Noise Wave Modeling of an SIS Mixer and Its IF Circuit Using Tucker's Quantum Theory of Mixing

Abstract

Tucker's Quantum Theory of Mixing (QTM) is widely used to model the conversion gain and noise temperature of SIS mixers. In particular, the theory describes the phenomenon of non-classical conversion gain and that of infinite or even negative output impedances in inductively tuned SIS mixers. Common microwave noise theory is inadequate to describe the operation of the IF circuit connected to such mixers. In this paper, we report the use of the noise wave formalism to model the noise properties of a Double-Side-Band SIS mixer together with an IF isolator and low noise amplifier cascade. Starting from QTM, we derive the 4 noise parameters of the SIS mixer, together with an approximate 2-port chain matrix with an upper-side-band RF input port and an IF output port. These matrices are cascaded with the noise correlation matrix of the IF circuit to form a complete noise model of the SIS receiver. Optimum source impedance for the receiver can be derived from this noise model, which can be used in efficient CAD modeling of a complete SIS receiver.