KONERU LAKSHMAIAH EDUCATION FOUNDATION

(Deemed to be University estd, u/s, 3 of the UGC Act, 1956)

(NAAC Accredited “A++” Grade University)

Green Fields, Guntur District, A.P., India – 522502

Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering

(DST - FIST Sponsored Department)

B.Tech. III ECE PROGRAM

A.Y.2023-24 ODD, Semester-I
21EC3061 Analog VLSI Design
CO1

Session 6: Common Gate and cascode amplifier

1. Course Description (Description of the subject)

Analog VLSI Design is a course offered to create academically and practically skilled
students in designing analog circuits required as building blocks for real-time applications.
This course provides insights into amplifiers, Op-amps and mixer circuits. During this course,
the students will learn about analyzing the different parameters of a circuit by varying loads
and configurations.

2. Aim

The aim of learning about Common Gate (CG) and Cascode amplifiers is to understand and
analyze different configurations of field-effect transistor (FET) amplifiers and their
applications. These amplifier topologies offer specific advantages and characteristics that
make them suitable for various circuit designs.

3. Instructional Objectives (Course Objectives)

 Apply the fundamentals of MOS transistors for the design of single stage amplifiers.
 Realize the active & passive current Mirrors and analyze the differential amplifiers
with qualitative and quantative approaches.
 Analyze the CMOS Op Amps, and various types of Op Amps with qualitative and
quantative approaches.
 Analyze the high frequency response of CS, CG and CD amplifiers and noise analysis
of various amplifiers and mixers.

4. Learning Outcomes (Course Outcome)

CO1: Apply the fundamentals of MOS transistors for the design of single stage amplifiers.

5. Module Description (CO-1 Description)

Remember the basics properties of MOS Devices. Understand the functionality and Electrical
Properties of MOS Devices. Understand and apply the concept of various amplifiers to find
the circuit parameters.

6. Session Introduction

“Common Gate and cascode amplifier”

The session provides insights to design a simple CS single stage amplifier and study different
parameters affecting the gain of the amplifier.

7. Session description

7.1 CG Amplifier

A Common Gate (CG) amplifier is a field-effect transistor (FET) amplifier configuration

where the gate terminal of the FET is the input, the source terminal is the output, and the
drain terminal is typically connected to a supply voltage. The CG amplifier offers certain
advantages and characteristics that make it suitable for specific circuit applications. Here are
some key points about the CG amplifier:

1. Voltage Gain: The CG amplifier provides a voltage gain that is less than unity (less than
1). It is commonly used as a buffer or impedance matching stage, where the primary goal is
to provide low output impedance and high input impedance without significant voltage
amplification.

2. Input and Output Impedance: The CG amplifier exhibits a relatively low input impedance,
making it less sensitive to the driving source impedance. On the other hand, it provides a
relatively high output impedance, which can help in isolation and impedance matching
between stages.

3. Signal Phase: The CG amplifier exhibits a 180-degree phase shift between the input and
output signals. This phase inversion can be useful in certain circuit applications, such as
signal cancellation or phase-sensitive detection.

4. Biasing: Proper biasing is essential for the CG amplifier to operate in its linear region.
Biasing involves setting the DC voltages at the gate and drain terminals to establish the
desired operating point and to ensure that the FET remains in its active region.

5. Stability: The CG amplifier can be prone to stability issues due to the potential for parasitic
capacitances at the input and output terminals. Careful attention should be given to layout and
compensation techniques to maintain stability and prevent oscillations.

6. Noise Performance: The CG amplifier has lower noise figure compared to other FET
amplifier configurations, such as the Common Source amplifier. This makes it suitable for
low-noise applications, such as in RF front-end circuits.

