[NLRS] Mixers and IF rigs

[goverby@charter.net]

I'm looking for someone who has experience with the TUF-1H mixer, or can read
a data sheet better than I can :-)

I'm trying to find out how much power should be going in to the device, and
how much power it can take before it lets out it's magic smoke.  The
minicircuits web page[1] is pretty obvious about the LO power (17dbm).  Under
"Notes" it lists "15db min 8.5 to 10GHz".  I have a hardcopy data sheet that
lists the Max. RF power 50 mW.  Does anyone know?

Also, if the device works on recieve, can I be reasonably certain that I
haven't fried it?

I'm using an FT-100 as an IF rig (on the 12M band).  With the HF power set to
"zero", I see a short spike upon key-up.  I've been warned about spikes by a
few people; is this a "transverter killing spike" that I should be worried
about?  Is anyone successfully using an FT-100 as an IF rig?

Thanks & 73
Glen, KC0IYT

[1] http://www.minicircuits.com/cgi-bin/spec?cat=mixer&model=TUF-1H&pix=b02.gif&bv=4