products:

Function:
A receiver detects an RF signal, and creates a useful output from it. Most RF receivers are superheterodyne receivers, consisting of an LNA, a downconverting mixer and some IF circuitry. Some RF circuits such as RF/ID tags use homodyne receivers, consisting only of a detector diode that in the presence of a strong enough RF field produces a voltage output.

Schematic Symbol:

Key Specifications

Sensitivity

A measure of how strong a signal is needed for the receiver to successfully detect and process it

Dynamic range

The range of signals over which the receiver operates. The minimum signal is set by the Noise Figure of the receiver; the maximum signal is set by the input intercept point of the receiver.

Integrated Circuits:

HPMX-5001 / HPMX 5002 chipset includes the receiver function.

See also LNAs and Detectors