7. Applications: The CG amplifier finds applications in various areas, including RF

amplifiers, mixers, oscillators, and high-frequency communication systems. It is particularly
useful in circuits where low output impedance, high input impedance, and moderate voltage
gain are required.
 Fig.1 CG Amplifier

Fig.2 Small Signal equivalent of CG Amplifier

(1)

Fig.3 Circuit for calculating input impedance of CG amplifier

Input impedance

(2)
Fig.3 Equivalent small signal circuit to calculate the output impedance of CG amplifier

(3)

7.2 Cascode Stage:

Fig.4 Cascode stage amplifier

A cascode stage amplifier is a configuration that combines two transistors in a stacked

arrangement to provide certain advantages in amplification. Here are some key points about
the cascode stage amplifier:

1. Configuration: The cascode configuration consists of two transistors, typically a common-

source field-effect transistor (FET), connected in series. The output of the first transistor is
connected to the input of the second transistor.

2. Gain and Bandwidth: The cascode stage amplifier offers high gain and increased
bandwidth compared to a single transistor amplifier. It achieves this by combining the voltage
gain of the first transistor with the current gain of the second transistor.

3. Improved Linearity: The cascode configuration enhances linearity by reducing the Miller
effect, which is the capacitance between the input and output of a single transistor. By
isolating the input and output stages, the cascode stage minimizes the impact of this
capacitance, leading to improved linearity.
4. High Input and Output Impedance: The cascode configuration provides high input and
output impedance. The input impedance is determined primarily by the first transistor, while
the output impedance is determined by the second transistor. This characteristic makes the
cascode stage suitable for impedance matching and isolation in various circuit applications.

5. Biasing: Proper biasing is critical for the cascode stage amplifier to operate in its linear
region. Biasing involves setting the DC voltages and currents of both transistors to establish
the desired operating point and ensure stable and optimal performance.

6. Stability and Compensation: Cascode amplifiers can exhibit stability challenges due to
potential parasitic capacitances and interactions between the two transistors. Appropriate
compensation techniques, such as including external compensation capacitors, can be
employed to maintain stability and prevent oscillations.

7. Applications: Cascode stage amplifiers are commonly used in applications where high
gain, increased bandwidth, and improved linearity are essential. They find use in RF
amplifiers, high-frequency mixers, voltage regulators, and other high-performance circuits.

Fig. 5 Output impedance calculation

(4)

(5)

(6)

8. Activities/ Case studies/related to the session

1.Design and Simulation: Use circuit simulation software (e.g., LTSpice, Cadence, or
Multisim) to design and simulate CG and cascode amplifiers. Vary different parameters such
as biasing conditions, load resistors, and input signals to observe the impact on gain,
frequency response, and other performance characteristics. Compare the results of the CG
and cascode amplifiers to understand their differences.
2. Performance Comparison: Select a specific application or circuit requirement (e.g., low
noise amplifier, high-frequency amplifier) and compare the performance of CG and cascode
amplifiers in meeting those requirements. Analyze parameters such as gain, bandwidth,
input/output impedance, stability, and linearity to determine which amplifier configuration is
better suited for the given application.

9. Examples & contemporary extracts of articles/ practices to convey the idea of the
session

Example 1: "Design and Analysis of a Cascode Amplifier for High-Frequency Applications"

Contemporary Extract: "In this study, we present the design and analysis of a cascode
amplifier for high-frequency applications. The cascode configuration is chosen for its ability
to provide high gain, improved linearity, and enhanced frequency response. The amplifier is
implemented using state-of-the-art CMOS technology, allowing for compact and low-power
operation. Extensive simulations and measurements are performed to validate the
performance of the amplifier, showing excellent linearity and wideband response. The
cascode amplifier is found to be suitable for applications such as RF front-ends and wireless
communication systems, where high gain and frequency agility are crucial."

Example 2: "Enhancing the Performance of Common Gate Amplifiers through Source

Degeneration"

Contemporary Extract: "This article explores the concept of source degeneration in common
gate (CG) amplifiers to improve their performance characteristics. By introducing a series
resistor in the source terminal, negative feedback is applied to the amplifier circuit, resulting
in enhanced stability, reduced sensitivity to parameter variations, and improved linearity.
Theoretical analysis and simulation results demonstrate that source degeneration effectively
increases the input and output impedance, suppresses gain peaking, and mitigates the effects
of parasitic capacitances. The practical implementation and experimental results of a source-
degenerated CG amplifier further support the efficacy of this technique in achieving high-
performance amplification in various applications, including audio amplifiers and RF
systems."

