Analog Devices Inc. 109712-HMC441LC3B

Overview

HMC441LC3B from Analog Devices is a GaAs pHEMT MMIC medium power amplifier operating from 6 to 18 GHz, delivering 14 dB small-signal gain, +21.5 dBm saturated output power at 27% PAE, and 50 Ω input/output matching with single +5 V supply. It serves as a linear gain block or LO driver for HMC mixers in microwave radio systems.

For engineers reviewing the HMC441LC3B datasheet, HMC441LC3B pinout, HMC441LC3B application, or HMC441LC3B equivalent, key selection criteria include broadband RF performance across 6–18 GHz, DC-blocked I/Os for simplified integration, thermal management via exposed paddle, RoHS-compliant 12-lead ceramic LCC package, and compatibility with high-volume SMT assembly.

Technical Context

The HMC441LC3B employs a monolithic GaAs pHEMT process to achieve stable gain flatness and return loss across three overlapping frequency bands (6–8.5, 8.5–12.5, 12.5–14, and 14–18 GHz), with typical gain variation of ≤0.02 dB/°C over temperature. Its 50 Ω matched architecture eliminates external matching components.

It operates from a single +5 V supply drawing 90 mA, supports DC blocking on both RFIN and RFOUT, and features an exposed ground paddle for thermal dissipation (θ_JA = 122 °C/W). ESD rating is Class 0 (100 V HBM).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

12-terminal ceramic leadless chip carrier (LCC) in 3×3 mm outline (9 mm²), alumina body with gold-over-nickel finish, MSL3 rated, with thermally enhanced exposed ground paddle.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar medium-power RF amplifier applications.

Compared with HMC441LC3B, HMC451LC3B offers higher gain and output in identical form factor, while QPA2211 provides broader bandwidth and much higher power at the cost of different biasing and mechanical integration-making HMC441LC3B optimal for compact, +5 V, 6–18 GHz driver applications.

Availability

HMC441LC3B is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for point-to-point radios, LO driver circuits, and military EW subsystems requiring stable component supply, consistent RF performance, and long-term manufacturability.

Supply support for HMC441LC3B 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 semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and RF technologies for precision signal processing.

The HMC series targets microwave and millimeter-wave applications, with the HMC441LC3B designed specifically as a compact, efficient, surface-mount medium-power amplifier for 6–18 GHz communication and defense systems.

FAQ

What is the operating frequency range of the HMC441LC3B?

The HMC441LC3B operates continuously from 6 to 18 GHz, with specified performance across four overlapping sub-bands (6–8.5, 8.5–12.5, 12.5–14, and 14–18 GHz). This broad coverage makes the HMC441LC3B suitable for multi-band microwave radios and wideband test equipment where a single amplifier replaces multiple narrowband devices.

Does the HMC441LC3B require external matching components?

No, the HMC441LC3B features fully 50 Ω matched input and output ports, and both RFIN and RFOUT are AC-coupled internally. This eliminates the need for external matching networks or DC-blocking capacitors in most designs, simplifying layout and reducing bill-of-materials count for the HMC441LC3B.

What supply voltage and current does the HMC441LC3B need?

The HMC441LC3B operates from a single +5 V DC supply, drawing 90 mA typical (up to 115 mA max) at room temperature. External bypassing is required: 100 pF (RF), 1000 pF (mid-frequency), and 2.2 µF (bulk) capacitors on the Vdd line. The HMC441LC3B remains functional across +4.5 V to +5.5 V, with proportional current change.

How is thermal management handled in the HMC441LC3B package?

The HMC441LC3B uses a 12-terminal ceramic LCC with an exposed ground paddle that must be soldered to a PCB ground plane using multiple thermal vias. Its thermal resistance (channel-to-ground) is 122 °C/W, enabling reliable operation up to +85 °C ambient. Proper paddle connection is mandatory for achieving the rated +21.5 dBm Psat and 27% PAE of the HMC441LC3B.

Is the HMC441LC3B suitable for use as an LO driver?

Yes-the HMC441LC3B is explicitly recommended as an LO driver for HMC-series mixers due to its 50 Ω matched I/Os, broadband flat gain, and low noise figure (4.5–6 dB). Its +21.5 dBm Psat ensures sufficient drive level for active mixers, and DC-blocked ports prevent LO leakage into bias networks-key attributes for stable, repeatable mixer performance with the HMC441LC3B.