An in-depth analysis of the oscillation modes in free-running oscillators loaded with multiresonance networks is presented. The analysis illustrates the mechanisms for the generation and stabilization of the various periodic modes and establishes the conditions for existence of a single stable periodic mode in distinct regions of the parameter plane. The mechanisms for the generation and stabilization of quasi-periodic regimes, with two concurrent oscillations, are also analyzed, considering different situations in terms of two relevant poles. The stability analysis of quasi-periodic solutions, derived in terms of admittance functions, can be applied to circuits simulated with harmonic balance, under the assumption of high quality factor resonators. The impact of the transistor biasing on the stability properties of the quasi-periodic regimes has been analyzed, demonstrating that it can be used to isolate the quasi-periodic solution from the periodic ones. The analysis procedures have been applied to a practical oscillator based on two cross-coupled transistors at the two frequencies 900 MHz and 2.5 GHz. The case of two independent oscillations operating in a synchronized regime is also analyzed, as well as its impact on the phase-noise behavior.

This work has been funded by the Spanish Government under contract TEC2014-60283-C3-1-R, the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF/FEDER) and the Parliament of Cantabria (12.JP02.64069).