A frequency translating device (FTD) includes at least one mixer diode
connected to down-convert a radio frequency (RF) to an intermediate
frequency (IF) and to up-convert an IF to an RF and a source of direct
current (DC) bias that is connected to the mixer diode. The source of DC
bias provides DC bias to the mixer diode that moves the voltage applied
to the mixer diode closer to the threshold voltage of the mixer diode.
The mixer diode is turned on in response to the DC bias and a local
oscillator (LO) drive. Because DC bias is applied to the mixer diode, the
peak to peak voltage range of the LO drive can be reduced, thereby
reducing the voltage-dependent capacitance of the mixer diode, causing
the FTD to exhibit improved reciprocity. The FTD can be used in a
three-pair measurement system to determine the conversion response of
another FTD.