A transformer-loaded receiver front end for 2.4 GHz WLAN in 0.13 m CMOS technology

A 2.4 GHz radio frequency receiver front end with an on-chip transformer compliant with IEEE 802.11b/g standards is presented. Based on zero-IF receiver architecture, the front end comprises a variable gain common-source low noise amplifier with an on-chip transformer as its load and a high linear quadrature folded Gilbert mixer. As the load of the LNA, the on-chip transformer is optimized for lowest resistive loss and highest power gain. The whole front end draws 21 mA from 1.2 V supply, and the measured results show a double side band noise figure of 3.75 dB, –31 dBm IIP3 with 44 dB conversion gain at maximum gain setting. Implemented in 0.13 m CMOS technology, it occupies a 0.612 mm die size.