General Description
The MAX9986 high-linearity downconversion mixer pro-
vides 10dB gain, +23.6dBm IIP3, and 9.3dB NF for
815MHz to 995MHz base-station receiver applications.
With a 960MHz to 1180MHz LO frequency range, this
particular mixer is ideal for high-side LO injection
receiver architectures. Low-side LO injection is sup-
ported by the MAX9984, which is pin-for-pin and func-
tionally compatible with the MAX9986.
In addition to offering excellent linearity and noise perfor-
mance, the MAX9986 also yields a high level of compo-
nent integration. This device includes a double-balanced
passive mixer core, an IF amplifier, a dual-input LO selec-
table switch, and an LO buffer. On-chip baluns are also
integrated to allow for single-ended RF and LO inputs.
The MAX9986 requires a nominal LO drive of 0dBm, and
supply current is guaranteed to be below 265mA.
The MAX9984/MAX9986 are pin compatible with the
MAX9994/MAX9996 1700MHz to 2200MHz mixers,
making this entire family of downconverters ideal for
applications where a common PC board layout is used
for both frequency bands. The MAX9986 is also func-
tionally compatible with the MAX9993.
The MAX9986 is available in a compact, 20-pin, thin
QFN package (5mm x 5mm) with an exposed paddle.
Electrical performance is guaranteed over the extended
-40°C to +85°C temperature range.
Applications
850MHz W-CDMA Base Stations
GSM 850/GSM 900 2G and 2.5G EDGE Base
Stations
cdmaOne™ and cdma2000®Base Stations
iDEN®Base Stations
Predistortion Receivers
Fixed Broadband Wireless Access
Wireless Local Loop
Private Mobile Radios
Military Systems
Microwave Links
Digital and Spread-Spectrum Communication
Systems
Features
♦815MHz to 995MHz RF Frequency Range
♦960MHz to 1180MHz LO Frequency Range
(MAX9986)
♦570MHz to 850MHz LO Frequency Range
(MAX9984)
♦50MHz to 250MHz IF Frequency Range
♦10dB Conversion Gain
♦+23.6dBm Input IP3
♦+12dBm Input 1dB Compression Point
♦9.3dB Noise Figure
♦67dBc 2LO-2RF Spurious Rejection at
PRF = -10dBm
♦Integrated LO Buffer
♦Integrated RF and LO Baluns for Single-Ended
Inputs
♦Low -3dBm to +3dBm LO Drive
♦Built-In SPDT LO Switch with 49dB LO1 to LO2
Isolation and 50ns Switching Time
♦Pin Compatible with MAX9994/MAX9996 1700MHz
to 2200MHz Mixers
♦Functionally Compatible with MAX9993
♦External Current-Setting Resistors Provide Option
for Operating Mixer in Reduced Power/Reduced
Performance Mode
♦Lead-Free Package Available
MAX9986
SiGe High-Linearity, 815MHz to 995MHz
Downconversion Mixer with LO Buffer/Switch
________________________________________________________________ Maxim Integrated Products 1
Pin Configuration/Functional Diagram and Typical
Application Circuit appear at end of data sheet.
19-3605; Rev 0; 2/05
For pricing, delivery, and ordering information, please contact Maxim/Dallas Direct! at
1-888-629-4642, or visit Maxim’s website at www.maxim-ic.com.
EVALUATION KIT
AVAILABLE
Ordering Information
*EP = Exposed paddle.
+ = Lead free. D = Dry pack. T = Tape-and-reel.
PART
TEMP RANGE
PIN-PACKAGE
PKG
CODE
MAX9986ETP
- 40° C to + 85° C 20 Thi n QFN - E P *
5m m × 5m m
T2055- 3
MAX9986ETP-T
- 40° C to + 85° C 20 Thi n QFN - E P *
5m m × 5m m
T2055- 3
MAX9986ETP+D
- 40° C to + 85° C 20 Thi n QFN - E P *
5m m × 5m m
T2055- 3
M AX 9986E TP + TD
- 40° C to + 85° C 20 Thi n QFN - E P *
5m m × 5m m
T2055- 3
cdma2000 is a registered trademark of the Telecommunications
Industry Association.
cdmaOne is a trademark of CDMA Development Group.
iDEN is a registered trademark of Motorola, Inc.
MAX9986
SiGe High-Linearity, 815MHz to 995MHz
Downconversion Mixer with LO Buffer/Switch
2_______________________________________________________________________________________
ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS
DC ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS
(MAX9986 Typical Application Circuit, VCC = +4.75V to +5.25V, no RF signal applied, IF+ and IF- outputs pulled up to VCC through
inductive chokes, R1= 953Ω, R2= 619Ω, TC= -40°C to +85°C, unless otherwise noted. Typical values are at VCC = +5V, TC=
+25°C, unless otherwise noted.)
