Recent Advances in Beam Lead Diode Mixers for Millimeter Systems Applications

This paper describes ongoing development of suspended strip1ine mixers at 30, 35, 40-50, 60, 94 and 140 GHz. These mixers, exhibiting the lowest commercially available noise figures, have been designed specifically for millimeter wave systems requirements. They utilize advanced beam lead diode technology, making possible cost-effective and reliable receiver components for use at millimeter wavelengths. 4.5 dB DSB noise figure including the IF contribution has been achieved in production mixer-preamplifiers at 94 GHz using beam lead suspended strip line technology. A survey of units already in the field and a forecast to future possible potential and capabilities for this class of devices will be explored.