Today I continued updating the downconverter for X-band deep space probes. Having the local oscillator selected, today was the mixer selection. Up today I was using a RHG mixer purchased in 2006, but from the 2006 up today I purchased another units, but not tested up today.

RF Mixer testing, test setup

After test the 5 units, looks that I have a unit perfect for 8.4 GHz 🙂 it is a Aertech 8500 this mixer look more of 4 dB better that the RHG mixer used up today.

RF Mixer comparation

Now only need check the low noise amplifier to see the performance and decide if I build a new one.  I’m very anxious to receive space probes again!