Multi-band Wide Tuning Range CMOS VCO with Hybrid Inductor for LTE Standard

A multi-band low phase noise CMOS voltage controlled oscillator (VCO) with wide frequency tuning range is presented for LTE standard. For very wide tunability, Hybrid Inductor which uses both bondwire inductor and planar spiral inductor in the same area, is proposed. This approach improves phase noise and tuning range characteristics without additional area loss. The concept is demonstrated through the design of an LC VCO in a 65nm CMOS technology. Simulation results show that the proposed multi-band VCO operates from 2.5 GHz to 5.5 GHz with phase noise of -127 and -123 dBc/Hz at 1 MHz offset frequency, respectively and consumes 8.5 mA from 1.2 V supply.