Asahi Kasei Microdevices/AKM AK1228

Overview

AK1228 from AsahiKASEI is a double-balanced RF mixer IC designed for up/down-conversion in 10–2000 MHz signal input and 10–1000 MHz output bands. It features differential open-drain outputs, single-ended RF input, low-power differential or single-ended LO drive, and bias-current optimization via external resistors. Used in marine radios and amateur radio transceivers requiring high linearity and low noise.

For engineers reviewing the AK1228 datasheet, AK1228 pinout, AK1228 application, or AK1228 equivalent, this page delivers verified specifications including conversion gain (4 dB typ), SSB noise figure (8.5 dB), IIP3 (+12 dBm), LO input range (−10 to +5 dBm), and 16-pin UQEN package with BIAS/SELECT control for current tuning.

Technical Context

The AK1228 implements a double-balanced Gilbert-cell mixer architecture with integrated LO buffer and power-down control. Its analog core supports both upconversion (e.g., 50 MHz IF → 450 MHz RF) and downconversion (e.g., 600 MHz RF → 50 MHz IF), with LO frequency selection governed by upper/lower sideband rules relative to signal input.

Current consumption (4.5–10.5 mA) and RF performance-including gain, NF, and IIP3-are actively tunable via two BIAS pins (BIAS1/BIAS2) and the BIAS SELECT digital input, enabling trade-off optimization across temperature (−40 to +85°C) and supply voltage (2.7–5.25 V).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AK1228 uses a 16-pin UQEN package (3 mm × 3 mm × 0.60 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad (to be grounded). Pin functions are validated per MS1535-E-02 datasheet Figure 2 and Table 1.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar RF mixer applications.

Compared with AK1224 and ADE-1L+, the AK1228 uniquely combines 10–2000 MHz bandwidth, programmable current, and integrated power-down-making it the only option for wideband, battery-aware, field-deployable radio designs.

Availability

AK1228 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for marine radios, amateur radio transceivers, disaster prevention wireless links, and PMR handhelds requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for AK1228 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

AsahiKASEI Microdevices Corporation is a Japanese semiconductor manufacturer specializing in high-performance analog and mixed-signal ICs for communications and industrial applications.

The AK1228 belongs to AsahiKASEI's RF mixer product line, engineered specifically for wideband, low-power, high-linearity wireless infrastructure and portable radio equipment where dynamic bias control and compact UQEN packaging are essential.

FAQ

What is the guaranteed SSB noise figure for AK1228?

The AK1228 guarantees an SSB noise figure of 8.5 dB across its full operating temperature range (−40 to +85°C) and supply voltage (2.7–5.25 V), measured at 600 MHz RF input, 50 MHz IF output, 0 dBm LO level, and 39 kΩ BIAS resistor. This value is specified in Table 4 of the MS1535-E-02 datasheet and applies to all AK1228 units regardless of date code or lot.

Can AK1228 operate with a single-ended LO input?

Yes, AK1228 supports single-ended LO drive: connect LO signal to LOINP (pin 3) and tie LOINN (pin 2) to VSS. While differential LO yields better NF and IIP3, the datasheet confirms single-ended operation is fully functional across −10 to +5 dBm LO power. The AK1228 internal LO buffer accommodates either configuration without external circuit changes.

How does the BIAS SELECT pin affect AK1228 operation?

The BIAS SELECT pin (pin 6) is a digital input that determines which bias terminal-BIAS1 (pin 7) or BIAS2 (pin 8)-is active for current-setting resistor connection. When BIAS SELECT = LOW, BIAS1 is enabled; when HIGH, BIAS2 is enabled. This allows independent optimization of two operating points (e.g., high-current RX mode vs. low-current standby) within a single AK1228 design.

What is the maximum allowable LO input power for AK1228?

The absolute maximum LO input power for AK1228 is +5 dBm, as defined in Table 2 (Absolute Maximum Ratings) of the MS1535-E-02 datasheet. Exceeding this risks permanent damage. For optimal linearity and reliability, operation between −5 and +3 dBm is recommended-especially at high RF input frequencies (>1 GHz), where lower LO power mitigates distortion per Figure 4 performance curves.

Does AK1228 require external matching networks on all ports?

Yes, AK1228 requires external matching on RFIN, LOIN, and OUTP/OUTN ports. RFIN needs a high-pass LC network (Figure 4); LOIN benefits from resistive or LC matching (Figure 5); OUTP/OUTN require either a 4:1 balun with center-tap power feed (Figure 6) or an LC network (Figure 7) to convert differential open-drain outputs to 50 Ω single-ended. These are mandatory per datasheet Application Information section.