Mixer Diodes
Last Updated: April 1, 2025
Description
Mixer diodes are electronic components used to combine two input signals to produce new frequencies at the output. They are primarily used in frequency conversion processes, where they mix two signals to generate either the sum or the difference of their frequencies.
Working Principle
Mixer diodes operate based on their non-linear current-voltage characteristics, which allow them to effectively combine two input signals. The most common type of mixer diode is the Schottky diode, known for its high performance in high-frequency applications. The non-linearities in the diode's junction capacitance and resistance are exploited to perform the mixing operation. This non-linear behavior is crucial as it enables the diode to produce new frequencies from the input signals. Mixer diodes are particularly useful in RF and microwave applications due to their ability to efficiently translate frequencies with minimal distortion.
Applications
Mixer diodes are widely used in various applications, particularly in RF and microwave systems. They are essential components in communication systems for frequency conversion tasks, such as in receivers and transmitters. For example, they are used in radar systems to convert high-frequency signals to lower intermediate frequencies for easier processing. Additionally, mixer diodes are employed in satellite communication systems and wireless communication devices to facilitate the mixing of signals for effective transmission and reception.
Advantages over other Diodes
Mixer diodes, especially those based on Schottky technology, offer several advantages over other types of diodes. They provide excellent performance in high-frequency applications due to their low parasitic capacitance and resistance, which result in higher cut-off frequencies and lower conversion losses . Schottky diodes are preferred in high-performance applications because they offer better isolation, spurious rejection, and conversion efficiency compared to FET and CMOS mixers .
Limitations
One of the limitations of mixer diodes is their sensitivity to noise, which can affect the dynamic range and overall performance of the mixer circuit . Additionally, the fabrication process for Schottky diodes may not be compatible with other semiconductor devices, which can complicate integration into monolithic circuits . The extra circuitry required for signal routing and separation in mixer designs can also introduce additional losses, reducing the overall efficiency of the mixer .
Considerations
When considering the use of mixer diodes, several factors should be taken into account. Initial costs can vary depending on the complexity of the mixer design and the quality of the diodes used. Operating expenses may include the need for additional components to manage noise and improve isolation. Durability and accuracy are generally high for Schottky diode mixers, but maintenance costs can arise from the need to replace or upgrade components to maintain optimal performance. The choice of mixer diode should also consider the specific application requirements, such as frequency range and power handling capabilities, to ensure the best performance and cost-effectiveness.
from Skyworks Solutions, Inc.
Please note: SMS7621-092 is being discontinued and is not recommended for new designs. The suggested replacement are SMS7621-040LF, SMS7621-079LF. The SMS7621-092 is a silicon, low barrier n-type Schottky diode anti-parallel pair. This diode pair can be used for sub-harmonic mixer circuits and other... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- Diode Type: Schottky
from Infineon Technologies AG
Silicon Schottky Diodes. Summary of Features. Low barrier diode for detectors up to GHz frequencies. Pb-free (RoHS compliant) package. Potential Applications. Wireless Communications. Satellite Receivers. Base Stations. High Speed Data Networks. RFID. Applications. Automotive telematics control unit... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Detector; Mixer
- VF: 0.5000
- Diode Type: Schottky; RF Diodes
- IF: 20
from Nexperia B.V.
Planar Schottky barrier double diode in a SOT23 small plastic SMD package. Features and benefits. Low forward voltage. Small SMD package. Low capacitance. AEC-Q101 qualified. Applications. UHF mixer. Sampling circuits. Modulators. Phase detection. [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- VF: 0.6000 to 600
- Diode Type: Schottky
- VR: 4
from RS Components, Ltd.
Schottky Diode 4V 130mA SOT23 [See More]
- Diode Applications: Rectifier; Mixer
- RoHS Compliant: RoHS
- Diode Type: Schottky
from Rochester Electronics
Mixer Diode, SOT6 [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- RoHS Compliant: RoHS
from Skyworks Solutions, Inc.
Skyworks beam-lead silicon Schottky barrier mixer diodes are designed for applications through 40 GHz. The beam-lead design reduces the problem of bonding to the very small area characteristic of the low capacitance junctions. Beam-lead Schottky barrier mixer diodes are made by the deposition of a... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- Diode Type: Schottky
from Infineon Technologies AG
This Infineon RF Schottky diode is a silicon low barrier N-type device with an integrated guard ring on-chip for over-voltage protection. Its low barrier height, low forward voltage and low junction capacitance make BAT15-02EL a suitable choice for mixer and detector functions in applications which... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Detector; Mixer
- VF: 0.2500 to 0.3200
- Diode Type: Schottky; RF Diodes
- IF: 110
from RS Components, Ltd.
