Bi-Directional Vector Modulator/Active Phase Shifter

A method of active phase shifting using a bi-directional (BD) vector modulator, comprising:

• receiving an input signal by a quadrature phase coupler coupled to two first matching networks (MN1s), wherein the quadrature phase coupler converts the input signal to an I signal and a Q signal;
• amplifying the I signal by a first gain value using a first bi-directional variable gain amplifier (BD-VGA), wherein the first BD-VGA outputs an I′ signal onto a common node;
• amplifying the Q signal by a second gain value using a second BD-VGA, wherein the second BD-VGA outputs a Q′ signal onto the common node;
• and
• performing active current summing or current sharing at the common node, wherein the common node is coupled to a shared second matching network (MN2) for outputting an output signal, wherein the first and the second BD-VGAs share the same MN2, and wherein the BD vector modulator has adjustable input impedance and output impedance that match to the BD-VGAs for both switched amplifier directions.