Stresses beyond those listed under “Absolute Maximum Ratings” may cause permanent damage to the device. These are stress ratings only, and functional
operation of the device at these or any other conditions beyond those indicated in the operational sections of the specifications is not implied. Exposure to
absolute maximum rating conditions for extended periods may affect device reliability.
VCC to GND...........................................................-0.3V to +5.5V
IF+, IF-, LOBIAS, LOSEL, IFBIAS to GND...-0.3V to (VCC + 0.3V)
TAP ........................................................................-0.3V to +1.4V
LO1, LO2, LEXT to GND........................................-0.3V to +0.3V
RF, LO1, LO2 Input Power .............................................+12dBm
RF (RF is DC shorted to GND through a balun) .................50mA
Continuous Power Dissipation (TA= +70°C)
20-Pin Thin QFN-EP (derate 26.3mW/°C above +70°C)...........2.1W
θJA .................................................................................+38°C/W
θJC .................................................................................+13°C/W
Operating Temperature Range (Note A) ....TC= -40°C to +85°C
Junction Temperature......................................................+150°C
Storage Temperature Range .............................-65°C to +150°C
Lead Temperature (soldering, 10s) .................................+300°C
Note A: TCis the temperature on the exposed paddle of the package.
PARAMETER
SYMBOL
CONDITIONS
MIN
TYP
MAX
UNITS
Supply Voltage VCC
4.75 5.00 5.25
V
Supply Current ICC
222
265 mA
LO_SEL Input-Logic Low VIL 0.8 V
LO_SEL Input-Logic High VIH 2V
AC ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS
(MAX9986 Typical Application Circuit, VCC = +4.75V to +5.25V, RF and LO ports are driven from 50Ωsources, PLO = -3dBm to
+3dBm, PRF = -5dBm, fRF = 815MHz to 995MHz, fLO = 960MHz to 1180MHz, fIF = 160MHz, fLO > fRF, TC= -40°C to +85°C, unless
otherwise noted. Typical values are at VCC = +5V, PRF = -5dBm, PLO = 0dBm, fRF = 910MHz, fLO = 1070MHz, fIF = 160MHz, TC=
+25°C, unless otherwise noted.) (Note 1)
PARAMETER
SYMBOL
CONDITIONS
MIN
TYP
MAX
UNITS
RF Frequency Range fRF (Note 2)
815 995
MHz
(Note 2)
960 1180
LO Frequency Range fLO MAX9984
570 850
MHz
IF Frequency Range fIF (Note 2) 50
250
MHz
Conversion Gain GCTC = +25°C91011 dB
Gain Variation Over Temperature
TC = -40°C to +85°C
-0.007
dB/°C
Conversion Gain Flatness
Fl atness over any one of thr ee fr equency b and s:
fRF = 824MHz to 849MHz
fRF = 869MHz to 894MHz
fRF = 880MHz to 915MHz
±0.15
dB
Input Compression Point P1dB (Note 3) 12
dBm
Input Third-Order Intercept Point
IIP3
Two tones:
fRF1 = 910MHz, fRF2 = 911MHz,
PRF = -5dBm/tone, fLO = 1070MHz,
PLO = 0dBm, TA = +25°C
21
23.6
dBm
TC = +25°C to -40°C
-1.7
Input IP3 Variation Over
Temperature TC = +25°C to +85°C
+1.0
dB
MAX9986
SiGe High-Linearity, 815MHz to 995MHz
Downconversion Mixer with LO Buffer/Switch
_______________________________________________________________________________________ 3
Note 1: All limits include external component losses. Output measurements taken at IF output of the Typical Application Circuit.
Note 2: Operation outside this range is possible, but with degraded performance of some parameters.
Note 3: Compression point characterized. It is advisable not to operate continuously the mixer RF input above +12dBm.
Note 4: Measured with external LO source noise filtered so the noise floor is -174dBm/Hz. This specification reflects the effects of all
SNR degradations in the mixer, including the LO noise as defined in Maxim Application Note 2021.
Note 5: Guaranteed by design and characterization.
