March 30, 2012 – Linear Technology Korea (CEO Hong Sa-gwak) announced the development of a down-conversion mixer (product name: LTC5544) with a high dynamic range operating from 4GHz to 6GHz. The LTC5544 mixer delivers high linearity with 25.9dBm IIP3 (Input Third-Order Intercept), as well as a high conversion gain of 7.4dB through its integrated on-chip IF amplifier, and a noise figure of 11.3dB. These performance characteristics provide excellent dynamic range performance for main receivers and digital predistortion receivers. Furthermore, the RF input of the LTC5544 can withstand strong interference signals without degrading the noise figure, thereby maintaining receiver sensitivity and improving robustness. The LTC5544 operates from a single 3.3V supply and minimizes power consumption while maintaining performance.
The 6GHz frequency of the LTC5544 is ideal for wireless systems such as P2P broadband microwave links, 5GHz unlicensed band WiMAX wireless, satellite receivers, radar systems, aviation, public safety wireless, and RF test systems.
The LTC5544 includes an on-chip integrated high-gain IF amplifier supporting IF frequencies up to 1GHz. Additionally, two RF balun transformers are integrated along with an LO buffer. Through this, RF and LO inputs can operate with single-ended 50Ω matching. The LO input requires only a +2dBm drive level. These features simplify the design and enable the use of smaller external components, making it possible to provide ultra-compact solutions.
The LTC5544 operates from a single 3.3V supply and consumes 194mA of current. The LTC5544 features a power-down function with 0.6µs turn-on and turn-off time, supporting Burst Mode® operation or TDD (time division duplexed) systems. When disabled, this device consumes a maximum of 500µA. The LTC5544 is available in a 16-pin 4mm x 4mm plastic QFN package and is currently available for immediate purchase. The product price is $8.50 per unit based on a quantity of 1,000 pieces. For more information, refer to www.linear.com/product/LTC5544.
Photo Caption: 6GHz High-Linearity Down-Conversion Mixer

Product Features: LTC5544

Parameter LTC5544
Operating Frequency 4 – 6 GHz
Input IP3 25.9 dBm
Conversion Gain 7.4 dB
Noise Figure (NF) 11.3 dB
NF @ 5dBm Blocking 16.9dB
Power Consumption 640 mW