good matching, and low distributed noise. A distortionless active line for such low-noise amplifiers appears attractive.