A Frequency-Domain Transfer Model for Predicting FM Error of FMCW Radar Chirp Generators

Yue Zhu, Kaige Wang, Dalin Li, Chunqi Shi, Leilei Huang, Runxi Zhang, Hao Deng, Jinghong Chen

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

This paper proposes a frequency-domain model for fast and accurate prediction of frequency modulation (FM) error in frequency-modulated continuous wave (FMCW) radar chirp generators. Obtaining FM error from the output frequency of a phase-locked loop (PLL) requires lengthy simulation times due to the simulator's limited frequency quantization accuracy, which can result in discrepancies between simulated and actual performance. To address this issue, the feedback signal (DIV) sent to the phase-frequency detector (PFD) is employed in this study to quickly and accurately determine the FM error through spectrum analysis. During frequency sweeps, the feedback signal with a relatively constant frequency receives the modulating signal directly. To validate the effectiveness of the proposed model, a nested PLL-based frequency synthesizer operating from 24-27.52 GHz is designed in a 55-nm CMOS process. Measurement results show good agreement with those obtained from the model, with the difference between the simulated and measured root mean square (RMS) FM error being less than 22 kHz.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationISCAS 2025 - IEEE International Symposium on Circuits and Systems, Proceedings
PublisherInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Inc.
ISBN (Electronic)9798350356830
DOIs
StatePublished - 2025
Event2025 IEEE International Symposium on Circuits and Systems, ISCAS 2025 - London, United Kingdom
Duration: 25 May 202528 May 2025

Publication series

NameProceedings - IEEE International Symposium on Circuits and Systems
ISSN (Print)0271-4310

Conference

Conference2025 IEEE International Symposium on Circuits and Systems, ISCAS 2025
Country/TerritoryUnited Kingdom
CityLondon
Period25/05/2528/05/25

Keywords

  • FWCW chirp generator
  • PLL
  • Verilog-A
  • chirp linearity
  • mmWave
  • radar
  • spectrum analysis

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