AC ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS (continued)
(MAX9986 Typical Application Circuit, VCC = +4.75V to +5.25V, RF and LO ports are driven from 50Ωsources, PLO = -3dBm to
+3dBm, PRF = -5dBm, fRF = 815MHz to 995MHz, fLO = 960MHz to 1180MHz, fIF = 160MHz, fLO > fRF, TC= -40°C to +85°C, unless
otherwise noted. Typical values are at VCC = +5V, PRF = -5dBm, PLO = 0dBm, fRF = 910MHz, fLO = 1070MHz, fIF = 160MHz, TC=
+25°C, unless otherwise noted.) (Note 1)
PARAMETER
SYMBOL
CONDITIONS
MIN
TYP
MAX
UNITS
Noise Figure NF Single sideband, fIF = 190MHz 9.3 dB
P
B LOC K E R =
+ 8d Bm 19
Noise Figure Under-Blocking
fR F = 900M H z ( no si g nal )
fL O = 1090M H z
fB LOC K E R = 990M H z
fI F = 190M H z
( N ote 4)
P
B LOC K E R =
+ 11d Bm 24
dB
P
B LOC K E R =
+ 8d Bm 0.3
Small-Signal Compression
Under-Blocking Condition
PFUNDAMENTAL = -5dBm
fF U N D A M E N TA L = 910M H z
fB LOC K E R = 911M H zP
B LOC K E R =
+ 11d Bm 2
dB
LO Drive -3 +3
dBm
PRF = -10dBm 67
2 x 2 2LO-2RF PRF = -5dBm 62
PRF = -10dBm 87
Spurious Response at IF
3 x 3 3LO-3RF PRF = -5dBm 77
dBc
LO2 selected 42 49
LO1 to LO2 Isolation PLO = +3dBm
TC = +25°C (Note 5) LO1 selected 42 50 dB
LO Leakage at RF Port PLO = +3dBm -47
dBm
LO Leakage at IF Port PLO = +3dBm -30
dBm
RF-to-IF Isolation 46 dB
LO Switching Time 50% of LOSEL to IF settled to within 2°50 ns
RF Port Return Loss 20 dB
LO1/2 port selected,
LO2/1 and IF terminated 27
LO Port Return Loss
LO1/2 port unselected,
LO2/1 and IF terminated 26
dB
IF Port Return Loss LO driven at 0dBm, RF terminated into 50Ω,
differential 200Ω22 dB
Typical Operating Characteristics
(MAX9986 Typical Application Circuit, VCC = +5.0V, PLO = 0dBm, PRF = -5dBm, fLO > fRF, fIF = 160MHz, unless otherwise noted.)
7
8
10
9
11
12
740 790 840 890 940 990 1040
CONVERSION GAIN vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX9986 toc01
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
CONVERSION GAIN (dB)
TC = +85°C
TC = -25°C
TC = -40°C
TC = +25°C
7
8
10
9
11
12
740 790 840 890 940 990 1040
CONVERSION GAIN vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX9986 toc02
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
CONVERSION GAIN (dB)
PLO = -3dBm, 0dBm, +3dBm
7
8
10
9
11
12
740 790 840 890 940 990 1040
CONVERSION GAIN vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX9986 toc03
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
CONVERSION GAIN (dB)
VCC = 4.75V, 5.0V, 5.25V
19
21
20
23
22
25
24
26
INPUT IP3 vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX9986 toc04
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
INPUT IP3 (dBm)
740 790 840 890 940 990 1040
TC = +85°C
TC = -25°C
TC = -40°C
TC = +25°C
19
21
20
23
22
25
24
26
INPUT IP3 vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX9986 toc05
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
INPUT IP3 (dBm)
740 790 840 890 940 990 1040
PLO = +3dBm, 0dBm, -3dBm
20
19
23
22
21
25
24
26
INPUT IP3 vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX9986 toc06
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
INPUT IP3 (dBm)
740 790 840 890 940 990 1040
VCC = 5.25V VCC = 5.0V
VCC = 4.75V
6
8
7
10
11
9
12
760 820 880 940 1000
NOISE FIGURE vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX9986 toc07
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
NOISE FIGURE (dB)
IF = 190MHz
TC = -40°C
TC = +85°C
TC = +25°C
TC = -25°C
6
7
8
10
11
9
12
760 820 880 940 1000
NOISE FIGURE vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX9986 toc08
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
NOISE FIGURE (dB)
PLO = +3dBm, 0dBm, -3dBm
IF = 190MHz
6
7
8
10
11
9
12
760 820 880 940 1000
NOISE FIGURE vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX9986 toc09
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
NOISE FIGURE (dB)
IF = 190MHz
VCC = 4.75V, 5.0V, 5.25V
MAX9986
SiGe High-Linearity, 815MHz to 995MHz
Downconversion Mixer with LO Buffer/Switch
4_______________________________________________________________________________________
45
60
70
50
55
65
75
740 790 840 890 940 1040
2LO-2RF RESPONSE vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX9986 toc10
