Low-noise 140–170 GHz heterodyne receiver using quasiparticle tunnel junctions

Abstract
Laboratory tests have been made using single quasiparticle tunnel junctions as the nonlinear element for mixing in a heterodyne receiver. Double-sideband receiver noise temperatures of l00±10 K are typical at local oscillator frequencies of 140 to 155 GHz, and mixer conversion losses of less than 3.5 dB are obtained in this frequency range.