I am a newbie in RF circuit, and I am required to design a double balanced mixer for research. The RF frequency is about 17 GHz.
The question is is how to measure the mixer. Since all signals (RF, LO, IF) are differential, should I
1. convert both the input signals (RF, LO) from unbalanced (single ended) ones to balanced (differential) ones by balun, and convert the output IF signal to unbalanced one; or
2. using differential signal generator (I don't know if there exist this stuff), and connect one of the output (IF) by a proper impedance, and measure the other.
Also, I am thinking of the possibility of testing the mixer on wafer. Does it feasible? And does it require G-S-S-G probes instead of general G-S-G ones?
The questions may be basic, but It does trouble me. Any advice and comment will be appreciated.