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
2LO-2RF RESPONSE (dBc)
PRF = -5dBm
TC = -40°C, -25°C
TC = +85°C
TC = +25°C
990
45
60
70
50
55
65
75
740 790 840 890 940 990 1040
2LO-2RF RESPONSE vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX9986 toc11
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
2LO-2RF RESPONSE (dBc)
PLO = -3dBm
PLO = +3dBm
PLO = 0dBm
PRF = -5dBm
45
60
70
50
55
65
75
740 790 840 890 940 990 1040
2LO-2RF RESPONSE vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX9986 toc12
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
2LO-2RF RESPONSE (dBc)
VCC = 5.0V
VCC = 4.75V
VCC = 5.25V
PRF = -5dBm
55
80
90
65
60
75
70
85
95
740 790 840 890 940 990 1040
3LO-3RF RESPONSE vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX9986 toc13
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
3LO-3RF RESPONSE (dBc)
PRF = -5dBm
TC = -40°C
TC = +25°C
TC = +85°C
TC = -25°C
55
80
90
65
60
75
70
85
95
740 790 840 890 940 990 1040
3LO-3RF RESPONSE vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX9986 toc14
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
3LO-3RF RESPONSE (dBc)
PLO = -3dBm, 0dBm, +3dBm
PRF = -5dBm
55
80
90
65
60
75
70
85
95
740 790 840 890 940 990 1040
3LO-3RF RESPONSE vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX9986 toc15
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
3LO-3RF RESPONSE (dBc)
VCC = 4.75V, 5.0V, 5.25V
PRF = -5dBm
8
11
13
10
9
12
14
740 790 840 890 940 990 1040
INPUT P1dB vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX9986 toc16
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
INPUT P1dB (dBm)
TC = -40°C
TC = +25°CTC = +85°C
TC = -25°C
8
11
13
10
9
12
14
740 790 840 890 940 990 1040
INPUT P1dB vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX9986 toc17
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
INPUT P1dB (dBm)
PLO = -3dBm, 0dBm, +3dBm
8
11
13
10
9
12
14
740 790 840 890 940 990 1040
INPUT P1dB vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX9986 toc18
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
INPUT P1dB (dBm)
VCC = 4.75V
VCC = 5.0V
VCC = 5.25V
Typical Operating Characteristics (continued)
(MAX9986 Typical Application Circuit, VCC = +5.0V, PLO = 0dBm, PRF = -5dBm, fLO > fRF, fIF = 160MHz, unless otherwise noted.)
MAX9986
SiGe High-Linearity, 815MHz to 995MHz
Downconversion Mixer with LO Buffer/Switch
_______________________________________________________________________________________ 5
Typical Operating Characteristics (continued)
(MAX9986 Typical Application Circuit, VCC = +5.0V, PLO = 0dBm, PRF = -5dBm, fLO > fRF, fIF = 160MHz, unless otherwise noted.)
40
45
55
50
60
900 950 1000 1050 1100 1150 1200
LO SWITCH ISOLATION
vs. LO FREQUENCY
MAX9986 toc20
LO FREQUENCY (MHz)
LO SWITCH ISOLATION (dB)
PLO = -3dBm, 0dBm, +3dBm
40
45
55
50
60
900 950 1000 1050 1100 1150 1200
LO SWITCH ISOLATION
vs. LO FREQUENCY
MAX9986 toc19
LO FREQUENCY (MHz)
LO SWITCH ISOLATION (dB)
TC = -40°C, -25°C
TC = +25°C
TC = +85°C
40
45
55
50
60
900 950 1000 1050 1100 1150 1200
LO SWITCH ISOLATION
vs. LO FREQUENCY
MAX9986 toc21
LO FREQUENCY (MHz)
LO SWITCH ISOLATION (dB)
VCC = 4.75V, 5.0V, 5.25V
-40
-35
-20
-25
-30
-10
-15
900 950 1000 1050 1100 1150 1200
LO LEAKAGE AT IF PORT
vs. LO FREQUENCY
MAX9986 toc22
LO FREQUENCY (MHz)
LO LEAKAGE AT IF PORT (dBm)
TC = -40°C, -25°C
TC = +25°C
TC = +85°C
-40
-35
-20
-25
-30
-10
-15
900 950 1000 1050 1100 1150 1200
LO LEAKAGE AT IF PORT
vs. LO FREQUENCY
MAX9986 toc23
LO FREQUENCY (MHz)
LO LEAKAGE AT IF PORT (dBm)
PLO = +3dBm PLO = 0dBm
PLO = -3dBm
-40
-35
-20
-25
-30
-10
-15
900 950 1000 1050 1100 1150 1200
LO LEAKAGE AT IF PORT
vs. LO FREQUENCY
MAX9986 toc24
LO FREQUENCY (MHz)
LO LEAKAGE AT IF PORT (dBm)
VCC = 4.75V
VCC = 5.25V VCC = 5.0V
-60
-40
-50
-30
900 950 1000 1050 1100 1150 1200
MAX9986 toc25
LO FREQUENCY (MHz)
LO LEAKAGE AT RF PORT (dBm)
LO LEAKAGE AT RF PORT
vs. LO FREQUENCY
TC = +85°C
TC = -40°C, -25°C
TC = +25°C
LO LEAKAGE AT RF PORT
vs. LO FREQUENCY
MAX9986 toc26
LO FREQUENCY (MHz)
LO LEAKAGE AT RF PORT (dBm)
1150110010501000950
-50
-40
-30
-60
900 1200
PLO = -3dBm, 0dBm, +3dBm
