A comprehensive, adjustable approach for linearizing and broadening the gain characteristic of variable gain amplifiers

In this paper a comprehensive approach is presented to linearize and adjust gain characteristic of variable gain amplifiers (VGAs). It is also capable of increasing the output linear dynamic range of VGAs and modifying variation range of control voltage. The approach is able to change the voltage gain characteristic of an amplifier, even after fabrication, to a desired one by means of a digital control signal and a digital to analog converter. Using this approach, the gain of basic differential amplifier is controlled by two different predistorters, and adjustable dB-linear characteristics in range of greater than 60 dB are achieved. The approach, also, is applied to two conventional VGAs, the gain characteristic of first VGA is linearized, and in the second VGA, the linear dynamic range is expanded about 26 dB. The controller uses 1.2 V voltage supply, and simulations are done using 0.13 µm CMOS process model. The other characteristics of each mode of control are reported completely.