Alpha Industries introduces the AM028S1-A2, a broadband mmWave mixer that utilizes Alpha's patent-pending Alpha-2' package technology to produce tremendous performance and price advantages. The AM028S1-A2 mixer's 26 GHz - 33 GHz frequency range, low conversion loss, wide IF bandwidth, and surface mount package make the mixer well suited for high-volume broadband mmWave applications such as LMDS, digital radio, VSAT, and sensors.

Incorporating the Alpha-2 package technology into the AM028S1-A2 gives the mixer numerous cost advantages compared to bare die alternatives. The rugged surface mount design eliminates the need for expensive microelectronic assembly, eases handling, and makes the AM028S1-A2 more reliable. It offers excellent repeatable electrical performance with solder attachment, eliminating the need for tuning. The single-package design also reduces parts count.

Because the AM028S1-A2 is a fundamental-LO mixer, it has improved linearity compared to sub-harmonic mixers. The AM028S1-A2 has conversion loss of only 6 dB and wide IF bandwidth up to 6 GHz. The performance of the AM028S1-A2 makes it well suited for use as the frequency translation function in a receiver when low conversion loss and high dynamic range are necessary.

Alpha Industries, Inc.; 20 Sylvan Road, Woburn, MA 01801. Tel: 781-935-5150; Fax 617-824-4579.

The AM028S1-A2 is a broadband millimeter wave mixer in a surface mount package that Alpha was astute enough to make rugged and compatible with high volume solder installations. Why? Because millimeter wave components require a careful mounting design to maintain optimal performance. This Alpha-2 surface mount package provides a rugged and repeatable electrical connection using only standard solder techniques. However, the company warns that only personnel trained in both ESD precautions and handling precautions should handle these packages.

This single balanced down converter mixer is designed for use in millimeter wave communication and sensor systems such as point-to-point, and point-to-multipoint wireless communications systems. It can be used as a frequency conversion stage in the receiver chain when wide dynamic range and high linearity are required. Another important but not readily observed "feature" of this fragile device is the screening of all the mixers at the operating frequencies prior to shipment for guaranteed performance.

Pricing of the AM028S1-A2 is $23 at 1000 pieces and delivery is 10 weeks ARO. Samples and evaluation boards are readily available.

Data sheet