Asahi Kasei Microdevices/AKM AK1220

Overview

The AK1220 from Asahi Kasei Microdevices is a high-linearity passive down-conversion mixer IC with RF input (100–900 MHz), LO input (−5 to +5 dBm, 100–900 MHz), and differential open-drain IF output (20–100 MHz). It features selectable linearity–power trade-off via BIAS pin resistor (22 kΩ or 56 kΩ), single-ended 50 Ω RF interface, complementary 50 Ω LO inputs, and operates from 4.75–5.25 V. It is used in analog radio front-ends for PMR/LMR transceivers requiring high IIP3 and stable noise figure.

For engineers reviewing the AK1220 datasheet, AK1220 pinout, AK1220 application, or AK1220 equivalent, key selection considerations include its dual-power-mode linearity optimization (IIP3 up to +22 dBm at 17 mA), differential IF output architecture requiring external power feeding, 16-pin UQFN package (3 mm × 3 mm, 0.5 mm pitch), and compatibility with balun- or LC-based IF impedance matching networks.

Technical Context

The AK1220 implements a double-balanced Gilbert-cell mixer topology with integrated LO buffer and on-chip bias control. Its RF path accepts single-ended 50 Ω signals while LO ports require complementary drive; IF outputs are open-drain differential, necessitating external inductive power feeding and load termination.

Linearity and gain are dynamically adjustable via a single external resistor on the BIAS pin-enabling discrete selection between two operating points: 17 mA / +22 dBm IIP3 / 1 dB conversion gain or 9 mA / +11 dBm IIP3 / 0.5 dB gain. Performance remains stable across −40°C to +85°C and supply voltages from 4.75 V to 5.25 V.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AK1220 uses a 16-pin UQFN package (3.0 mm × 3.0 mm × 0.60 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad. Pin 1 is marked by a dot; NC pins should be grounded per recommendation but do not affect electrical performance if left floating.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar down-conversion mixer applications.

Compared with AK1222 and AK1224, the AK1220 uniquely delivers the highest IIP3 (+22 dBm) within the AK12xx family while retaining full 100–900 MHz bandwidth and UQFN compatibility-making it optimal for interference-heavy multi-channel infrastructure and professional-grade handhelds.

Availability

The AK1220 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for two-way radios (PMR/LMR), disaster prevention communication systems, marine VHF radios, and amateur radio transceivers requiring stable component supply, consistent parametric performance, and long-term manufacturability.

Supply support for AK1220 includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Asahi Kasei Microdevices Corporation (AKM) is a Japanese semiconductor company specializing in mixed-signal ICs for audio, sensor, and RF applications, with emphasis on high-performance analog front-ends and low-noise signal conditioning.

The AK1220 belongs to AKM's high-linearity RF mixer product line, designed specifically for analog receiver front-ends in professional land-mobile radio, maritime, and emergency communications equipment demanding robust intermodulation immunity.

FAQ

What is the recommended external resistor value for the BIAS pin to achieve maximum IIP3 in the AK1220?

The AK1220 achieves its maximum IIP3 of +22 dBm when a 22 kΩ resistor is connected between the BIAS pin and ground, drawing 17 mA total supply current. This configuration also yields 1 dB conversion gain and 10.5 dB SSB noise figure. The resistor tolerance should be ≤5% to maintain specification compliance across temperature and voltage variations.

How is power delivered to the differential IF outputs of the AK1220?

The AK1220 IFOUTP and IFOUTN pins are open-drain outputs and require external DC power feeding via inductors-typically 1000–2200 nH-connected between VDD and each IF pin. A 2.2 kΩ load resistor is placed between IFOUTP and IFOUTN to set the differential output impedance. Without this inductive power feed, no IF signal is generated.

Does the AK1220 require external baluns for RF or IF interfacing?

The AK1220 does not require baluns for RF input (single-ended 50 Ω) but supports both balun- and LC-based IF output conversion. Its differential IF outputs can be converted to single-ended using either a wideband balun (e.g., Mini-Circuits ADT4-6T+) or an LC network with calculated L/C values-both methods are validated in the AK1220 evaluation board schematics.

What is the absolute maximum RF input power rating for the AK1220?

The AK1220 has an absolute maximum RF input power rating of +12 dBm, as specified in Table 2 of the MS1165-E-03 datasheet. Exceeding this level may cause permanent damage. For reliable operation, RF input power should remain ≤0 dBm under normal conditions, especially when operating in high-IIP3 mode with 22 kΩ BIAS resistor.

Can the AK1220 be used in up-conversion applications?

No-the AK1220 is designed exclusively for down-conversion mixing (RF → IF). Its internal architecture, biasing scheme, and characterization data (e.g., IIP3, NF, conversion gain) are specified only for down-conversion operation. For up-conversion, AKM recommends the AK1228, which supports 10 MHz–2 GHz bidirectional mixing with 3 V supply.