Multi-channel AlGaN/GaN lateral Schottky barrier diodes on low-resistivity silicon for sub-THz integrated circuits applications

This paper presents novel multi-channel RF lateral Schottky-barrier diodes (SBDs) based on AlGaN/GaN on low resistivity (LR) (σ = 0.02 Q.cm) silicon substrates. The developed technology offers a reduction of 37 % in onset voltage, V ON (from 1.34 to 0.84 V), and 36 % in ON-resistance, R ON (1.52 to 0.97 to Q.mm) as a result of lowering the Schottky barrier height, Φn, when compared to conventional lateral SBDs. No compromise in reverse-breakdown voltage and reverse-bias leakage current performance was observed as both multi-channel and conventional technologies exhibited VBV of (VBV > 30 V) and I R of (I R <; 38 μA/mm), respectively. Furthermore, a precise small-signal equivalent circuit model was developed and verified for frequencies up to 110 GHz. The fabricated devices exhibited cut-off frequencies of up to 0.6 THz, demonstrating the potential use of lateral AlGaN/GaN SBDs on LR silicon for high-efficiency, high-frequency integrated circuits applications