A novel on-chip protection circuit for RFICs implemented in D-mode pHEMT technology

Abstract

This paper presents development of novel circuitry that protects circuits developed in pHEMT technology with minimal impact on RF performance. Reduced on-state resistance, low parasitic capacitance, variable trigger voltage, and small physical size allow the protection circuit to be an attractive solution for ESD protection. Implementation of the circuit in a wideband low noise amplifier (LNA) is presented.