An 8–10-GHz Low-Loss Image-Reject HTS Mixer Based on Cascaded Josephson Junctions

Abstract

A 7.8-9.8-GHz low-loss high- T <sub xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">c</sub> superconducting (HTS) image-reject Josephson junction mixer is presented in this letter. Image rejection is achieved using low-loss image rejection filters and a pair of parallel dual-mode resonators. Three cascaded Josephson junctions are monolithically integrated with impedance matching networks and bandpass/low-pass filters on a single chip for low loss and compactness. The implementation of series junction array increased the overall junction equivalent impedance, so that a better impedance matching is achieved. Measurement results of the novel HTS mixer showed a low conversion loss at 5.5 dB and an image-reject ratio over 30 dB within the desired frequency. The proposed cascaded junction configuration provides a new approach for impedance matching in HTS mixer designs, and the demonstrated mixer performance makes it an ideal candidate for X-band radar systems.