Analog Devices Inc. 106582-HMC363G8

Overview

HMC363G8 from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a GaAs HBT MMIC static frequency divider operating DC–12 GHz with divide-by-8 functionality, +5 V single supply, 4 dBm output power, and ultra-low SSB phase noise of –153 dBc/Hz at 100 kHz offset. It serves as a prescaler in high-frequency PLL systems for point-to-point radios and test equipment.

For engineers reviewing the HMC363G8 datasheet, HMC363G8 pinout, HMC363G8 application, or HMC363G8 equivalent, key selection criteria include input sensitivity window (–15 to +10 dBm across 1–12 GHz), differential input capability, hermetic 8-lead SMT package, and operation over –40°C to +85°C.

Technical Context

The HMC363G8 implements a static CMOS-compatible divider core using InGaP GaAs HBT technology, enabling DC-coupled square-wave input operation and broadband sine-wave support from 200 MHz to 12 GHz. Its differential input architecture (pins 1 and 3) supports both single-ended and balanced drive modes, with internal termination optimized for 50 Ω systems.

Output is complementary (pins 5 and 7), delivering 882 MHz at 4 dBm with 100 ps transition time when driven at 12 GHz input. The device draws 90 mA from a +5 V ±0.25 V supply and features reverse isolation >55 dB with harmonic suppression exceeding 20 dBc up to 3rd order.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 8-lead hermetic glass/metal surface-mount package with exposed ground paddle; alumina-loaded borosilicate glass dielectric; Kovar™ base and cover; electrolytic gold plating (≥50 µin) over nickel.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with HMC363G8, HMC433 offers higher output frequency but less division ratio headroom, while ADF4002 adds full PLL control at the cost of increased component count and design effort - HMC363G8 remains optimal for fixed-ratio, low-noise, drop-in prescaling where simplicity and phase integrity are critical.

Availability

HMC363G8 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for point-to-point radios, VSAT terminals, and test equipment requiring stable component supply, hermetic reliability, and guaranteed phase noise performance across temperature.

Supply support for HMC363G8 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 and integrates its high-frequency RF MMIC portfolio into precision analog and RF solutions for communications and defense markets.

The HMC363G8 belongs to the Hittite legacy GaAs HBT MMIC frequency divider family, engineered specifically for low-phase-noise prescaling in X-band PLLs used in mission-critical wireless infrastructure and aerospace systems.

FAQ

What is the minimum input frequency supported by the HMC363G8?

The HMC363G8 supports DC input for square-wave signals, enabling direct connection to digital clock sources. For sine-wave inputs, the minimum usable frequency is 200 MHz (0.2 GHz) at +25°C, with sensitivity degrading slightly at temperature extremes. This makes the HMC363G8 suitable for both digital clock conditioning and RF prescaling applications across its full 12 GHz bandwidth.

Does the HMC363G8 require external biasing components?

No - the HMC363G8 operates from a single +5 V ±0.25 V supply applied to pin 8 and requires no external bias networks. However, per the evaluation board layout, local decoupling with a 100 pF ceramic capacitor (0402) and 10 μF tantalum capacitor is mandatory to suppress supply noise and ensure stable RF performance. Ground pins (4 and paddle) must be solidly connected to PCB ground with multiple vias.

Can the HMC363G8 be used in differential input mode?

Yes - the HMC363G8 supports true differential RF input via pins 1 (IN) and 3 (IN, 180° out-of-phase). When used differentially, both inputs must be driven with equal amplitude and opposite phase; pin 3 is AC-grounded in single-ended mode. Differential operation improves common-mode noise rejection and reduces spurious feedthrough compared to single-ended drive.

What is the thermal resistance and maximum junction temperature of the HMC363G8?

The HMC363G8 has a junction-to-ground-paddle thermal resistance of 82°C/W. With a continuous power dissipation limit of 609 mW at +85°C case temperature (derated 12.2 mW/°C above that), the absolute maximum channel temperature is 135°C. Proper PCB thermal design - including soldering the exposed paddle and using ≥6 thermal vias - is essential to maintain reliability under full RF load.

Is the HMC363G8 pin-compatible with other Hittite divide-by-8 MMICs like the HMC363LP4E?

No - the HMC363G8 uses an 8-lead hermetic glass/metal package with specific pin assignments (e.g., pins 2 and 6 are NC), whereas the HMC363LP4E is a 4-lead plastic SMT package with different pinout, thermal characteristics, and environmental rating. They share functional equivalence but are not mechanically or electrically interchangeable without PCB redesign.