Analog Devices Inc. 108402-HMC490LP5

Overview

HMC490LP5 from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a GaAs pHEMT MMIC low-noise amplifier optimized for 12–16 GHz RF receive and transmit chains. It delivers 23 dB small-signal gain, 2.5 dB noise figure, +25 dBm P1dB output power, +34 dBm output IP3, and operates from a single +5 V supply drawing 200 mA - ideal for high-linearity millimeter-wave point-to-point radio front-ends.

For engineers reviewing the HMC490LP5 datasheet, HMC490LP5 pinout, HMC490LP5 application, or HMC490LP5 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 50 Ω matched I/O, 32-pin 5×5 mm QFN package with integrated ground paddle, temperature-stable gain (0.04 dB/°C), and bias-adjustable Vgg control for precise current setting in ruggedized RF systems.

Technical Context

The HMC490LP5 employs a monolithic GaAs pHEMT process to achieve simultaneous low noise and high linearity across Ku-band. Its three-stage amplifier architecture integrates on-chip matching networks and DC blocking capacitors at RFIN and RFOUT, enabling direct 50 Ω system integration without external matching.

Bias is controlled via a single gate voltage (Vgg) pin, allowing fine-tuning of drain current (Idd) between 140–208 mA over +3.0 to +5.5 V supply range. Thermal design relies on soldering all ground leads and the exposed paddle to PCB ground, leveraging 56 °C/W channel-to-ground thermal resistance for operation up to +85 °C ambient.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 32-lead, leadless 5×5 mm QFN with exposed copper thermal paddle (MSL1, Sn/Pb finish). Requires full-solder connection of ground leads (pins 3,5,20,22) and paddle to PCB RF ground plane per Hittite land pattern guidelines.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar low-noise, high-linearity Ku-band amplifier applications.

Compared with QPL9547 and MAAL-011078, the HMC490LP5 offers superior Ku-band gain flatness, adjustable gate bias for production current trimming, and higher output power - making it optimal for demanding military and carrier-grade microwave radios where margin and stability are critical.

Availability

HMC490LP5 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for point-to-point radios, VSAT terminals, and military EW receivers requiring stable component supply, long-term obsolescence management, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for HMC490LP5 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 continues to support its high-frequency RF portfolio. The company specializes in precision analog, RF, and mixed-signal ICs for communications, defense, and instrumentation.

The HMC490LP5 belongs to Hittite's legacy GaAs MMIC amplifier family, engineered specifically for Ku-band infrastructure requiring low noise, high linearity, and robust thermal performance in compact surface-mount packages.

FAQ

What is the recommended gate bias voltage for HMC490LP5 to achieve nominal 200 mA supply current?

The HMC490LP5 achieves 200 mA typical Idd at Vgg ≈ −0.8 V, adjustable within −2 to 0 V range. External bypassing with 100 pF and 0.01 µF capacitors is mandatory at the Vgg pin to suppress noise and ensure stable bias. This adjustment allows fine-tuning for unit-to-unit variation and temperature drift.

Does HMC490LP5 require external matching networks for 50 Ω system integration?

No - the HMC490LP5 features internally matched 50 Ω input and output impedances across 12–16 GHz. Its RFIN and RFOUT pads are AC-coupled and optimized for direct connection to 50 Ω transmission lines, eliminating discrete matching components and minimizing insertion loss in Ku-band layouts.

What is the maximum RF input power rating for HMC490LP5, and how does it relate to reliability?

The HMC490LP5 has an absolute maximum RF input power rating of +10 dBm at Vdd = +5 V. Exceeding this may cause permanent damage or parametric shift. For reliable operation, input power should remain ≤ −5 dBm in linear receive mode or ≤ 0 dBm in high-dynamic-range transmit driver use, respecting the +25 dBm P1dB compression point.

How should the exposed thermal paddle on the HMC490LP5 package be handled during PCB layout?

The exposed paddle on the HMC490LP5 must be soldered directly to a solid, low-impedance RF ground plane using ≥9 thermal vias (0.3 mm diameter, spaced ≤1 mm apart). Per Hittite Application Note, this connection is mandatory for both thermal dissipation (supporting 1.6 W at 85 °C) and RF shielding integrity - floating or partially soldered paddles degrade noise figure and gain stability.

Is HMC490LP5 RoHS-compliant, and what is its moisture sensitivity level?

The standard HMC490LP5 uses Sn/Pb lead finish and is not RoHS-compliant; the RoHS-compliant variant is HMC490LP5E (100% matte Sn, MSL1, 260 °C peak reflow). Both variants carry MSL1 rating - meaning they may be stored indefinitely at ≤30 °C/60% RH without baking prior to assembly.