Power combiner vs mixer 1

[Leiser]

Hi all,

could anyone explain the difference between a power combiner and a mixer?

Thanks in advance!

 

[logbook]

A power combiner allows powers at the same or different frequencies to be added.

A mixer is a frequency translator. In a down converter mode of operation, you supply an LO (local oscillator) and an RF (Radio Frequency). The difference frequency comes out of the IF (intermediate frequency) port. Have a look at the RFcafe for these elementary definitions.

http://www.rfcafe.com/

 

[Leiser]

Hi,

thanks for you answer. I´m doing IMR measurements. We used a frequency mixer from minicircuits to get the third intermodulation product. However, I have noticed that some people use a power combiner. So that´s when I started to consider the difference.

I checked it in RF-cafe but I couldn´t find any definitions, could you please tell me where is this section? I tried under Appetizers then definitions.

I don´t understand you definition in the case we are using them, IMRR measurements, two-tones for example 88 and 89MHz same frequency. Could we use both the power combiner and the frequency mixer for this measurement?

 

[logbook]

This page isn't what I was thinking of, but may help

http://www.rfcafe.com/references/electrical.htm

Try this:

http://www.microwaves101.com/encyclopedia/couplers.cfm

You really ought to consider getting yourself some more text books.

http://www.rfcafe.com/references/books.htm

(Analog or RF)
I tend to buy several per year by way of Continuous Professional Development.

 

[logbook]

http://www.ntia.doc.gov/osmhome/reports/tr97343/tr97343c.html

 

[Leiser]

Thanks logbook for your help!.