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Home Resources App Notes AN-Compensating IQ Mixer Imbalance in the SC2426

Compensating IQ Mixer Imbalance in the
SC2426

This application note describes how to utilize the IQ DC bias feature of the SC2426 and a procedure to determine the suitable
DC bias voltages to apply.

 

The SC2426 RF Up/Down Converter is a stand-alone platform for use with signals in the 6 to 26 GHz range. A key component used in both the Transmit and Receive paths of the SC2426 is an IQ Mixer. IQ mixers depend on phase and amplitude balance between the I and Q paths to achieve the best performance. Any IQ imbalance will result in LO feedthrough, RF/IF feedthrough and spurious products. However, due to manufacturing limitations, there will always be some degree of imbalance between the I and Q paths.

 

To compensate for these imbalances, a common technique is to apply independent DC bias voltages to each of the I and Q paths. By applying the appropriate DC bias voltage levels, the inherent imbalances can be greatly reduced and improve the performance of the system. The SC2426 provides a mechanism to apply the necessary independent DC bias voltages to the I and Q paths on the Transmit direction.

 

This app note contains:

 

  • An overview of SC2426 RF Up/Down Converter
  • LO Leakage Characteristics
  • Support Commands & Protocols
  • Detailed Procedures

 

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