A 2.4 GHz RF CMOS up-conversion mixer for wireless sensor networks nodes

Mixer is one of the main modules of a transmitter system, and its performance will heavily impact the functionality of the entire transmitter. Gilbert cell structure can achieve high degree of RF (Radio Frequency) and LO (Local Oscillator) isolation, thus loosening filtering output requirements. This design employs a resonant LC network as the load to improve gain, increase the output voltage swing, and inhibit the high-order harmonic generation. It uses feedback to improve the linearity of the mixer. The current-reuse bleeding double-balanced mixer operates at 2.4 GHz. And the up-conversion mixer uses an intermediate frequency (IF) input frequency of 1.2 MHz, a local oscillator (LO) of frequency of 2.4 GHz and a RF output frequency of 2.4012 GHz. Experimental test chip is realized. Measured results demonstrate -2.01 dB conversion gain, and -13 dBm input compression point with 11.9 mA total current with a 1.8 V supply. The current in Gilbert Cell is 2.9 mA and the current in buffer is 9 mA.