Mixers

Mixers are frequency translation devices. They allow the conversion of signals between a high frequency (the RF frequency) and a lower Intermediate Frequency (IF) or baseband. In communications systems the RF is the transmission frequency, which is converted to an IF to allow improved selectivity (filtering) and an easier implementation of low noise and high gain amplification. This paper details the design of mixer circuits, concentrating on low cost Printed Circuit Board (PCB) based designs using discrete Surface Mount Technology (SMT) components