Start-up and frequency stability in high-frequency oscillators

Abstract

Start-up criteria in harmonic oscillators are explored. Conventional criteria for start-up prediction are shown to be necessary but not always sufficient for high-frequency oscillators, due to the effects of parasitic elements. Design methods are derived to allow design of reliable oscillators with a well-defined frequency of oscillation. The theory is confirmed with the design, fabrication, and characterization of a 2-GHz monolithic LC oscillator.< <ETX xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">&gt;</ETX>