LO LEAKAGE AT RF PORT
vs. LO FREQUENCY
MAX9986 toc27
LO FREQUENCY (MHz)
LO LEAKAGE AT RF PORT (dBm)
1150110010501000950
-50
-40
-30
-60
900 1200
VCC = 4.75V, 5.0V, 5.25V
MAX9986
SiGe High-Linearity, 815MHz to 995MHz
Downconversion Mixer with LO Buffer/Switch
6_______________________________________________________________________________________
RF-TO-IF ISOLATION
vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX9986 toc28
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
RF-TO-IF ISOLATION (dB)
990940890840790
35
40
45
50
55
60
30
740 1040
TC = -40°C, -25°C
TC = +25°C
TC = +85°C
RF-TO-IF ISOLATION
vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX9986 toc29
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
RF-TO-IF ISOLATION (dB)
990940890840790
35
40
45
50
55
60
30
740 1040
PLO = +3dBm
PLO = -3dBm
PLO = 0dBm
RF-TO-IF ISOLATION
vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX9986 toc30
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
RF-TO-IF ISOLATION (dB)
990940890840790
35
40
45
50
55
60
30
740 1040
VCC = 4.75V, 5.0V, 5.25V
30
40
0
35
20
25
10
15
5
740 800 860 920 980 1040 1100
RF PORT RETURN LOSS
vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX9986 toc31
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
RF PORT RETURN LOSS (dB)
PLO = -3dBm, 0dBm, +3dBm
30
0
40
35
20
25
10
15
5
50 150 200100 250 300 350
IF PORT RETURN LOSS
vs. IF FREQUENCY
MAX9986 toc32
IF FREQUENCY (MHz)
IF PORT RETURN LOSS (dB)
VCC = 4.75V, 5.0V, 5.25V
40
0
50
30
20
10
700 800 900 1000 1100 1200 1300
LO SELECTED RETURN LOSS
vs. LO FREQUENCY
MAX9986 toc33
LO FREQUENCY (MHz)
LO SELECTED RETURN LOSS (dB)
PLO = -3dBm
PLO = 0dBm
PLO = +3dBm
40
0
50
30
20
10
700 800 900 1000 1100 1200 1300
LO UNSELECTED RETURN LOSS
vs. LO FREQUENCY
MAX9986 toc34
LO FREQUENCY (MHz)
LO UNSELECTED RETURN LOSS (dB)
PLO = -3dBm, 0dBm, +3dBm
220
210
240
200
230
-40 -15 10 35 8560
SUPPLY CURRENT
vs. TEMPERATURE (TC)
MAX9986 toc35
TEMPERATURE (°C)
SUPPLY CURRENT (mA)
VCC = 4.75V
VCC = 5.0V
VCC = 5.25V
Typical Operating Characteristics (continued)
(MAX9986 Typical Application Circuit, VCC = +5.0V, PLO = 0dBm, PRF = -5dBm, fLO > fRF, fIF = 160MHz, unless otherwise noted.)
MAX9986
SiGe High-Linearity, 815MHz to 995MHz
Downconversion Mixer with LO Buffer/Switch
_______________________________________________________________________________________ 7
MAX9986
SiGe High-Linearity, 815MHz to 995MHz
Downconversion Mixer with LO Buffer/Switch
8_______________________________________________________________________________________
Detailed Description
The MAX9986 high-linearity downconversion mixer
provides 10dB of conversion gain and +23.6dBm of
IIP3, with a typical 9.3dB noise figure. The integrated
baluns and matching circuitry allow for 50Ωsingle-
ended interfaces to the RF and the two LO ports. A sin-
gle-pole, double-throw (SPDT) switch provides 50ns
switching time between the two LO inputs with 49dB of
LO-to-LO isolation. Furthermore, the integrated LO
buffer provides a high drive level to the mixer core,
reducing the LO drive required at the MAX9986’s
inputs to a -3dBm to +3dBm range. The IF port incor-
porates a differential output, which is ideal for provid-
ing enhanced IIP2 performance.
Specifications are guaranteed over broad frequency
ranges to allow for use in cellular band GSM,
cdma2000, iDEN, and W-CDMA 2G/2.5G/3G base sta-
tions. The MAX9986 is specified to operate over a
815MHz to 995MHz RF frequency range, a 960MHz to
1180MHz LO frequency range, and a 50MHz to
250MHz IF frequency range. Operation beyond these
ranges is possible; see the Typical Operating
Characteristics for additional details.
RF Input and Balun
The MAX9986 RF input is internally matched to 50Ω,
requiring no external matching components. A DC-
blocking capacitor is required because the input is inter-
nally DC shorted to ground through the on-chip balun.
LO Inputs, Buffer, and Balun
The MAX9986 is ideally suited for high-side LO injec-
tion applications with a 960MHz to 1180MHz LO fre-
quency range. For a device with a 570MHz to 850MHz
LO frequency range, refer to the MAX9984 data sheet.
