A Unique 520–590 GHz Biased Subharmonically-Pumped Schottky Mixer

We report on the design and performance of a novel broadband, biased, subharmonic 520-590 GHz fix-tuned frequency mixer that utilizes planar Schottky diodes. The suspended stripline circuit is fabricated on a GaAs membrane mounted in a split waveguide block. The chip is supported by thick beam leads that are also used to provide precise radio frequency (RF) grounding, RF coupling and dc/intermediate frequency connections. At room temperature, the mixer has a measured double sideband noise temperature of 3000 to 4000 K across the design band.