Linear Technology Introduces LTC559x Series of Dual Downconverting Mixers

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Linear Technology Corporation (Linear Technology Corporation) Release LTC559x series of four high dynamic range, two-channel downconverter mixer component, these devices covering 600MHz to 4.5GHz wireless infrastructure frequency range. The LTC5559x dual-channel mixer family features superior IIP3 (input 3rd-order intercept) of over 26dBm, low noise figure of less than 10dB, and high conversion gain of 8.5dB for MIMO (multi-input, multi-output) and multiple wideband The receiver provides excellent dynamic range performance. The LTC559x dual-channel mixer family offers best-in-class capability to maintain a low noise figure in the presence of strong blocking sources of interference and significantly enhance receiver sensitivity and robustness. Unlike other similar dual-channel mixers, the LTC559x series can operate from a single 3.3V supply without compromising performance, reducing power consumption by more than 24% compared to the nearest competing solution.

These four dual-channel mixers are optimized for improved performance in their frequency bands. All four devices are pin compatible for easy migration from one band to another.

Achieving high-performance, multi-channel receivers for next-generation 4G and other broadband wireless networks is challenging, and the LTC559x dual-channel mixer family is designed to meet this challenge. The low power consumption of this family of mixers simplifies the thermal challenges caused by the RRH (Remote RF Front End) implementation, which can accommodate up to 8 or 16 channel receivers in weather-proof sealed enclosures . Available in a 5mm x 5mm QFN package, these dual-channel mixers provide a highly compact solution footprint with minimal external components. The LTC559x family of devices specifies a case temperature range of -40°C to 105°C to meet the demanding requirements of the environment in which such devices are located. To further improve performance under these conditions, the dual-channel mixer provides optimum conversion gain variation to ensure consistent receiver performance over temperature.

Each channel of the LTC559x dual mixer family includes an integrated IF amplifier, LO buffer, and RF balun. The RF input for each mixer is single-ended, 50Ω matched. A common LO input is responsible for driving two internally separated LO buffers, providing excellent channel-to-channel isolation and maintaining phase coherence between channels. In addition, the LO input is either single-ended and always 50Ω matched, regardless of whether the mixer is running or powered down, to avoid disturbing or unlocking of the PLL (phase-locked loop) driven VCO circuit. The LO input requires only a 0dBm drive level. All of these features ensure a compact solution with minimal external components and ease of use.

The LTC559x dual-channel mixer family has the same pinout configuration, allowing designers to share PC board layouts across multiple platforms operating in different frequency bands. This helps users lower their total cost of ownership and speed time to market.

The LTC559x dual-channel mixer family operates from a single 3.3V supply and consumes 380mA of total supply current when both channels are turned on. Each mixer can be independently shut down with a single enable control. When stopped, the IC consumes up to 500μA of standby current. In addition, a digital bias control pin allows the system to further reduce power to approximately 800mW, enabling more efficient management of energy consumption during off-peak hours. In low power mode, IIP3 drops from 26.2dBm to the available 21.4dBm (at 1.95GHz).

The LTC559x dual mixer series is available in a 24-lead 5mm x 5mm plastic QFN package. The LTC5591 is now in production. Following the LTC5591, the LTC5590, LTC5592, and LTC5593 will be available in July, August, and September, respectively. The LTC5591 is priced at $9.50 each in 1,000-piece quantities. Samples are available. For more information, please visit