As an added feature, the MAX9986 includes an internal
LO SPDT switch that can be used for frequency-hop-
ping applications. The switch selects one of the two
single-ended LO ports, allowing the external oscillator
to settle on a particular frequency before it is switched
in. LO switching time is typically less than 50ns, which
is more than adequate for virtually all GSM applica-
tions. If frequency hopping is not employed, set the
switch to either of the LO inputs. The switch is con-
trolled by a digital input (LOSEL): logic-high selects
LO2, logic-low selects LO1. To avoid damage to the
part, voltage must be applied to VCC before digital
logic is applied to LOSEL. LO1 and LO2 inputs are
internally matched to 50Ω, requiring only a 82pF DC-
blocking capacitor.
Pin Description
PIN NAME FUNCTION
1, 6, 8, 14
VCC Power-Supply Connection. Bypass each VCC pin to GND with capacitors as shown in the Typical
Application Circuit.
2RF
Single-Ended 50Ω RF Input. This port is internally matched and DC shorted to GND through a balun.
Requires an external DC-blocking capacitor.
3TAP Center Tap of the Internal RF Balun. Bypass to GND with capacitors close to the IC, as shown in the
Typical Application Circuit.
4, 5, 10, 12,
13, 17 GND Ground
7LOBIAS Bias Resistor for Internal LO Buffer. Connect a 619Ω ±1% resistor from LOBIAS to the power supply.
9LOSEL Local Oscillator Select. Logic control input for selecting LO1 or LO2.
11 LO1 Local Oscillator Input 1. Drive LOSEL low to select LO1.
15 LO2 Local Oscillator Input 2. Drive LOSEL high to select LO2.
16 LEXT External Inductor Connection. Connect a low-ESR, 30nH inductor from LEXT to GND. This inductor
carries approximately 140mA DC current.
18, 19 IF-, IF+ Differential IF Outputs. Each output requires external bias to VCC through an RF choke (see the
Typical Application Circuit).
20 IFBIAS IF Bias Resistor Connection for IF Amplifier. Connect a 953Ω ±1% resistor from IFBIAS to GND.
EP GND Exposed Ground Paddle. Solder the exposed paddle to the ground plane using multiple vias.
MAX9986
SiGe High-Linearity, 815MHz to 995MHz
Downconversion Mixer with LO Buffer/Switch
_______________________________________________________________________________________ 9
A two-stage internal LO buffer allows a wide input
power range for the LO drive. All guaranteed specifica-
tions are for an LO signal power from -3dBm to +3dBm.
The on-chip low-loss balun, along with an LO buffer,
drives the double-balanced mixer. All interfacing and
matching components from the LO inputs to the IF out-
puts are integrated on-chip.
High-Linearity Mixer
The core of the MAX9986 is a double-balanced, high-
performance passive mixer. Exceptional linearity is pro-
vided by the large LO swing from the on-chip LO
buffer. When combined with the integrated IF ampli-
fiers, the cascaded IIP3, 2LO-2RF rejection, and NF
performance is typically 23.6dBm, 67dBc, and 9.3dB,
respectively.
Differential IF Output Amplifier
The MAX9986 mixer has a 50MHz to 250MHz IF fre-
quency range. The differential, open-collector IF output
ports require external pullup inductors to VCC. Note that
these differential outputs are ideal for providing
enhanced 2LO-2RF rejection performance. Single-
ended IF applications require a 4:1 balun to transform
the 200Ωdifferential output impedance to a 50Ωsingle-
ended output.
Applications Information
Input and Output Matching
The RF and LO inputs are internally matched to 50Ω. No
matching components are required. RF and LO inputs
require only DC-blocking capacitors for interfacing.
The IF output impedance is 200Ω(differential). For
evaluation, an external low-loss 4:1 (impedance ratio)
balun transforms this impedance down to a 50Ωsingle-
ended output (see the Typical Application Circuit).
Bias Resistors
Bias currents for the LO buffer and the IF amplifier are
optimized by fine tuning resistors R1 and R2. If
reduced current is required at the expense of perfor-
mance, contact the factory for details. If the ±1% bias
resistor values are not readily available, substitute stan-
dard ±5% values.
LEXT Inductor
LEXT serves to improve the LO-to-IF and RF-to-IF leak-
age. The inductance value can be adjusted by the user to
optimize the performance for a particular frequency
band. Since approximately 140mA flows through this
inductor, it is important to use a low-DCR wire-wound coil.
If the LO-to-IF and RF-to-IF leakage are not critical
parameters, the inductor can be replaced by a short
circuit to ground.
Layout Considerations
A properly designed PC board is an essential part of
any RF/microwave circuit. Keep RF signal lines as short
as possible to reduce losses, radiation, and induc-
tance. For the best performance, route the ground pin
traces directly to the exposed pad under the package.
The PC board exposed pad MUST be connected to the
ground plane of the PC board. It is suggested that mul-
tiple vias be used to connect this pad to the lower level
ground planes. This method provides a good RF/ther-
mal conduction path for the device. Solder the exposed
pad on the bottom of the device package to the PC
board. The MAX9986 Evaluation Kit can be used as a
reference for board layout. Gerber files are available
upon request at www.maxim-ic.com.
