Hi,

I've read papers that use PIN diode in switch design, and Schottky diodes for mixer design.

The only big different between Schottky and PIN diode is the reverse recovery time. PIN didoes take time to switch ON-OFF. But in some process, PIN diode switching speed could be in nanoseconds, which is pretty fast. Other parameters should be similar such as Rs, Ct...

So my question is that why don't designers use Schottky diodes for switch design and PIN didoes for mixer design? One thing I can think of is the power handling...

Is there a specific switching time required for mixer operations? I am really confused..

Please help. Thanks.

 

https://forum.allaboutcircuits.com/threads/diodes-for-mixer-design.144958/#post-1231557

As you can see the intrinsic layer gives PIN diodes a unique charismatic similar to switchable inductance that you can't get from a normal or Schottky diode.