RF mixers translate signals between RF and intermediate frequencies using a local oscillator (LO). Compare the compact mixer models below by RF/LO coverage, IF bandwidth, required LO drive, conversion loss, port isolation and linearity. The appropriate model depends on the complete frequency plan, not frequency coverage alone.
For example, the HD32507 datasheet describes a passive double-balanced mixer with 2–18 GHz RF/LO coverage, DC–3 GHz IF coverage and SMA female ports. Its electrical specifications use a +13 dBm LO, a 100 MHz IF and a 50-ohm system at +25°C. Performance varies with frequency and operating conditions; use each linked datasheet to confirm the values needed for your design.
| Part Number | Frequency RF/LO (MHz) | Frequency IF (MHz) | LO Level (dBm) | Conversion Loss (dB) | LO-RF Isolation (dB) | LO-IF Isolation (dB) | RF-IF Isolation (dB) | P1dB (dBm) | IP3 (dBm) | |
| HD32507 | 2250-18000 | DC-3000 | 13 | 11 | 35 | 20 | 12 | 10 | 20 | Download |
| HD32508 | 3000-10000 | DC-4000 | 17 | 9 | 45 | 45 | 20 | 15 | 23 | Download |
| HD32509 | 5500-14000 | DC-6000 | 15 | 7 | 25 | 14 | 11 | 20 | Download | |
| HD32510 | 6000-26000 | DC-8000 | 13 | 9 | 37 | 37 | 11 | 22 | Download | |
| HD32511 | 7000-14000 | DC-5000 | 8 | 45 | 36 | 30 | Download | |||
| HD32512 | 7000-34000 | DC-8000 | 15 | 12 | 35 | 40 | 20 | 13 | Download | |
| HD32513 | 11000-20000 | DC-6000 | 13 | 8 | 46 | 25 | 11 | 18 | Download | |
| HD32514 | 14000-26000 | DC-8000 | 9 | 35 | 35 | 30 | 14 | 20 | Download | |
| HD32515 | 16000-30000 | 10 | 40 | 34 | 21 | Download | ||||
| HD32516 | 24000-32000 | 11 | 38 | 40 | 13 | 18 | Download | |||
| HD32517 | 5000-12000 | DC-4000 | 10 | 8.5 | 18 | 20 | 25 | 8 | 16 | Download |
| HD32518 | 800-2000 | DC-500 | 9 | 40 | 30 | 22 | Download | |||
| HD32519 | 1500-4500 | DC-1500 | 13 | 8.5 | 35 | 20 | 10 | 19 | Download | |
| HD32520 | 4500-9000 | DC-2500 | 9 | 25 | 25 | 21 | Download | |||
| HD32521 | 9000-15000 | 8.5 | 40 | 40 | 17 | 9 | 17 | Download | ||
| HD32522 | 6000-14000 | DC-5000 | 6.5 | 43 | 22 | 37 | 9.5 | 16 | Download | |
| HD32523 | 11000-22000 | DC-6000 | 6 | 38 | 25 | 9 | Download | |||
| HD32524 | 16000-26000 | DC-9000 | 7 | 40 | 40 | 10 | 17 | Download | ||
| HD32525 | 20000-32000 | DC-10000 | 36 | 36 | 26 | 9 | 18 | Download |
Specify the input band, desired output band and local-oscillator frequency. Check all three port ranges, the chosen sum or difference product, and the filtering needed to reject images, LO leakage and unwanted mixing products.
Compare the required LO drive with the power available at the mixer port after cable and divider losses. Confirm RF input compression, input IP3 and absolute maximum ratings separately. Maximum ratings are limits, not recommended operating points.
Use the selected model’s outline drawing to check enclosure dimensions, connector locations and mounting. State the operating temperature, available space and any screening or qualification requirements in your enquiry; these must be confirmed for the exact part.
Start with a frequency plan and a signal-level budget. A mixer that covers your RF band may still be unsuitable if its IF bandwidth or available LO drive does not match the system.
The comparison table is a starting point. Download the model-specific PDF for frequency-dependent limits, typical curves, test conditions and mechanical drawings. Where a table entry is blank, request the missing specification rather than assuming zero or unlimited performance. Resolve any difference between the summary table and datasheet before ordering.
A higher third-order intercept generally reduces third-order intermodulation products for the same input signal levels, but it does not prevent distortion. Check whether a rating is input-referred (IIP3) or output-referred (OIP3), along with the test frequencies and LO power. The HD32507 datasheet specifies input IP3 and RF input P1dB; these are different limits and should both be included in the receiver level budget.
A mixer may be suitable for a satellite ground terminal or wireless signal chain when its RF/LO range, IF bandwidth, conversion loss, LO drive and linearity meet the design requirements. The application name alone does not establish compatibility. For a spaceflight or other qualified application, request the exact model’s qualification and environmental evidence; do not assume that a ground-system part is flight qualified.
Frequency coverage is model-specific and differs between the RF/LO and IF ports. For example, HD32507 specifies RF/LO coverage of 2–18 GHz and IF coverage of DC–3 GHz. A DC-capable IF port does not mean that the RF or LO port operates down to DC. Use the linked datasheet for the selected model and verify performance at the intended conversion frequencies.
Provide the RF input range, LO tuning range and IF output range. Include whether the system uses upconversion or downconversion and which conversion product is required.
Frequency Plan
RF, LO and IF requirements
Specify the available LO power, expected RF signal and blocker levels, acceptable conversion loss, isolation and linearity targets.
Signal-Level Budget
Drive, loss and dynamic range
Include connector requirements, mounting space, operating temperature, quantity and required delivery date. Request the current datasheet and confirmation of availability before committing the design.
Integration and Supply
Mechanical fit and quotation details
Send the part number and quantity if you have selected a mixer. If you are still comparing options, share the RF/LO/IF frequency plan, available LO power, conversion-loss and linearity targets, connector requirements and delivery schedule. Our team can review the enquiry and confirm the quoted model and documentation. Browse the RF mixer category for other configurations.
microwave mixers, low frequency mixer, ghz mixer