Power-Supply Bypassing
Proper voltage-supply bypassing is essential for high-
frequency circuit stability. Bypass each VCC pin and
TAP with the capacitors shown in the Typical Application
Circuit; see Table 1. Place the TAP bypass capacitor to
ground within 100 mils of the TAP pin.
Exposed Pad RF/Thermal Considerations
The exposed paddle (EP) of the MAX9986’s 20-pin thin
QFN-EP package provides a low thermal-resistance
path to the die. It is important that the PC board on
which the MAX9986 is mounted be designed to con-
duct heat from the EP. In addition, provide the EP with
a low-inductance path to electrical ground. The EP
MUST be soldered to a ground plane on the PC board,
either directly or through an array of plated via holes.
Chip Information
TRANSISTOR COUNT: 1017
PROCESS: SiGe BiCMOS
MAX9986
SiGe High-Linearity, 815MHz to 995MHz
Downconversion Mixer with LO Buffer/Switch
10 ______________________________________________________________________________________
COMPONENT VALUE DESCRIPTION
L1, L2 330nH Wire-wound high-Q inductors (0805)
L3 30nH Wire-wound high-Q inductor (0603)
C1 10pF Microwave capacitor (0603)
C2, C4, C7, C8, C10, C11, C12
82pF Microwave capacitors (0603)
C3, C5, C6, C9, C13, C14 0.01µF Microwave capacitors (0603)
C15 220pF Microwave capacitor (0402)
R1 953Ω±1% resistor (0603)
R2 619Ω±1% resistor (0603)
R3 3.57Ω±1% resistor (1206)
T1 4:1 balun IF balun
U1 MAX9986 Maxim IC
Table 1. Component List Referring to the Typical Application Circuit
Pin Configuration/Functional Diagram
MAX9986
1
2
3
4
5
15
14
13
12
11
678910
20 19 18 17 16
GND
LOSEL
LOBIAS
TAP
RF
VCC
THIN QFN
VCC
VCC
VCC
GND
GND
LO2
GND
LEXT
IFBIAS
IF-
IF+
GND
LO1
GND
MAX9986
SiGe High-Linearity, 815MHz to 995MHz
Downconversion Mixer with LO Buffer/Switch
______________________________________________________________________________________ 11
Typical Application Circuit
MAX9986
1
2
3
4
5
15
14
13
12
11
678910
20 19 18 17 16
GND
C4
C11
C6 C7
R2
C3
C14
C13
C15
C5
C1
RF
INPUT
C10
C12
LO1
INPUT
LO2
INPUT
IF
OUTPUT
LOSEL
LOBIAS
C2
C8
C9
TAP
RF
VCC
VCC
VCC
LOSEL
INPUT
VCC
VCC
VCC
VCC
R1
R3
L2
L1
L3
1
3
2
6
4
T1
VCC
VCC
GND
GND
LO2
GND
LEXT
IFBIAS
IF-
IF+
GND
LO1
GND
MAX9986
SiGe High-Linearity, 815MHz to 995MHz
Downconversion Mixer with LO Buffer/Switch
Maxim cannot assume responsibility for use of any circuitry other than circuitry entirely embodied in a Maxim product. No circuit patent licenses are
implied. Maxim reserves the right to change the circuitry and specifications without notice at any time.
12 ____________________Maxim Integrated Products, 120 San Gabriel Drive, Sunnyvale, CA 94086 408-737-7600
©2005 Maxim Integrated Products Printed USA is a registered trademark of Maxim Integrated Products, Inc.
Package Information
(The package drawing(s) in this data sheet may not reflect the most current specifications. For the latest package outline information
go to www.maxim-ic.com/packages.)
QFN THIN.EPS
D2
(ND-1) X e
e
D
C
PIN # 1
I.D.
(NE-1) X e
E/2
E
0.08 C
0.10 C
A
A1 A3
DETAIL A
E2/2
E2
0.10 M C A B
PIN # 1 I.D.
b
0.35x45°
D/2 D2/2
L
C
L
C
e e
L
CC
L
k
LL
DETAIL B
L
L1
e
XXXXX
MARKING
H1
2
21-0140
PACKAGE OUTLINE,
16, 20, 28, 32, 40L THIN QFN, 5x5x0.8mm
-DRAWING NOT TO SCALE-
L
e/2
COMMON DIMENSIONS
3.353.15T2855-1 3.25 3.353.15 3.25
MAX.
3.20
EXPOSED PAD VARIATIONS
3.00T2055-2 3.10
D2
NOM.MIN.
3.203.00 3.10
MIN.
E2
NOM. MAX.
NE
ND
PKG.
CODES
1. DIMENSIONING & TOLERANCING CONFORM TO ASME Y14.5M-1994.
2. ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN MILLIMETERS. ANGLES ARE IN DEGREES.