Diode,mixer,7V,UHF,SOT23 [See More]
- Diode Applications: Switching; Mixer
- RoHS Compliant: RoHS
from Rochester Electronics
Mixer Diode, Ultra High Frequency, Silicon [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- RoHS Compliant: RoHS
from Skyworks Solutions, Inc.
Skyworks beam-lead silicon Schottky barrier mixer diodes are designed for applications through 40 GHz. The beam-lead design reduces the problem of bonding to the very small area characteristic of the low capacitance junctions. Beam-lead Schottky barrier mixer diodes are made by the deposition of a... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- Diode Type: Schottky
from Infineon Technologies AG
This Infineon RF Schottky diode is a silicon low barrier N-type device with an integrated guard ring on-chip for over-voltage protection. Its low barrier height, low forward voltage and low junction capacitance make BAT15-02ELS a suitable choice for mixer and detector functions in applications which... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Detector; Mixer
- VF: 0.2500 to 0.3200
- Diode Type: Schottky; RF Diodes
- IF: 110
from Rochester Electronics
Mixer Diode, Ultra High Frequency, Silicon [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- RoHS Compliant: RoHS
from Skyworks Solutions, Inc.
Please note: DME3939-257 is being discontinued and is not recommended for new designs. Skyworks beam-lead silicon Schottky barrier mixer diodes are designed for applications through 40 GHz. The beam-lead design reduces the problem of bonding to the very small area characteristic of the low... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- Diode Type: Schottky
from Infineon Technologies AG
Infineon RF Schottky Diode is a silicon low barrier N-type of device with an integrated guard ring on-chip for overvoltage protection. Its low barrier height, small forward voltage diode and low junction capacitance, make BAT 15 - 02 LRH a suitable choice for mixer and detector functions in... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Detector; Mixer
- VF: 0.2500 to 0.3200
- Diode Type: Schottky; RF Diodes
- IF: 110
from Rochester Electronics
Mixer Diode, Ultra High Frequency, Silicon [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- RoHS Compliant: RoHS
from Skyworks Solutions, Inc.
Skyworks beam-lead silicon Schottky barrier mixer diodes are designed for applications through 40 GHz. The beam-lead design reduces the problem of bonding to the very small area characteristic of the low capacitance junctions. Beam-lead Schottky barrier mixer diodes are made by the deposition of a... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- Diode Type: Schottky
from Infineon Technologies AG
Infineon RF Schottky Diode is a silicon low barrier N-type of device with an integrated guard ring on-chip for overvoltage protection. Its low barrier height, small forward voltage diode and low junction capacitance, make BAT 15 - 02 LS a suitable choice for mixer and detector functions in... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Detector; Mixer
- VF: 0.2500 to 0.3200
- Diode Type: Schottky; RF Diodes
- IF: 110
from Rochester Electronics
Mixer Diode, Silicon, DO-35 [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- RoHS Compliant: RoHS
from Skyworks Solutions, Inc.
Skyworks beam-lead silicon Schottky barrier mixer diodes are designed for applications through 40 GHz. The beam-lead design reduces the problem of bonding to the very small area characteristic of the low capacitance junctions. Beam-lead Schottky barrier mixer diodes are made by the deposition of a... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- Diode Type: Schottky
from Infineon Technologies AG
This Infineon RF Schottky diode is a silicon low barrier N-type device with an integrated guard ring on-chip for over-voltage protection. Its low barrier height, low forward voltage and low junction capacitance make BAT15-03W a suitable choice for mixer and detector functions in applications which... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Detector; Mixer
- VF: 0.2500 to 0.3200
- Diode Type: Schottky; RF Diodes
- IF: 110
from Rochester Electronics
BA591 - Mixer Diode, Very High Frequency [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- RoHS Compliant: RoHS
from Skyworks Solutions, Inc.
