300MHz to 6GHz dual-channel wideband mixer with programmable gain amplifier for 5G wireless access

Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC5566, a new wideband, high dynamic range dual-channel mixer that integrates a programmable variable gain IF amplifier. This dual-channel mixer is optimized for a wide 300MHz to 6GHz input frequency range and is widely characterized in the new 3.6GHz and 4.5GHz 5G bands and the 4G band that has been in use for a long time.

The LTC5566 is ideal for 5G wireless multi-channel RRH (remote radio head) wireless access devices that require better performance and wider bandwidth at higher frequencies. Moreover, the high integration of the device also enables multi-channel integration within a small enclosure. Other suitable applications include 4G LTE-Advanced, diversity receivers, distributed antenna systems, and software-defined radios.

Based on an active, double-balanced mixer core with no conversion loss and excellent port-to-port isolation, the LTC5566 reduces external RF filtering requirements. Each mixer input includes an integrated wideband balun, thus providing a simple single-ended interface. Using SPI or parallel pins, the mixer inputs can be digitally tuned to achieve optimal return loss in several wide, overlapping frequency bands (from 1.3 GHz to 5.3 GHz), eliminating the need for additional external components In case of case, ensure its flexibility in the use of software-defined radio applications. In addition, excellent dynamic range performance is achieved by adding a single shunt inductor for proper matching that also supports the lower 450MHz, 700MHz and 900MHz bands. Higher frequencies above 5.3 GHz (eg 5.8 GHz) can be achieved with a simple external matching circuit.

The LTC5566 has excellent 50dB channel-to-channel isolation up to 3.6GHz. At 4.5 GHz, channel isolation still reaches 40 dB. Both channels exhibit a very low phase shift over the entire 15.5dB attenuation range, which is critical for MIMO receiver applications.

Relevant LTC55 series products

Author：Brittany Antonia （The author of article owns the copyright.）