3. N IS THE TOTAL NUMBER OF TERMINALS.
4. THE TERMINAL #1 IDENTIFIER AND TERMINAL NUMBERING CONVENTION SHALL
CONFORM TO JESD 95-1 SPP-012. DETAILS OF TERMINAL #1 IDENTIFIER ARE
OPTIONAL, BUT MUST BE LOCATED WITHIN THE ZONE INDICATED. THE TERMINAL #1
IDENTIFIER MAY BE EITHER A MOLD OR MARKED FEATURE.
5. DIMENSION b APPLIES TO METALLIZED TERMINAL AND IS MEASURED BETWEEN
0.25 mm AND 0.30 mm FROM TERMINAL TIP.
6. ND AND NE REFER TO THE NUMBER OF TERMINALS ON EACH D AND E SIDE RESPECTIVELY.
7. DEPOPULATION IS POSSIBLE IN A SYMMETRICAL FASHION.
8. COPLANARITY APPLIES TO THE EXPOSED HEAT SINK SLUG AS WELL AS THE TERMINALS.
9. DRAWING CONFORMS TO JEDEC MO220, EXCEPT EXPOSED PAD DIMENSION FOR T2855-1,
T2855-3, AND T2855-6.
NOTES:
SYMBOL
PKG.
N
L1
e
E
D
b
A3
A
A1
k
10. WARPAGE SHALL NOT EXCEED 0.10 mm.
JEDEC
T1655-1 3.203.00 3.10 3.00 3.10 3.20
0.70 0.800.75
4.90
4.90
0.25
0.25
0
--
4
WHHB
4
16
0.350.30
5.10
5.105.00
0.80 BSC.
5.00
0.05
0.20 REF.
0.02
MIN. MAX.NOM.
16L 5x5
3.10
T3255-2 3.00 3.20 3.00 3.10 3.20
2.70
T2855-2 2.60 2.602.80 2.70 2.80
L0.30 0.500.40
------
WHHC
20
5
5
5.00
5.00
0.30
0.55
0.65 BSC.
0.45
0.25
4.90
4.90
0.25
0.65
--
5.10
5.10
0.35
20L 5x5
0.20 REF.
0.75
0.02
NOM.
0
0.70
MIN.
0.05
0.80
MAX.
---
WHHD-1
28
7
7
5.00
5.00
0.25
0.55
0.50 BSC.
0.45
0.25
4.90
4.90
0.20
0.65
--
5.10
5.10
0.30
28L 5x5
0.20 REF.
0.75
0.02
NOM.
0
0.70
MIN.
0.05
0.80
MAX.
---
WHHD-2
32
8
8
5.00
5.00
0.40
0.50 BSC.
0.30
0.25
4.90
4.90
0.50
--
5.10
5.10
32L 5x5
0.20 REF.
0.75
0.02
NOM.
0
0.70
MIN.
0.05
0.80
MAX.
0.20 0.25 0.30
DOWN
BONDS
ALLOWED
NO
YES3.103.00 3.203.103.00 3.20T2055-3
3.103.00 3.203.103.00 3.20T2055-4
T2855-3 3.15 3.25 3.35 3.15 3.25 3.35
T2855-6 3.15 3.25 3.35 3.15 3.25 3.35
T2855-4 2.60 2.70 2.80 2.60 2.70 2.80
T2855-5 2.60 2.70 2.80 2.60 2.70 2.80
T2855-7 2.60 2.70 2.80 2.60 2.70 2.80
3.203.00 3.10T3255-3 3.203.00 3.10
3.203.00 3.10T3255-4 3.203.00 3.10
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
YES
YES
YES
YES
3.203.00T1655-2 3.10 3.00 3.10 3.20 YES
NO3.203.103.003.10T1655N-1 3.00 3.20
3.353.15T2055-5 3.25 3.15 3.25 3.35 YES
3.35
3.15T2855N-1 3.25 3.15 3.25 3.35 NO
3.35
3.15T2855-8 3.25 3.15 3.25 3.35 YES
3.203.10T3255N-1 3.00 NO
3.203.103.00
L
0.40
0.40
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
SEE COMMON DIMENSIONS TABLE
±0.15
11. MARKING IS FOR PACKAGE ORIENTATION REFERENCE ONLY.
H
2
2
21-0140
PACKAGE OUTLINE,
16, 20, 28, 32, 40L THIN QFN, 5x5x0.8mm
-DRAWING NOT TO SCALE-
12. NUMBER OF LEADS SHOWN ARE FOR REFERENCE ONLY.
3.30T4055-1 3.20 3.40 3.20 3.30 3.40 ** YES
0.0500.02
0.600.40 0.50
10
-----
0.30
40
10
0.40 0.50
5.10
4.90 5.00
0.25 0.35 0.45
0.40 BSC.
0.15
4.90
0.250.20
5.00 5.10
0.20 REF.
0.70
MIN.
0.75 0.80
NOM.
40L 5x5
MAX.
13. LEAD CENTERLINES TO BE AT TRUE POSITION AS DEFINED BY BASIC DIMENSION "e", ±0.05.
