June 4, 2025
25–29 GHz Up/Down-Converter RFIC Simplifies Transceiver Design

mmTron announces the TMC178, an up/down-converter IC for satellite communications (Satcom) and fixed wireless access (FWA) systems operating in frequency bands from 25 to 29 GHz.

The TMC178 is a highly integrated RFIC that combines a balanced mixer with a frequency tripler, filter, and pre- and post-amplifiers in the LO path.

A block diagram of the TMC178 shows a mixer with RF, IF, and LO ports. Driving the LO port are an amplifier, x3 multipleri, bandpass filter, and second amplifier.

The mixer is balanced to achieve excellent isolation. The tripler in the LO path reduces the required LO input frequency to between 6 and 8 GHz, the amplifiers enable operation with only 0 dBm input LO drive, and the built-in filter eliminates unwanted harmonics.

The wide IF frequency range from 1 to 11 GHz and a single positive bias add to the utility. The RFIC’s performance is stable over temperature, supporting outdoor installations in all climates.

“The highly integrated TMC178 simplifies system design and is low cost, making it well-suited for commercial Satcom and FWA applications. It adds an important building block to mmTron’s portfolio of high linearity, high power, and high efficiency power amplifiers for mmWave systems.” — Seyed A. Tabatabaei, founder and CEO of mmTron

The TMC178 is available either as a bare die or in a low-cost 5 mm x 5 mm QFN package.

For performance information and preproduction samples, contact mmTron at contact@mmtron.com.