Frequency RF Down Converter for HackerRF detector module

If the frequency range of down-conversion products available on the market does not meet your project requirements, we can customize and specially design and produce frequency down-conversion converters according to your requirements.

Specificaiton

input frequency: 6 GHz ~10 GHz
output frequency: 1 GHz ~5 GHz
Local frequency: 5 GHz
Noise Figure: ≤2.5dB
Gain: 15 dB
Carrier leakage: ≤-20dBm
IIP3: ≥+10dBm
maximum input level: -10dBm
VSWR: ≤1.5V
V1\V2\V3 H: +1.8V~+5V L:0V~0.2V
operation temperature: -10~+60°C
voltage current: ≤12V/1A
RF Interface: SMA-50KFD
Size:
Power supply mode: Socket power supply

Feature

1. RF Down Converter input: 6~8GHz
2. RF Down Converter output: 1~3GHz (or under 5GHz)
3. An on/off control signal operates the RF switch: (off for ~6Ghz, on for RF down converter)

Technical parameters you need to know for customization

1. Gain
2. Loss
3. Power Supply: 12Vdc and 5Vdc and 24Vdc
4. Size
5. Connector.

Frequency Down Converter FDC

A frequency down converter (FDC) is a circuit that lowers the frequency of a signal while preserving the information it carries. Many radio frequency (RF) and communication systems, particularly receivers in radios, satellites, and radar, utilize the widely-used process of downconversion.

RF Mixer

An RF mixer combines an input radio frequency signal and a local oscillator signal to create sum and difference frequencies.

Local Oscillator LO

The local oscillator (LO) produces a stable reference frequency that is mixed with the incoming signal. We typically find the desired local oscillator frequency by subtracting the input frequency from the output frequency.frequency can be obtained by subtracting the output frequency from the input frequency.

Filter:

The higher frequencies are removed or blocked, leaving or passing only the desired lower frequency (difference frequency).

Applications

Communications Systems:

Communication Systems include converting RF signals into intermediate frequencies to facilitate easier processing.

Radar Systems:

Radar Systems utilize frequency reduction of returned radar signals for analysis purposes.
Satellite Receivers:

Satellite Receivers are employed to convert high-frequency satellite signals into a manageable intermediate frequency for further processing.

Test Equipment:

these converters are utilized in various test equipment, such as spectrum analyzers and signal processing devices.

How to choose frequency RF Down Converter Considerations

• Frequency Requirements:

Confirm that the downconverter’s frequency coverage is appropriate for your application. We can customize the frequency RF converter’s input and output frequency.

• Signal Loss:

Note that the downconverter may reduce signal strength due to insertion loss.

• Power Supply:

Verify that the downconverter’s power requirements are compatible with your setup, especially if using bias tee power from the Hackrf moudule.

• Dimension size

We will try to make the product as small as possible. If you have special size requirements, please let us know in advance and design the layout of RF down-conversion.

FAQ

Q. Can the operating frequency range be extended from 6–8 GHz to 6–9 GHz or 6–10 GHz?

A: Yes. The frequency range can be extended up to 6–10 GHz upon request.

Please note:

• Electrical performance (insertion loss, isolation, return loss, etc.) may vary slightly across the extended band.
• Final specifications will be confirmed in the official datasheet.

For projects requiring operation beyond 8 GHz, please inform us in advance so we can optimize the design accordingly.

Q: If I order samples, can you provide the schematic (PDF) and aluminum housing drawing (PDF)?

A: Yes. For sample orders, we can provide:

• Schematic diagram (PDF version)
• Aluminum housing drawing (PDF version)

Please note:

• The housing drawing will show general outline dimensions only.
• Exact mechanical tolerances and detailed internal structural dimensions are not included.
• The documents are provided for evaluation and integration reference purposes.

Q: Can a 5 VDC on/off control signal be used to control the SP3T switch?

A: Yes, 5 VDC control signals can be used. The SP3T switch requires:

• Three (3) independent control signals

• Each signal: 5 VDC level

• Standard digital ON/OFF control logic

Please ensure:

• The control voltage is stable at 5 VDC.

• Proper grounding is implemented.

• Control timing meets the switching requirements.

If needed, we can also provide the control logic truth table.