This Skyworks family of Si Schottky diodes are configured as bridge quads intended for use in double-balanced mixers. Each bridge quad die is comprised of four Schottky junctions. There are three barrier heights available: DMF4102-099 is composed of low-barrier diodes, which can be driven with... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- VF: 0.0100
- Diode Type: Schottky
from Infineon Technologies AG
This Infineon RF Schottky diode is silicon low barrier N-type device with an integrated guard ring on-chip for over-voltage protection. Its low barrier height, low forward voltage and low junction capacitance make BAT15-04R a suitable choice for mixer and detector functions in applications which... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Detector; Mixer
- VF: 0.2500
- Diode Type: Schottky; RF Diodes
- IF: 110
from Rochester Electronics
RF Mixer and Detector Schottky Diode [See More]
- Diode Applications: Detector; Mixer
- RoHS Compliant: RoHS
- Diode Type: Schottky; RF Diodes
from Skyworks Solutions, Inc.
The Skyworks SMS3926-099 family of Si Schottky diodes are configured as ring quads intended for use in double-balanced mixers. Each ring quad die is comprised of four Schottky junctions, connected anode to cathode. SMS3926-099 is composed of low barrier diodes, which can be driven with low-power... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- VF: 0.0100
- Diode Type: Schottky
from Infineon Technologies AG
This Infineon RF Schottky diode is a silicon low barrier N-type device with an integrated guard ring on-chip for over-voltage protection. Its low barrier height, low forward voltage and low junction capacitance make BAT15-04W a suitable choice for mixer and detector functions in applications which... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Detector; Mixer
- VF: 0.2500
- Diode Type: Schottky; RF Diodes
- IF: 110
from Rochester Electronics
Mixer Diode, Low Barrier, X Band, Silicon [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- RoHS Compliant: RoHS
from Skyworks Solutions, Inc.
The Skyworks SMS3927-099 family of Si Schottky diodes are configured as ring quads intended for use in double-balanced mixers. Each ring quad die is comprised of four Schottky junctions, connected anode to cathode. SMS3927-099 is composed of medium barrier diodes, for applications in which... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- VF: 0.0100
- Diode Type: Schottky
from Infineon Technologies AG
This Infineon RF Schottky diode is silicon low barrier N-type device with an integrated guard ring on-chip for over-voltage protection. Its low barrier height, low forward voltage and low junction capacitance make BAT15-099 a suitable choice for mixer and detector functions in applications which... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Detector; Mixer
- VF: 0.2500 to 0.3200
- Diode Type: Schottky; RF Diodes
- IF: 110
from Rochester Electronics
Mixer Diode, Low Barrier, X Band, Silicon [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- RoHS Compliant: RoHS
from Skyworks Solutions, Inc.
The Skyworks SMS3928-099 family of Si Schottky diodes are configured as ring quads intended for use in double-balanced mixers. Each ring quad die is comprised of four Schottky junctions, connected anode to cathode. SMS3928-099 is composed of high barrier diodes for applications that require very low... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- VF: 0.0100
- Diode Type: Schottky
from Infineon Technologies AG
This Infineon RF Schottky diode is silicon low barrier N-type device with an integrated guard ring on-chip for over-voltage protection. Its low barrier height, low forward voltage and low junction capacitance make BAT15-099R a suitable choice for mixer functions in applications which frequencies are... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Detector; Mixer
- VF: 0.2500 to 0.3200
- Diode Type: Schottky; RF Diodes
- IF: 110
from Rochester Electronics
Mixer Diode, Ultra High Frequency, 8dB Noise Figure, Silicon [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- RoHS Compliant: RoHS
from Skyworks Solutions, Inc.
Skyworks silicon Schottky diode chips are intended for use as detector and mixer devices in hybrid integrated circuits at frequencies from below 100 MHz to higher than 40 GHz. Skyworks 'Universal Chip' design features a 4 mil diameter bond pad that is offset from the semiconductor junction... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- Diode Type: Schottky
from Infineon Technologies AG
Silicon Schottky Diodes. Summary of Features. For mixer applications in VHF/UHF range. For high-speed switching application. Pb-free (RoHS compliant) package. Potential Applications. Wireless Communications. Satellite Receivers. Base Stations. High Speed Data Networks [See More]
- Diode Applications: Detector; Mixer
- VF: 0.3400 to 0.6000
- Diode Type: Schottky; RF Diodes
- IF: 130
from Rochester Electronics
RF Mixer and Detector Schottky Diode [See More]
- Diode Applications: Detector; Mixer
- RoHS Compliant: RoHS
- Diode Type: Schottky; RF Diodes
from Skyworks Solutions, Inc.
