Abstract: A satellite is configured for use in space so as to receive RF signals, convert them to a different frequency range, and retransmit the converted RF signals. The satellite comprises a payload area supporting a motherboard structure with a plurality of frequency converters supported on it. The frequency converters are each connected with an antenna system of the satellite so that each of them receives a respective RF input signal. A local oscillator source supported on said motherboard structure generates a local oscillator signal, and a motherboard in the motherboard structure receives the local oscillator signal and transmits it through the motherboard to each of the frequency converters. The frequency converters each convert the respective RF input signal to a respective RF output signal using the local oscillator signal and transmit the RF output signal to the antenna system so as to be transmitted wirelessly.

Abstract: A satellite is configured for use in space so as to receive RF signals, convert them to a different frequency range, and retransmit the converted RF signals. The satellite comprises a payload area supporting a motherboard structure with a plurality of frequency converters supported on it. The frequency converters are each connected with an antenna system of the satellite so that each of them receives a respective RF input signal. A local oscillator source supported on said motherboard structure generates a local oscillator signal, and a motherboard in the motherboard structure receives the local oscillator signal and transmits it through the motherboard to each of the frequency converters. The frequency converters each convert the respective RF input signal to a respective RF output signal using the local oscillator signal and transmit the RF output signal to the antenna system so as to be transmitted wirelessly.

Abstract: A thin film circuit, particularly desirable for satellite communications, mixes RF and an LO giga-hertz-range input signals to yield an IF signal by splitting the LO and RF signals into two, with a 180 degree phase shift introduced into one of the resulting signals. The LO and RF signals are then each mixed in parallel mixers. The outputs of the mixers have the IF signal with spurious (spur) signals in frequencies that are multiples of the frequencies of the RF or LO signals. The outputs are mixed together so that some of the spur signals cancel each other out and the IF signals are added in phase.