Wideband 2GHz - 14GHz mixer with integrated LO frequency doubler

A new double-balanced mixer that can operate either as an up-converter or down-converter, with a very wide RF frequency range from 2GHz to 14GHz, the LTC5549 has been unveiled by linear technology. The device offers exceptionally high linearity of 24.4dBm IIP3 at 9GHz. it enables efficient microwave transmitter and receiver designs with an integrated LO buffer that needs only a 0dBm drive level, effectively eliminating an external high power LO amplifier circuit. Moreover, the LTC5549 has an integrated on-chip, switchable frequency doubler for LO signal, providing an option to use lower cost, commonly available low frequency synthesizers. The LTC5549 employs wideband integrated balun transformer optimized to extend RF frequency bandwidth from 2GHz to 14GHz while enabling single-ended operation. Its IF port also has wide bandwidth up to 6GHz. All three ports are 50O matched. The mixer offers high port-to-port isolation, minimizing undesirable LO leakage, and easing external filtering requirements. The LTC5549’s performance enhances a wide range of microwave applications including microwave backhaul, high unlicensed band LTE-Advanced base stations, satellite broadband radios, radar systems, X-band and Ku band transceivers, test equipment and satellite modems, says the company.