High Frequency Mixer Based on Non-linear Phenomena in Ferromagnetic Films
SUMMARY
UCLA researchers in the departments of Electrical Engineering and Physics have developed and implemented a high frequency mixer using a passive, nanometer-thick, ferromagnetic film structure.
BACKGROUND
Frequency mixers are used extensively in radio transceivers to convert radio frequency (RF) signals into baseband signals, and vice versa. Typically, mixers are implemented using active electronic devices like diodes, field effect transistors, or bipolar transistors. However, these active devices consume precious battery power and, due to their noise contributions, degrade receiver sensitivity. Furthermore, the RF frequency at which these devices may be used is limited by the internal delays of the device itself. For those reasons, a mixing device that consumes no power, adds minimal noise, and operates at extremely high frequencies would be of great benefit. The passive, nanometer-thick, ferromagnetic film mixer disclosed here provides those benefits.
INNOVATION
The invention discloses a new high frequency mixer structure for use in radio transceivers. The structure uses the non-linear magnetic properties associated with ferromagnetic materials for frequency conversion. The ferromagnetic structure allows for improved mixer performance and lower power consumption. Because the structure merely requires one simple additional processing step, it is straightforward to implement the device in standard silicon CMOS or BiCMOS fabrication technologies.
APPLICATIONS
- Radio transceivers for wireless applications including cellular telephony, wireless LAN, RFID, etc.
- Secure data encryption
ADVANTAGES
- Reduced power consumption
- Improved noise performance
- Higher operating frequencies
- Improved digital security
STATE OF DEVELOPMENT
The invention has been experimentally demonstrated with a physical prototype.
PATENT STATUS
Issued Patent: United States Of America - 03/29/2016 - 9,300,251