First K-band Capable 12-bit 6 GSps Digital to Analogue Converter

Designers of microwave systems are constantly looking for DACs which provide not only large Nyquist zones (>2.5 GHz), but also offer flat frequency response in these large instantaneous bandwidths. Such DACs allow simplifying the architecture of the complete microwave generation system, thus saving costs. This paper covers the performance of a new generation DAC with a working range up to the K-band. A number of applications of this part will be discussed preliminary to a review of the aspects of interfacing to this component in the digital and analogue domains. Typical single tone and broadband measurement results are proposed in the last part.