Analog Devices Inc. 107006-HMC470LP3

Overview

HMC470LP3 from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a GaAs MMIC 5-bit digital attenuator with 1 dB LSB steps, DC–3 GHz bandwidth, ±0.3 dB typical step error, +5 V single supply, and 16-lead 3×3 mm SMT package - used for precision RF gain control in UMTS infrastructure and microwave radio front-ends.

For engineers reviewing the HMC470LP3 datasheet, HMC470LP3 pinout, HMC470LP3 application, or HMC470LP3 equivalent, key selection criteria include insertion loss (<1.7 dB), attenuation accuracy across frequency bands, TTL/CMOS-compatible 5-bit control interface, IIP3 (+45 dBm), and required external AC-ground capacitors for DC-coupled operation.

Technical Context

The HMC470LP3 implements a broadband GaAs MMIC architecture with five independent positive-control bits (V1–V5), each driving a discrete attenuation cell with binary-weighted values (1/2/4/8/16 dB). It uses off-chip AC-ground capacitors (ACG1–ACG6 pins) to enable near-DC operation while maintaining 50 Ω RF port matching at RF1 and RF2.

Control logic is TTL/CMOS compatible with 0/+5 V thresholds; switching speed is 160 ns rise/fall and 180 ns ON/OFF delay. Biasing requires only +5 V (±10%) at 4.2 mA typical, with thermal resistance of 130 °C/W and operating temperature range of –40 to +85 °C.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 16-lead 3×3 mm leadless surface-mount (exposed paddle), RoHS-compliant option available as HMC470LP3E. Thermal pad must be soldered to PCB RF ground.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar digital RF attenuator applications.

Compared with HMC470LP3, HMC624LP4E offers wider bandwidth and finer resolution but demands dual-rail biasing and larger layout area, while PE43703 trades parallel control simplicity for SPI programmability and reduced supply voltage - both require redesign of control interface and power delivery.

Availability

HMC470LP3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for UMTS infrastructure, microwave radio transceivers, and RF test equipment requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for HMC470LP3 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 IC portfolio into precision signal chain solutions for communications and instrumentation.

The HMC470LP3 belongs to Hittite's legacy GaAs MMIC digital attenuator family, engineered for broadband RF gain control in wireless infrastructure and test systems where linearity, step accuracy, and DC coupling are critical.

FAQ

What is the minimum operating frequency of the HMC470LP3?

The HMC470LP3 supports true DC-coupled operation down to 0 Hz, enabled by external AC-ground capacitors (ACG1–ACG6) tied to the RF path. The lowest usable frequency depends on capacitor selection - e.g., 1000 pF supports ~160 kHz lower cutoff - and PCB layout grounding integrity.

Does the HMC470LP3 require external blocking capacitors on RF1 and RF2?

Yes, the HMC470LP3 requires external DC-blocking capacitors on both RF1 and RF2 pins because its RF ports are DC-coupled and internally matched to 50 Ω. Capacitor value must be selected based on the lowest operating frequency to avoid signal degradation and ensure impedance stability.

What is the maximum RF input power rating for the HMC470LP3?

The HMC470LP3 has an absolute maximum RF input power rating of +27 dBm at +85 °C. At room temperature, it sustains +20 dBm for 0.1 dB compression and delivers +45 dBm IIP3 in reference attenuation states, confirming robust linearity within safe operating limits.

Can the HMC470LP3 operate from a +3.3 V supply instead of +5 V?

No, the HMC470LP3 is specified only for +5 V ±10% operation (4.5–5.5 V). Its internal GaAs FET biasing and TTL/CMOS-compatible control thresholds are optimized for this range; operation at +3.3 V will result in undefined attenuation states and potential functional failure.

How many external capacitors are required for proper operation of the HMC470LP3?

Six external capacitors are required: one each for ACG1 through ACG6 (pins 4–9). These provide AC grounding for internal RF nodes and enable stable DC-coupled performance. Placement must be as close as possible to the respective pins, and values depend on the lowest operating frequency - typical evaluation uses 330 pF or 1000 pF.