Maybe you are not so familiar with the term MMIC, one of the components, including new electronic technology, even to me who has always relied on components such as transistors and ICs.
MMIC stands for Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuits, this component is actually designed for wave microwave but do not be mistaken, because in fact MMIC can be used from the frequency range DC to 3 or 4 GHz frequency. so MMIC suitable to amplify radio signals to track HF, VHF, UHF, SHF, microwave.
what MMIC components? please refer to the discussion below ---> Know the electronics components: MMIC
At first the idea of using MMIC originated from UHF TV reception at home is not good, I try to use a booster amplifier that is sold but no change, I try with UHF transistor c3355 but also does not work, then I tried to find information via Google and many I encountered the use of MMIC components as a preamplifier or receiver antenna signal amplifier (receiver) in wideband. users also vary, from amateur radio communications, SATCOM (satellite), wideband receiver (scanner), TV VHF / UHF, HF radio, microwave. so this type preamplifier is suitable for a variety of devices including the SDR (software defined radio).
MMIC is fairly well known MAR-made Mini-Circuits series, unfortunately I see on Ebay are quite expensive. for MMIC's why I look for other alternatives that are more affordable, I ended up ordering MMIC RFMD Sirenza SGA-3486Z DC-5000MHz SiGe on Ebay. the price is quite cheap only $ 1 per component.
while waiting for the goods to be sent, usually Ebay shipment until approximately one month's time, so I made the PCB first and prepare the other components. please see the circuit schematic and PCB suggested the following:
(Click image to enlarge)
some of the features contained in this MMIC:
High Gain: 18.0dB at 1950MHz, Cascadable 50Ω can be configured, Operates from Single Supply
Low Thermal Resistance Package
Applications: PA Driver Amplifier, Cellular, PCS, GSM, UMTS, IF Amplifier, Wireless Data, Satellite.
of the trials that I do, I choose 5 Volt power supply of the source 5 Volt USB charger used to charge gadgets and turns this series still needs reinforcement plus gain control in the form of VR potensio so that no overloading gain. My other components adjusting its value according to the frequency I wanted to use (UHF TV):
(this image I took from my personal blog: XPandro-id.blogspot.com)
this posting is continued to part 2 Results [DIY] UHF TV antenna preamplifier with MMIC, you can read it with click HERE.