LTC5549 is a new type of double-balanced mixer, which can be used as both an up-converter and a down-converter. Its RF frequency range is from 2GHz to 14GHz, which is very wide. It has been introduced through linear technology.
The device has an ultra-high linearity of 24.4dBm IIP3 at 9GHz. It utilizes an integrated LO buffer to implement an efficient microwave transmitter and receiver design. The buffer only requires a drive level of 0dBm, which effectively eliminates external high-power LO amplifier circuits. In addition, the LTC5549 has an integrated on-chip switchable frequency multiplier for LO signals, providing a choice of lower-cost synthesizers that are generally less expensive to use. The LTC5549 uses an optimized broadband integrated balun transformer to extend the RF frequency bandwidth from 2GHz to 14GHz, while enabling single-ended operation. Its IF port also has broadband up to 6GHz. All three ports are matched to 50Ω. The mixer provides high port-to-port isolation, minimizes unwanted LO leakage, and reduces external filtering requirements.
The company said that the performance of the LTC5549 enhances various 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.
