Schottky diode-based mixers design and optimization at millimetre and submillimetre-wave bands

In this paper we present some design and optimization aspects for Schottky-based mixers at the millimetre and submillimetre-wave bands by using an in-house mixer CAD tool. This simulator takes into account both the external circuit and a physical model for the semiconductor device. For mixer analysis, proper time-frequency conversion techniques have been implemented, which combine good accuracy and low computational cost. This CAD tool allows the joint optimization of the Schottky diode and the external circuit. Another important advantage is the possibility to study and optimize the internal structure of the Schottky diode for optimum performance.