Local Oscillator Phase-Dependent Linearized Mixer Modeling Based on Large-Signal Vector Measurements

This paper presents a broadband poly-harmonic behavioral model for microwave mixers operating in the linear regime. It is extracted from large-signal vector measurements and predicts the response with respect to an arbitrary local oscillator (LO) phase. The model is capable of estimating the performance of the converted signals and the main mixing products for an intermediate frequency that spans within an a priori defined bandwidth. This paper gives a detailed model analytical treatment along with a discussion of its properties and the description of the characterization method. The model validation is achieved by the characterization of a subharmonic mixer implemented in the hybrid technology that operates with a 2.229-GHz LO, an intermediate frequency bandwidth of 732-754 MHz, and a corresponding radio frequency bandwidth of 5.191-5.211 GHz. Independent experimental validation is achieved by an image rejection mixer composed of two nominally identical mixers, individually characterized by the proposed technique. Validation is concluded with experimental data, demonstrating the model's capability to deal with a phase-modulated LO signal.