Howtosignalprocessing
- How do RF mixers work?
- How to choose RF mixer?
- What are various types of mixers in RFD?
- What is Lo leakage?
How do RF mixers work?
A mixer takes an RF input signal at a frequency fRF, mixes it with a LO signal at a frequency fLO, and produces an IF output signal that consists of the sum and difference frequencies, fRF ± fLO.
How to choose RF mixer?
Simply stated, there are three basic steps: (1) Deciding on a surface-mount, connector, or plug-in version. (2) Selecting the mixer “Level”, which is the LO (local oscillator) drive power in dBm required for the application. (3) Picking a model that extends over the frequency range involved.
What are various types of mixers in RFD?
RF Mixer Types
The two main types are passive(using diode) and active(using BJTs or FETs). Further based on configurations and number of devices in use there are different types. They are unbalanced, single balanced, double balanced, triple balanced etc.
What is Lo leakage?
The local oscillator (LO), which drives the mixer, has leaked to the mixer's output port. There are also other paths for the LO to leak to the system output, such as through power supplies or across the silicon itself. Regardless of how the LO leaks out, it can be referred to as LOL.
