Efficient analysis methodologies for emerging oscillator configurations

Abstract

Oscillators enable a low-cost and compact implementation of radio-frequency identification (RFID) readers and radar systems, among other. The function integration comes at the cost of a more complex performance and a demanding analysis since the circuit must respond to several specifications, while maintaining the oscillation condition. Here a review of recently introduced semi-analytical formulations, intended for these oscillator-based circuits, is presented. They are based on the use of a numerical model of the standalone oscillator, extracted from harmonic-balance or envelope-transient simulations, which is introduced in an analytical description of the oscillator interaction with the external elements. Various types of formulations, applied to self-injection locked radar, RFID readers and super-regenerative oscillators, will be described and validated.