A precise decibel-linear programmable-gain amplifier for ultrasound imaging receivers
Journal
International Symposium on VLSI Design, Automation, and Test (VLSI-DAT)
Date Issued
2016
Author(s)
Abstract
In this paper, a novel programmable-gain amplifier (PGA) with precise dB-linear control is presented for medical ultrasound imaging. To obtain small gain step and wide gain range simultaneously, the pseudo- and the actual-exponential approximation are combined as a hybrid-type. Considering the gain accuracy of each control word, the two type controls are realized in a single stage amplifier in a proper layout manner. After the gain control stage, a fixed-gain amplifier (FGA) is cascaded for enough gain and output swing. Fabricated in a 0.18-�gm CMOS process, the proposed PGA exhibits a 34.4-dB total gain range with a 0.73-dB step and 0.27-dB error. The core circuit consumes a dc power of 3.42 mA from a 1.8-V supply voltage while the chip occupies an area of 0.2 mm2.
SDGs
Type
conference paper