GaAs-Membrane-Diode Mixer for Operation at 2.5 THz

A prototype mixer designed for operation at input frequencies near 2.5 THz incorporates a planar Schottky-barrier diode and a radio-frequency (RF) filter that are parts of an integrated circuit on a GaAs membrane strip, plus several other unique features for which there are numerous potential applications. This mixer is intended to provide a less expensive, more reliable alternative to older whisker-contact-diode mixers. The components of the mixer are integrated into a robust package with an overall volume <1 in.3 (<16 cm3). The design can readily be scaled to higher and lower frequencies.