Bias variation detection in RF amplifiers using differential OBIST

Abstract

Oscillation-based built-in self-testing with differential power detection has been shown to be a promising method for detecting degradation in radio frequency (RF) amplifiers. We demonstrate the use of the method to detect supply voltage decrease and base current variation. The efficacy of the approach is verified using simulated results of a 2.4 GHz low-noise amplifier (LNA). It is shown that these variations can be detected by using only power detection.