Inexpensive Packaged Subharmonic Down-Converter MMICs

Two packaged monolithic microwave integrated-circuit (MMIC) mixers have been designed to operate as subharmonically pumped frequency down-converters in receivers of satellite- or ground-based digital communication systems. One operates a radio frequency (RF) between 17 and 20 GHz, the other at an RF between 22 and 32 GHz (see Figure 1). These MMICs are of a type described in "MMIC Converters for K- and Ka-Band Communications" (LEW-16752), NASA Tech Briefs, Vol. 23, No. 7 (July 1999), page 59. The approach taken in developing this type of MMIC is one of minimizing costs by relying on well established design practices and mature, commercially available processes for fabrication of MMIC chips.