Design, characterization and modelling of RF-specific components
In design kits RF-specific components e.g. integrated inductors and varactors are often not very well supported. This often is due to the small expert knowledge in the foundries, but also to the greatly varied requirements of various application ranges. For optimal designs the construction of own inductors is unavoidable and also at varactors an optimization potential exists.
Procedure at the design of integrated inductors
1. Simulation and comparison of various geometries
- Despite of the growing efficiency of computers, 3D-EM-simulation (e.g. with CST MWS) is still relatively time-consuming.
- 2D and 2.5-D-solvers are clearly quicker, but more imprecise
2.Testing by S-parameter measuring at an inductor test field
- Inductor test field with deembedding structures for excluding parasitics of pads and leads.
- Determination of inductivity and quality factor from the S-parameters
3. Modelling
- Physically meaningful equivalent circuit diagram
- The values of the components are fitted to the measuring results