10. SAQ's-Self Assessment Questions

1. The Common-Gate (CG) amplifier is a:

a) Voltage amplifier

b) Current amplifier

c) Power amplifier

d) Frequency modulator
2. In the CG amplifier, the input signal is applied to the:

a) Gate terminal

b) Source terminal

c) Drain terminal

d) Body terminal

3. The CG amplifier provides a:

a) High input impedance and low voltage gain

b) Low input impedance and high voltage gain

c) High input impedance and high voltage gain

d) Low input impedance and low voltage gain

4. The load resistor in the CG amplifier is connected to the:

a) Drain terminal

b) Source terminal

c) Gate terminal

d) Body terminal

5. The small-signal voltage gain of the CG amplifier is primarily determined by the:

a) Transconductance parameter (gm)

b) Output resistance (rd)

c) Input capacitance (Cgs)

d) Bias current (ID)

6. The coupling capacitor in the CG amplifier is used to:

a) Block the DC component of the input signal

b) Provide negative feedback

c) Increase the input capacitance

d) Increase the output resistance

7. The CG amplifier exhibits a phase shift between input and output signals of:
 a) 0 degrees

b) 90 degrees

c) 180 degrees

d) 360 degrees

8. The biasing arrangement in the CG amplifier is used to:

a) Set the operating point of the transistor

b) Provide voltage gain

c) Provide current gain

d) Increase the bandwidth

9. The DC biasing voltage at the gate terminal of the CG amplifier is typically:

a) Greater than the threshold voltage (Vth)

b) Equal to the threshold voltage (Vth)

c) Less than the threshold voltage (Vth)

d) Independent of the threshold voltage (Vth)

10. The CG amplifier operates in which region of the MOSFET?

a) Saturation

b) Cut-off

c) Triode

d) Active

11. The Common-Drain (CD) amplifier is a:

a) Voltage amplifier

b) Current amplifier

c) Power amplifier

d) Frequency modulator

12. In the CD amplifier, the input signal is applied to the:

a) Gate terminal
 b) Source terminal

c) Drain terminal

d) Body terminal

13. The CD amplifier provides a:

a) High input impedance and low voltage gain

b) Low input impedance and high voltage gain

c) High input impedance and high voltage gain

d) Low input impedance and low voltage gain

14. The load resistor in the CD amplifier is connected to the:

a) Drain terminal

b) Source terminal

c) Gate terminal

d) Body terminal

15. The small-signal voltage gain of the CD amplifier is primarily determined by the:

a) Transconductance parameter (gm)

b) Output resistance (rd)

c) Input capacitance (Cgs)

d) Bias current (ID)

16. The coupling capacitor in the CD amplifier is used to:

a) Block the DC component of the input signal

b) Provide negative feedback

c) Increase the input capacitance

d) Increase the output resistance

17. The CD amplifier exhibits a phase shift between input and output signals of:

a) 0 degrees

b) 90 degrees
 c) 180 degrees

d) 360 degrees

18. The biasing arrangement in the CD amplifier is used to:

a) Set the operating point of the transistor

b) Provide voltage gain

c) Provide current gain

d) Increase the bandwidth

19. The DC biasing voltage at the gate terminal of the CD amplifier is typically:

a) Greater than the threshold voltage (Vth)

b) Equal to the threshold voltage (Vth)

c) Less than the threshold voltage (Vth)

d) Independent of the threshold voltage (Vth)

20. The CD amplifier operates in which region of the MOSFET?

a) Saturation

b) Cut-off

c) Triode

d) Active

11. Summary

 The Common Gate (CG) amplifier is a FET amplifier with low input impedance, high
output impedance, and voltage gain less than unity. It is commonly used as a buffer
between amplifier stages.
 The CG amplifier requires appropriate biasing and matching networks to meet
performance specifications.
 A cascode amplifier combines a common-source (CS) amplifier and a common-gate
(CG) amplifier, providing high input impedance, gain, and output impedance.
 The cascode configuration improves linearity by reducing the Miller capacitance
effect.
 Cascode amplifiers find applications in RF amplifiers, audio amplifiers, ADCs, and
DACs for their high gain and impedance characteristics.

