Analog Devices Inc. 109952-HMC292LC3B

Overview

HMC292LC3B from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a GaAs MMIC passive double-balanced mixer operating from 16–30 GHz RF/LO and DC–8 GHz IF, delivering typical conversion loss of 9.5 dB, +20 dBm input IP3, 40 dB LO/RF isolation, and requiring no DC bias or external matching components. It serves as an upconverter or downconverter in millimeter-wave radio transceivers.

For engineers reviewing the HMC292LC3B datasheet, HMC292LC3B pinout, HMC292LC3B application, or HMC292LC3B equivalent, key selection criteria include its 12-lead 3×3 mm ceramic SMT package, Class 1C ESD robustness, wide IF bandwidth supporting baseband-to-8 GHz, and operation with +9 to +15 dBm LO drive.

Technical Context

The HMC292LC3B employs optimized balun structures to achieve high LO-to-RF and LO-to-IF suppression without external components. Its passive architecture eliminates DC bias requirements and enables surface-mount manufacturing without wire bonding.

It operates across two RF/LO bands: 16–26 GHz (min/max) and 26–30 GHz (min/max), with consistent IF bandwidth (DC–8 GHz) and thermal stability over −40°C to +85°C. Conversion performance is specified at TA = +25°C, IF = 1 GHz, LO = +13 dBm, and validated for both upconverter and downconverter configurations.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

12-lead leadless ceramic SMT package (3×3 mm, 9 mm² body, alumina substrate, gold-over-nickel plating). Ground paddle must be soldered to PCB RF ground per datasheet note #7.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar passive double-balanced mixer applications.

Compared with HMC292LC3B, HMC1048LP3E trades 2 dB higher conversion loss for 10–40 GHz coverage, while QPC1006 offers superior linearity but sacrifices IF bandwidth and requires layout changes-making HMC292LC3B optimal for cost-sensitive, fixed-band Ka-band radios needing DC–8 GHz IF support.

Availability

HMC292LC3B is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for point-to-point radios, VSAT terminals, and millimeter-wave test equipment requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle assurance, and RoHS-compliant SMT integration.

Supply support for HMC292LC3B 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 maintains its high-frequency RF portfolio, specializing in GaAs and SiGe MMIC solutions for defense, communications, and instrumentation markets.

The HMC292LC3B belongs to Hittite's legacy passive mixer product line, designed specifically for Ka-band wireless infrastructure and test equipment where simplicity, linearity, and wide IF bandwidth are critical.

FAQ

Does the HMC292LC3B require DC bias or external matching components?

No, the HMC292LC3B is a passive double-balanced mixer and requires no DC bias. Its internal balun structures provide 50 Ω matching at RF, LO, and IF ports across the full 16–30 GHz band, eliminating external matching networks. This simplifies design and improves repeatability in high-frequency layouts.

What is the maximum LO drive level supported by the HMC292LC3B?

The HMC292LC3B supports LO drive levels from +9 dBm to +15 dBm, with optimal conversion loss and isolation achieved at +13 dBm. Absolute maximum LO input is +27 dBm, but operation above +15 dBm risks degradation in linearity and reliability without thermal derating.

Can the HMC292LC3B operate with DC-coupled IF signals?

Yes, the IF port of the HMC292LC3B is DC-coupled and supports operation from DC to 8 GHz. However, the device must not source or sink more than ±2 mA through the IF pin to avoid non-function or permanent damage-external current limiting may be required in DC-coupled baseband interfaces.

Is the HMC292LC3B pin-compatible with other Hittite mixer packages like the HMC1048LP3E?

No, the HMC292LC3B is not pin-compatible with HMC1048LP3E. Although both use 3×3 mm ceramic packages, their pin assignments differ: HMC292LC3B assigns GND to pins 1/3/4/6/7/9 and IF to pin 5, whereas HMC1048LP3E uses distinct pin mapping per its datasheet-PCB redesign is required for substitution.

What thermal management is required for continuous operation of the HMC292LC3B?

The HMC292LC3B has a junction-to-ground-paddle thermal resistance of 250 °C/W. For continuous operation at max dissipation (260 mW at Ta = 85 °C), the exposed ground paddle must be fully soldered to a thermally robust PCB ground plane with multiple vias to inner-layer ground planes and, if needed, an external heat sink per evaluation board guidelines.