Maxim Integrated Products’ MAX2120 is a low cost, zero-IF, direct-conversion tuner for satellite TV. This tuner receives QPSK signals in the 925 MHz to 2150 MHz range and downconverts them to baseband for demodulation. Its low 8.0 dB noise figure eliminates the need for an external LNA, while its VCO auto-tuner function ensures ease of use. The MAX2120 is designed for DVB-S and free-to-air applications in which low cost and ease of use are key requirements.

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The MAX2120 operates from a single 3.3 V supply and consumes only 330 mW. It is designed to function using a low-cost 4 MHz crystal, but an internal reference divider allows the user to select any crystal in the 4 MHz to 8 MHz range.

Fully specified over the range of 0 °C to +70 °C commercial temperature range, the MAX2120 is available in a 5 mm x 5 mm, 28-pin TQFN package. Prices start at $3.50 in 1000 and up quantities. Evaluation kits and reference designs are available.