So far, we have mainly been discussing series type noise sources, i.e., noise sources where neither anode nor cathode are connected to ground. Another common design is shown here – the shunt configuration (one port of the noise generation element grounded).

The assembly, more or less just a little blob of solder with a few tiny parts inside… mostly, 0603 SMD format. The output attenuator (not shown) is a 14.5 dB(!), 18 GHz coaxial attenuator.

Some quick measurements, at bias currents of 2.5, 5 and 7 mA…. still, there seems to be a lot of 1/f noise (increase of noise power at lower frequencies). This is model #1, with a 22 nF capacitor (see schematic)

Don’t really see any advantage over the series variant of the noise source. But will test further.

…Progress on another front, ordered a set of PCBs – they can be used for various noise source configurations. Not yet a “prototype”, but need to see what kind of GHz performance is available from such design, and how reproducible it is. No current source yet on this PCB – will add later, or on a separate board – to limit shielding to the RF section.