The Performance and Measurement of Mixers in Terms of Linear-Network Theory

This paper discusses the properties of mixers in terms of linear-network theory. In Part I the network equations are derived from the fundamental properties of nonlinear resistive elements. Part II contains a résumé of the appropriate formulas of linear-network theory. In Part III the network theory is applied, first to the case of simple nonlinear resistances, and next to the more general case where the nonlinear resistance is embedded in a network of parasitic resistive and reactive passive-impedance elements. In Part IV application of the previous results is made to the measurement of performance properties. The "impedance" and the "incremental" methods of measuring loss are contrasted, and it is shown that the actual loss is given by the incremental method when certain special precautions are taken, while the impedance method is in itself incomplete.