RF Vs IF
RF (Radio Frequency) and IF (Intermediate Frequency) are terms commonly used in the context of radio communication
and signal processing, especially in the design of radio receivers. Let us understand difference between RF and IF and
how one frequency is converted to the other and vice versa.
Both the terms are used in wireless system, IF to RF and RF to IF conversion can be done using a device called RF
mixer. The same conversion can be achieved by way of single conversion or dual conversion.
Radio Frequency (RF):
➨Definition : RF refers to the range of electromagnetic frequencies associated with radio wave propagation. This range
typically spans from a few kilohertz (kHz) to several gigahertz (GHz).
➨Purpose : In the context of radio communication, RF is used to transmit and receive signals wirelessly. RF signals are
used for various purposes, including broadcasting, wireless communication, radar systems, and more.
Intermediate Frequency (IF):
➨Definition : IF is an intermediate frequency used in the signal processing chain of a radio receiver. It is an intentionally
chosen frequency that is different from both the RF and the audio frequencies.
➨Purpose : The use of IF in a radio receiver provides several advantages. It helps to improve selectivity, sensitivity, and
ease of amplification of the incoming signal. The process of converting the RF signal to a lower IF simplifies the design of
the receiver, making it more manageable and cost-effective.
Following table mentions intermediate frequencies(IF) typically used for different applications such as RF test
Equipments, Radar, Satellite equipments, microwave equipments, AM/FM radio, television(TV) etc.
Table-1 IF values for different applications
Up Converter And Down Converter Using RF Mixer
IF to RF conversion is achieved using a RF device called Up converter ("UC"). Similarly RF to IF conversion is achieved
using RF device called Down converter ("DC").
Heterodyne and homodyne receiver architectures are used to convert modulated RF signal to IF signal. Superheterodyne
uses 10.7MHz as first IF and 470KHz as second IF. Refer Receiver Architectures >>
The figure-2 depicts use of RF mixer for up/down conversion. Refer Tutorial >> on RF mixer.
RF To IF Conversion
Following are the signal processing steps involved at receiver for RF to IF conversion and voice/data recovery.
1. The incoming RF signal is mixed with a local oscillator (LO) frequency to produce the IF signal. This process is also
known as downconversion.
2. The IF signal is then processed through filters and amplifiers to enhance the desired signal and reject unwanted
frequencies.
3. The final stage involves demodulating the IF signal to recover the original audio or data signal.
IF To RF Conversion
Following are the steps involved at transmitter for IF to RF conversion for transmission of voice/data into the air using
antenna.
1. Incoming modulated IF from modem is mixed with a LO to produce RF signal. This process is also known as
upconversion.
2. RF signal is the processed through filters (BPF) and amplifiers to enhance desired signal and reject unwanted
frequencies.
3. The amplified RF signal is passed through power amplifier (PA) before transmission into the air using RF antenna.
The circuit consists of discrete rf components such as RF mixers, rf filters, rf isolators, chip resistors and capacitors, MMICs etc.
Difference Between RF And IF
Conclusion : In summary, RF refers to the broader range of frequencies used in radio communication, while IF is a
specific frequency intentionally chosen within the receiver's signal processing chain to enhance performance and simplify
the overall design. The use of IF allows for effective manipulation and processing of signals before the final demodulation
stage. Refer RF Frequency Converter Design>> and RF Transceiver Design And Development>> for more information.