Skyworks silicon Schottky diode chips are intended for use as detector and mixer devices in hybrid integrated circuits at frequencies from below 100 MHz to higher than 40 GHz. Skyworks 'Universal Chip' design features a 4 mil diameter bond pad that is offset from the semiconductor junction... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- Diode Type: Schottky
from Infineon Technologies AG
This Infineon RF Schottky Diode is a silicon low barrier N-type device with an integrated guard ring on-chip for overvoltage protection. Its low barrier height, small forward voltage and low junction capacitance make BAT24-02ELS a suitable choice for mixer and detector functions in applications with... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Detector; Mixer
- VF: 0.2500 to 0.3200
- Diode Type: Schottky; RF Diodes
- IF: 110
from Rochester Electronics
RF Mixer and Detector Schottky Diode [See More]
- Diode Applications: Detector; Mixer
- RoHS Compliant: RoHS
- Diode Type: Schottky; RF Diodes
from Skyworks Solutions, Inc.
Skyworks silicon Schottky diode chips are intended for use as detector and mixer devices in hybrid integrated circuits at frequencies from below 100 MHz to higher than 40 GHz. Skyworks 'Universal Chip' design features a 4 mil diameter bond pad that is offset from the semiconductor junction... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- Diode Type: Schottky
from Infineon Technologies AG
Infineon RF Schottky Diode is a silicon low barrier N-type of device with an integrated guard ring on-chip for overvoltage protection. Its low barrier height, small forward voltage diode and low junction capacitance, make BAT24 - 02LS a suitable choice for mixer and detector functions in... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Detector; Mixer
- VF: 0.2500
- Diode Type: Schottky; RF Diodes
- IF: 110
from Rochester Electronics
RF Mixer and Detector Schottky Diode [See More]
- Diode Applications: Detector; Mixer
- RoHS Compliant: RoHS
- Diode Type: Schottky; RF Diodes
from Skyworks Solutions, Inc.
Skyworks silicon Schottky diode chips are intended for use as detector and mixer devices in hybrid integrated circuits at frequencies from below 100 MHz to higher than 40 GHz. Skyworks 'Universal Chip' design features a 4 mil diameter bond pad that is offset from the semiconductor junction... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- Diode Type: Schottky
from Infineon Technologies AG
Silicon Schottky Diodes. Summary of Features. Low barrier diode for detectors up to GHz frequencies. For high-speed applications. Zero bias detector diode. Pb-free (RoHS compliant) package. Potential Applications. Wireless Communications. Satellite Receivers. Base Stations. High Speed Data Networks. [See More]
- Diode Applications: Detector; Mixer
- VF: 0.1900 to 0.3000
- Diode Type: Schottky; RF Diodes
- IF: 100
from Rochester Electronics
Mixer Diode, Low Barrier, Silicon [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- RoHS Compliant: RoHS
from Skyworks Solutions, Inc.
Please note: SMS7621-001LF is being discontinued and is not recommended for new designs. SMS7621 Series includes SMS7621-079LF, SMS7621-005LF, SMS7621-006LF, SMS7621-040LF. These low-cost, surface mountable, plastic packaged silicon mixer Schottky diodes are designed for RF and microwave mixers and... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- Diode Type: Schottky
from Rochester Electronics
Mixer Diode, Silicon [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- RoHS Compliant: RoHS
from Skyworks Solutions, Inc.
These low-cost, surface mountable, plastic packaged silicon mixer Schottky diodes are designed for RF and microwave mixers and detectors. They include low barrier diodes and zero-bias detectors that combine Skyworks advanced semiconductor technology with low-cost packaging techniques. All diodes are... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- Diode Type: Schottky
from Rochester Electronics
Mixer Diode, K Band, 1200ohm Z(V) Max, Silicon [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- RoHS Compliant: RoHS
from Skyworks Solutions, Inc.
The SMSA3923-011LF plastic packaged Schottky diode is designed for several automotive in-vehicle applications. [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- Diode Type: Schottky
from Rochester Electronics
Mixer Diode, Zero Barrier, K Band, 5000ohm Z(V) Max, Silicon [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- RoHS Compliant: RoHS
from Skyworks Solutions, Inc.
Please note: SMS7621-060 is being discontinued and is not recommended for new designs. The suggested replacement are SMS7621-040LF, SMS7621-079LF. The SMS7621-060 is a silicon, low-barrier N-type Schottky diode with an ultra-miniature 0201 footprint. This diode may be used in detector circuits,... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- Diode Type: Schottky
from Rochester Electronics
Schottky Barrier Diode for Balanced Mixer [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- RoHS Compliant: RoHS
- Diode Type: Schottky
from Skyworks Solutions, Inc.
