Our project objective was to evaluate a new circuit topology to explore if it could be integrated into an existing superheterodyne receiver chain, making a smaller and simpler RF front-end. A traditional superheterodyne receiver was built and measured so we could easily compare and contrast characteristics between the two models. Using the same parameters, we evaluated the new wide-band track-and-hold amplifier and compared the two models. Our testing and research has shown that while the device does work, the following significant problems must be overcome for the track-and-hold amplifier to be implemented in the superheterodyne chain: rotating IF frequency, poor linearity, instability at integer multiples of the clock, and precise phase locking.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• DiChiara, Joseph William
• DeZulueta, Julian Alexander

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-121012-102852

Advisor

• Ludwig, Reinhold
• Makarov, Sergey N.

Year

• 2012

Center

• MITRE-Bedford, Massachusetts Project Center - MQP

Sponsor

• John Putnam

Date created

• 2012-12-10

Location

• Worcester

Resource type

• Major Qualifying Project

Major

• Electrical & Computer Engineering

Rights statement

• In Copyright