12. Terminal Questions

1. What are the key characteristics of a Common Gate (CG) amplifier?
2. How does the voltage gain of a CG amplifier compare to unity?
3. What is the purpose of using a CG amplifier as a buffer between amplifier stages?
4. What factors should be considered when selecting biasing conditions for a CG amplifier?
5. How do input and output matching networks contribute to the performance of a CG
amplifier?
6. Explain the concept of a cascode amplifier and its configuration.
7. What advantages does a cascode amplifier offer compared to a single-stage amplifier?
8. Derive the gain equation for a cs amplifier with source degeneration
9. Derive the gain equation for a cs amplifier with source degeneration by considering the
channel length modulation and body biasing effect

13. Case Studies (Co Wise)

1. Case study for MOSFET basics:

Application: Power amplification in audio systems
Description: MOSFETs are commonly used in audio amplifiers due to their high power-
handling capabilities and low distortion. A case study could involve designing a high-fidelity
audio amplifier using MOSFETs, considering parameters such as power output, distortion,
and efficiency.

2. Case study for operating regions of a MOSFET:

Application: Digital logic gates
Description: MOSFETs are widely used in digital circuits to implement logic gates. A case
study could involve designing a digital circuit that utilizes MOSFETs in various operating
regions (cutoff, triode, and saturation) to demonstrate their switching characteristics and
understand their impact on digital signal processing.

3. Case study for VI characteristics of a MOSFET:

Application: Solar power conversion
Description: MOSFETs are utilized in solar power inverters for converting DC power
generated from solar panels into AC power suitable for household consumption. A case study
could involve analyzing the VI characteristics of a MOSFET in a solar inverter circuit,
considering factors such as efficiency, maximum power point tracking, and grid
synchronization.

14. Answer Key

1. a) Voltage amplifier

2. a) Gate terminal

3. c) High input impedance and high voltage gain

4. b) Source terminal

5. a) Transconductance parameter (gm)

6. a) Block the DC component of the input signal

7. c) 180 degrees

8. a) Set the operating point of the transistor

9. c) Less than the threshold voltage (Vth)

10. d) Active

11. a) Voltage amplifier

12. c) Drain terminal

13. a) High input impedance and low voltage gain

14. a) Drain terminal

15. b) Output resistance (rd)

16. a) Block the DC component of the input signal

17. a) 0 degrees

18. a) Set the operating point of the transistor

19. a) Greater than the threshold voltage (Vth)

20. c) Triode

15. Glossary

CG: Common Gate.

AV: Voltage Gain
Ri: Input Impedance
Ro: Output Impedance

16. References of books, sites, links

Text Books:

1) BehzadRazavi, “Design of Analog CMOS Integrated Circuits”, Tata Mc Graw Hill, (2005)

2) Jacob Baker, “CMOS Mixed Signal Circuit Design”, John Wiley, (2008)

Reference Books:

1) Neil H. E. Weste and David. Harris Ayan Banerjee, “CMOS VLSI Design” – Pearson
Education, 1999.
2) Gray& Mayer, “Analysis & Design of Analog Integrated Circuits”, 4th edition, Wiley,
(2001).17. Keywords

Web references:

1. https://www.coursera.org/learn/mosfet
2. https://nptel.ac.in/courses/108106068
3. https://www.coursera.org/learn/rf-mmwave-circuit-design#syllabus

17. Keywords

Common gate, Cascode amplifier, Gain