A 17-GHz direct down-conversion mixer in a 47-GHz SiGe process

Future wireless data access will involve gigabit-per-second radios operating at RF frequencies above 10 GHz. This paper presents the design, simulation and measurement of a 17 GHz direct down-conversion mixer intended for these systems. The mixer was fabricated in a low-f/sub T/ (47 GHz) SiGe process, achieving a midband conversion gain of 12 dB and a double sideband noise figure of 11.5 dB, while consuming 17.8 mW from a 3.3 V supply.