Analog Devices Inc. 103313-HMC189AMS8

Overview

HMC189AMS8 from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a GaAs MMIC passive frequency doubler in an 8-lead MSOP package, operating with 2–4 GHz input and delivering 4–8 GHz output. It delivers 13 dB typical conversion loss at +13 dBm drive, provides ≥33 dB fundamental and harmonic isolation, and is DC-coupled on both RF ports for 50 Ω impedance matching.

For engineers reviewing the HMC189AMS8 datasheet, HMC189AMS8 pinout, HMC189AMS8 application, or HMC189AMS8 equivalent, key selection criteria include input drive range (+10 to +15 dBm), thermal operating range (−40°C to +85°C), MSL1 rating, and RF port return loss performance across 2–4 GHz input and 4–8 GHz output bands.

Technical Context

This passive doubler uses Schottky diode/balun architecture derived from Hittite's MMIC mixer technology, enabling broadband operation without active biasing or additive phase noise contribution. It requires no DC power supply and relies entirely on nonlinear diode conduction for second-harmonic generation.

Input and output ports are DC-coupled and internally matched to 50 Ω across full bandwidths; all ground pins (3, 6) and N/C pins (1, 4, 5, 8) must be externally grounded per RF layout best practices. Absolute maximum input drive is +27 dBm, with ESD sensitivity rated Class 1B (HBM).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 8-lead MSOP (Mini Small Outline Package), low-stress injection-molded plastic, MSL1, Sn/Pb lead finish, 235 °C max reflow peak. Dimensions per Hittite outline drawing; all ground leads require direct soldering to PCB RF ground plane.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar passive frequency doubler applications.

Compared with HMC189AMS8, HMC575LP3E extends low-frequency reach at the cost of higher loss and larger footprint, while QM11036 offers marginally improved efficiency in a RoHS-compliant DFN-but neither matches the HMC189AMS8's balanced 2–4 GHz coverage, proven MSOP grounding layout, and documented 33 dB Fo isolation at +13 dBm.

Availability

HMC189AMS8 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wireless local loop infrastructure, point-to-point microwave radios, and RF test instrumentation requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and drive-level ranges.

Supply support for HMC189AMS8 includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Analog Devices, Inc. is a global semiconductor leader specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and RF technologies for precision signal processing and connectivity.

The HMC189AMS8 belongs to Hittite's legacy GaAs MMIC passive multiplier family, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, high-volume RF systems needing clean, low-noise frequency doubling without DC bias complexity.

FAQ

What is the recommended input drive level for optimal performance of the HMC189AMS8?

The HMC189AMS8 achieves minimum conversion loss (13 dB typ.) and highest harmonic isolation (≥33 dB) at +13 dBm input drive. Operation between +10 dBm and +15 dBm is supported, but below +10 dBm increases loss and above +15 dBm risks compression or reliability degradation. The absolute maximum rating is +27 dBm, though sustained operation above +15 dBm is not characterized.

Does the HMC189AMS8 require DC bias or external power to operate?

No, the HMC189AMS8 is a fully passive device based on GaAs Schottky diodes and balun structures. It requires no DC bias voltage or current supply. All functionality arises from nonlinear RF signal interaction-making it ideal for zero-power stages in battery-operated or fail-safe RF paths where HMC189AMS8 introduces no added phase noise or power dependency.

What is the thermal operating range specified for the HMC189AMS8?

The HMC189AMS8 is characterized and qualified for continuous operation from −40°C to +85°C ambient temperature. Performance data-including conversion loss, isolation, and return loss-is guaranteed across this range at +13 dBm drive. The device's plastic MSOP package and GaAs die construction enable stable RF behavior without derating under these conditions, supporting HMC189AMS8 deployment in uncontrolled outdoor enclosures and industrial RF modules.

How should the N/C pins (1, 4, 5, 8) of the HMC189AMS8 be handled on the PCB?

Although pins 1, 4, 5, and 8 are internally not connected, the HMC189AMS8 datasheet explicitly states that all published RF measurements were taken with these pins externally grounded to the PCB RF ground plane. Leaving them floating may degrade isolation and return loss. Therefore, for production designs using HMC189AMS8, these pins must be soldered to ground via short, low-inductance traces-consistent with the evaluation board layout and RF best practices.

Is the HMC189AMS8 compatible with lead-free reflow processes?

The standard HMC189AMS8 variant features Sn/Pb lead finish and is rated for MSL1 with a 235 °C peak reflow temperature. For RoHS-compliant assembly, the HMC189AMS8E version uses 100% matte tin and supports 260 °C peak reflow. Both variants are MSL1-rated, but only HMC189AMS8E is qualified for Pb-free processes. When specifying HMC189AMS8 for new designs, confirm whether Sn/Pb or matte Sn finish aligns with your manufacturing flow.