Analog Devices Inc. 106137-HMC370LP4

Overview

HMC370LP4 from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a GaAs HBT MMIC active x4 frequency multiplier operating with 3.6–4.1 GHz input to deliver 14.4–16.4 GHz output, delivering 0 dBm typical output power at +5V/55 mA, >22 dBc sub-harmonic suppression, and −140 dBc/Hz SSB phase noise at 100 kHz offset-ideal for LO multiplier chains in point-to-point radios and VSAT systems.

For engineers reviewing the HMC370LP4 datasheet, HMC370LP4 pinout, HMC370LP4 application, or HMC370LP4 equivalent, key selection criteria include its fixed x4 multiplication ratio, stable output power vs. temperature/voltage, low additive phase noise, and 4×4 mm leadless SMT package requiring RF ground connection on all designated pins.

Technical Context

The HMC370LP4 implements a monolithic GaAs HBT-based active multiplier architecture with integrated bias network and on-chip matching, enabling direct 4× harmonic generation without external tuning components. Its input operates at L-band (3.6–4.1 GHz), while output spans Ku-band (14.4–16.4 GHz), supporting fixed-ratio local oscillator synthesis.

It features DC-coupled Vcc (Pin 19), AC-coupled RFOUT (Pin 16), and RFIN (Pin 3) requiring external DC blocking only if driven with DC voltage. All 24 leads-including 16 N/C pins tied to ground externally-are designed for RF/DC grounding per layout guidelines to maintain return loss and thermal performance.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 24-lead 4×4 mm leadless surface-mount (LCC) with exposed ground paddle; RoHS-compliant version marked HMC370LP4E uses matte Sn finish (MSL1, 260°C peak reflow).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with HMC370LP4, HMC575LP3 offers wider output bandwidth and higher gain but lacks identical input/output alignment; HMC1094LP3E improves phase noise by 2 dB but sacrifices input power flexibility-making HMC370LP4 optimal for cost-sensitive, production-ready Ku-band radios with moderate drive variation.

Availability

HMC370LP4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for point-to-point radios, VSAT terminals, and fiber optic transceivers requiring stable component supply, consistent RF performance across temperature, and lead-free or Sn/Pb assembly compatibility.

Supply support for HMC370LP4 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 acquired Hittite Microwave in 2014, integrating its high-frequency RF IC portfolio into ADI's communications and defense solutions.

The HMC370LP4 belongs to Hittite's legacy GaAs MMIC frequency multiplier family, engineered specifically for compact, high-reliability Ku-band LO generation in wireless infrastructure and aerospace systems.

FAQ

What is the exact input frequency range supported by the HMC370LP4?

The HMC370LP4 supports an input frequency range of 3.6 GHz to 4.1 GHz, as specified in its electrical characteristics table. This range is validated across temperature and supply voltage variations, and it corresponds precisely to the 4× multiplication that yields the 14.4–16.4 GHz output band. Operation outside this band results in degraded output power and harmonic suppression.

Does the HMC370LP4 require external DC blocking on the RF input or output?

The HMC370LP4 requires external DC blocking only on the RFIN pin (Pin 3) if the driving source applies DC voltage; the RFOUT pin (Pin 16) is internally AC-coupled and needs no external DC block. The datasheet explicitly states that no external DC blocking is necessary on RFOUT, simplifying interface design in most LO chain implementations.

What is the recommended PCB grounding strategy for the HMC370LP4?

All ground leads (Pins 4 and 15), the exposed ground paddle, and the 16 N/C pins (1, 2, 5–14, 17, 18, 20–24) must be soldered to the PCB's RF/DC ground plane. Hittite's application note specifies a land pattern with multiple thermal vias under the paddle and recommends grounding each N/C pad individually to minimize inductance and ensure thermal reliability.

Can the HMC370LP4 operate with supply voltages other than +5V?

Yes-the HMC370LP4 is rated for operation from +4.5V to +5.5V. Electrical specifications show output power varies by less than ±0.3 dB across this range at fixed input drive, and supply current increases only from 54 mA to 57 mA. This tolerance supports systems with regulated but non-ideal 5V rails.

Is the HMC370LP4 pin-compatible with the HMC370LP4E variant?

Yes-the HMC370LP4 and HMC370LP4E share identical pinout, footprint, and electrical specifications; the only differences are RoHS compliance (matte Sn finish vs. Sn/Pb), MSL rating (260°C vs. 235°C peak reflow), and package marking. Both variants mount identically and perform interchangeably in production.