A CAD Tool for the Design and Optimization of Schottky Diode Mixers up to Terahertz Frequencies

Emerging applications at millimeter and submillimeter-wave spectral bands demand reliable CAD tools to be employed in the design of receivers up to Terahertz frequencies. In this paper we present a CAD tool for the design and optimization of Schottky diode frequency mixers at millimeter and submillimeter-wave spectral bands. This tool couples a diode physical numerical model with the circuit simulator using a multi-tone harmonic balance technique based on the Almost Periodic Fourier Transform (APFT). Contrary to approximate approaches, as matrix conversion techniques, no restrictions are considered regarding LO and RF pump powers. The mixer CAD tool allows a complete analysis of mixer circuits up to Thz frequencies taking into account both the external circuit and the Schottky diode structure.

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