HMC8108 Data Sheet
Rev. 0 | Page 14 of 18
THEORY OF OPERATION
The HMC8108 is a X-band, low noise converter with integrated
LO buffers that converts RF input signals ranging from 9 GHz
to 10 GHz down to a typical single-ended IF signal of 60 MHz
at its output. See Figure 54 for a functional block diagram of the
circuit architecture of the HMC8108.
The RF input signal passes through two stages of low noise
amplification. The preamplified RF input signal then splits
through an internal hybrid to feed two singly balanced passive
mixers. A power divider followed by three LO buffer amplifiers
drives the two I and Q mixer cores to convert the amplified RF
input frequencies to a 60 MHz typical single-ended IF. A variable
attenuator allows gain control ranging from 10 dB to 30 dB.
15133-054
RFIN
LOIN
ESD
VCTRL
ATTENUATOR
LNA_VD1
LNA_VG1
LNA1
LNA_VD2
LNA_VG2
IF_Q
IF_I
BUFF_VD
BUFF_VG
LNA2
MIX_VG
HYBRID
MIX
MIX
DIV
BUFF3 BUFF2 BUFF1
Figure 54. Functional Block Diagram of the Circuit Architecture