Investigation of a Monolithic, Integrated -Curcuit, Differential Amplifier as a Mixing Device

Abstract

The balanced, differential-amplifier configuration finds wide applicability in its monolithic integrated form. This paper investigates the use of the MIC differential amplifier as a mixer. The device chosen for this investigation permits signal injection both in the differentially driven pair and in the constant-current sink which biases the differential pair. Device characteristics pertinent to the mixing process are generated and discussed. On the basis of the experimentally derived characteristics , several different frequency conversion methods are employed and compared on the basis of conversion gain and distortion and intermodulation effects.