Please note: SMSA7621-060 is being discontinued and is not recommended for new designs. The suggested replacement are SMS7621-040LF, SMS7621-079LF. The SMSA7621-060 is a silicon, low-barrier N-type Schottky diode with an ultra-miniature 0201 footprint. This diode may be used in detector circuits,... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- Diode Type: Schottky
from Rochester Electronics
Mixer Diode, Silicon [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- RoHS Compliant: RoHS
from Rochester Electronics
Schottky Barrier Diode for Mixer [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- RoHS Compliant: RoHS
- Diode Type: Schottky
from Rochester Electronics
Mixer Diode, Silicon [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- RoHS Compliant: RoHS
from Rochester Electronics
Mixer Diode, Ultra High Frequency [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
- RoHS Compliant: RoHS
from Broadcom Inc.
The HSCH-5310 / HSCH-531x medium barrier beam lead schottky diodes are ideally suited for mixer and detector applications from 1GHz to 26GHz. The HSCH-5314 and HSCH-5318 have guaranteed RF tested performance, while the other products are DC only tested. [See More]
- Diode Applications: Detector; Mixer
- VF: 0.5000
- Diode Type: Schottky; RF Diodes
- VR: 1
from SemiGen
SemiGen ’s Silicon Schottky Diodes are designed for applications through 40Ghz. The special process technology utilizes various metal schemes to provide excellent performance of Low, Medium, and High Barrier applications. The end result is a low resistance diode with tightly controlled... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Switching; Modulation; Detector; Mixer
- VF: 295
- Diode Type: Schottky
from Broadcom Inc.
General purpose Schottky diode in a broad range of package configurations. Optimised for High voltage clamp or analog DC switch applications. For low breakdown applciations, like detectors or mixers, please refer to HSMS-282X. For low flicker (1/F) noise applications refer to HSMS-281X. VBR=70 V,... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Switching; Detector; Mixer
- VF: 0.4000
- Diode Type: Schottky; RF Diodes
- IF: 1
from SemiGen
SemiGen ’s Silicon Schottky Diodes are designed for applications through 40Ghz. The special process technology utilizes various metal schemes to provide excellent performance of Low, Medium, and High Barrier applications. The end result is a low resistance diode with tightly controlled... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Switching; Modulation; Detector; Mixer
- VF: 295
- Diode Type: Schottky
from Broadcom Inc.
General purpose Schottky diode in a broad range of package configurations. Optimised for High voltage clamp or analog DC switch applications. For low breakdown applciations, like detectors or mixers, please refer to HSMS-282X. For low flicker (1/F) noise applications refer to HSMS-281X. VBR=70 V,... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Switching; Detector; Mixer
- VF: 0.4000
- Diode Type: Schottky; RF Diodes
- IF: 1
from SemiGen
SemiGen ’s Silicon Schottky Diodes are designed for applications through 40Ghz. The special process technology utilizes various metal schemes to provide excellent performance of Low, Medium, and High Barrier applications. The end result is a low resistance diode with tightly controlled... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Switching; Modulation; Detector; Mixer
- VF: 0.2500
- Diode Type: Schottky
from Broadcom Inc.
General purpose Schottky diode in a broad range of package configurations. Optimised for High voltage clamp or analog DC switch applications. For low breakdown applciations, like detectors or mixers, please refer to HSMS-282X. For low flicker (1/F) noise applications refer to HSMS-281X. VBR=70 V,... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Switching; Detector; Mixer
- VF: 0.4000
- Diode Type: Schottky; RF Diodes
- IF: 1
from SemiGen
SemiGen ’s 1N Series of Point Contact Mixer Diodes are designed for applications through KA band. Each device in this series is specially designed for low noise gure, impedance and VSWR. Our devices are drop in replacements for all military and commercial requirements. These diodes employ... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Mixer
from Broadcom Inc.
The MiniPak HMPS-282x family of Schottky diodes is the most consistent and best all-round device available, and finds applications in mixing, detecting, switching, sampling, clamping and wave shaping at frequencies up to 6 GHz. The MiniPak package offers reduced parasitics when compared to... [See More]
- Diode Applications: Switching; Detector; Mixer; Sampling, Clamping
- VF: 0.3400
- Diode Type: Schottky; RF Diodes
- IF: 1