Ultra-Linear Superwideband Chirp Generator using Digital Compensation

A novel digital compensation technique is applied to linearize the frequency generation of a superwideband chirp. Ultra-linear, low-noise swept local oscillators (SLO) are critical to the two-tone dynamic range performance of compressive receivers. The proposed technique enables full software control of the chirp linearity, slope, and offset to allow automated real-time calibration and testing, including automatic compensation for temperature variation. This approach combines recently available commercial high-speed digital, mixed-signal, and analog integrated circuits along with microwave components to create a 15.5-24 GHz chirp over 60 nsec with <0.4% non-linearity. This technique for high speed chirp generation also has application to FMCW and pulse compression radar systems.