Frequency conversion and noise in millimeter-wave transit-time devices

A theoretical study of frequency conversion and noise in millimeter wave transit time devices is made. In particular the performance of BARITT devices as mixers and detectors in the 30- to 100-GHz range is studied. Additionally, some potential limitations in the basic model of a transit time device are also investigated. The performance of BARITT mixers is based on a mitrix formulation of frequency conversion and noise in a transit time device. This matrix formulation is developed by extending conventional Schottky barrier mixer models. Additionally, various burnout mechanisms and video detection are also considered. The BARITT is found to be a much more durable and burnout resistant device than the Schottky barrier diode. The results obtained here indicate that it will probably be competitive with Schottky barrier diodes in low noise video detection and mixing applications. However, the BARITT device may be very useful in applications where high burnout capability and reasonable sensitivity are needed.