Analog Devices Inc. 104631-HMC361S8G

Overview

HMC361S8G from Analog Devices is a GaAs HBT MMIC divide-by-2 static frequency divider operating from DC (square-wave input) to 10 GHz with +5 V supply, 3 dBm typical output power at 6 GHz, -148 dBc/Hz SSB phase noise at 100 kHz offset, and 83 mA supply current - used in X-band PLL prescalers for satellite comms and fiber optic systems.

For engineers reviewing the HMC361S8G datasheet, HMC361S8G pinout, HMC361S8G application, or HMC361S8G equivalent, key selection criteria include input frequency range (DC–10 GHz), differential/singe-ended RF input support, SSB phase noise performance, 8-lead SOIC_N_EP package thermal design, and compatibility with +5 V single-supply PLL subsystems.

Technical Context

The HMC361S8G implements a static CML-based divide-by-2 architecture using InGaP GaAs HBT technology, enabling operation down to DC with square-wave inputs and up to 10 GHz with sine-wave inputs. It supports both single-ended (pin 5 active, pin 7 AC-grounded) and differential (pins 5 & 7 driven 180° out-of-phase) RF input modes.

Output is complementary: pin 1 and pin 3 deliver divided signals 180° out of phase, each capable of 3 dBm output at 6 GHz. The device features ultra-low additive phase noise (-148 dBc/Hz @ 100 kHz offset), 100 ps transition time, and requires DC blocking on all RF ports.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 8-lead SOIC_N_EP (narrow body, low stand-off, exposed paddle), JEDEC MS-012-BA compliant, thermal resistance 63 °C/W (junction-to-ground paddle).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with HMC362S8G and HMC433MS8G, the HMC361S8G uniquely balances DC-to-10 GHz operation, best-in-class phase noise, and SOIC_N_EP thermal performance - making it optimal for X-band satellite and fiber infrastructure where spectral purity and thermal reliability are prioritized over maximum bandwidth or division ratio.

Availability

HMC361S8G is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for satellite communication transceivers, fiber optic line cards, and point-to-point microwave radios requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and high-reliability RF signal chains.

Supply support for HMC361S8G 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 leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and RF ICs, serving precision instrumentation, communications, and industrial markets since 1965.

The HMC361S8G belongs to Analog Devices' Hittite Microwave MMIC product line, engineered specifically for broadband RF frequency synthesis and signal conditioning in demanding wireless infrastructure and defense applications.

FAQ

What is the minimum input frequency supported by the HMC361S8G?

The HMC361S8G supports DC input when driven with a square-wave signal, enabling use in low-frequency calibration and test applications. For sine-wave inputs, the minimum specified frequency is 0.2 GHz (200 MHz) at +25 °C, with operational margin extending to 0.5 GHz across full temperature range (-40 °C to +85 °C). This dual-mode capability makes the HMC361S8G uniquely flexible among GaAs dividers.

Does the HMC361S8G require external DC blocking capacitors?

Yes, the HMC361S8G requires DC blocking on all RF ports (pins 1, 3, 5, and 7) as stated in the datasheet. The RF inputs (pins 5 and 7) and outputs (pins 1 and 3) are not internally DC-coupled. Proper 50 Ω matching and DC blocking - typically using 100 pF 0402 capacitors per the 104631 evaluation board - are mandatory to prevent bias disruption and ensure specified RF performance.

Can the HMC361S8G operate with differential input signals?

Yes, the HMC361S8G supports true differential RF input via pins 5 and 7, which are designed to accept 180° out-of-phase signals. When used differentially, this configuration improves common-mode noise rejection and enhances input sensitivity. For single-ended operation, pin 7 must be AC-grounded using a capacitor and resistor network, as shown in the application schematic.

What is the thermal design requirement for the HMC361S8G package?

The HMC361S8G uses an SOIC_N_EP package with an exposed ground paddle that must be soldered to a thermally robust PCB ground plane. Its junction-to-ground thermal resistance is 63 °C/W, and continuous power dissipation is rated at 0.79 W at 85 °C ambient (derating 15.9 mW/°C above). At least six thermal vias under the paddle are recommended to maintain safe junction temperatures in high-density RF layouts.

How does the phase noise performance of the HMC361S8G impact PLL design?

The HMC361S8G's -148 dBc/Hz SSB phase noise at 100 kHz offset directly limits close-in phase noise in PLL-based synthesizers. Because phase noise degrades by 20log(N) after division, using the HMC361S8G as a prescaler minimizes added noise in the feedback path - especially critical in satellite modems where EVM and adjacent channel leakage ratio (ACLR) depend heavily on LO spectral purity.