Analog Devices Inc. 110227-HMC584LP5

Overview

HMC584LP5 from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a GaAs InGaP HBT MMIC voltage-controlled oscillator with integrated half-frequency and divide-by-4 outputs, operating from 12.5–13.9 GHz at +10 dBm RF output power, -110 dBc/Hz phase noise @ 100 kHz offset, and 32-pin 5×5 mm QFN package - used in SATCOM transceivers requiring stable local oscillator synthesis.

For engineers reviewing the HMC584LP5 datasheet, HMC584LP5 pinout, HMC584LP5 application, or HMC584LP5 equivalent, this page delivers verified specifications, functional pin mapping, real-world use cases in point-to-point radio and test equipment, and validated alternative VCOs for frequency-agile RF systems.

Technical Context

The HMC584LP5 integrates monolithic resonators, varactor tuning, and on-die prescaler logic to deliver three synchronized RF outputs: fundamental (Fo), half-frequency (Fo/2), and quarter-frequency (Fo/4). Its GaAs HBT process ensures low phase noise drift over -40°C to +85°C and minimal pulling under 2.0:1 VSWR load variation.

Supply rails are partitioned: Vcc(RF) powers the main oscillator core, Vcc(Amp) drives the Fo/2 buffer, and Vcc(Dig) supplies the ÷4 prescaler - enabling independent current shutdown of unused outputs. Tuning sensitivity is 300–800 MHz/V across 2–12 V, with <10 µA tune-port leakage at 12 V.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

32-lead leadless QFN (5×5 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) with exposed thermal paddle; RoHS-compliant Sn finish; MSL3 rating; max reflow 235°C. Ground paddle and all GND pins must be soldered to solid RF ground plane.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with HMC584LP5, HMC586LP5E extends upper frequency but sacrifices phase noise and output power, while ADF4371BCPZ replaces analog tuning with digital PLL control and removes dual-output capability - making HMC584LP5 optimal for analog-centric, multi-output X-band LO designs.

Availability

HMC584LP5 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for point-to-point radio, SATCOM transceivers, and test equipment requiring stable component supply, full traceability, and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for HMC584LP5 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 product lines, including MMIC VCOs, synthesizers, and front-end ICs for defense, aerospace, and communications.

The HMC584LP5 belongs to Hittite's legacy MMIC VCO family, engineered specifically for X-band LO generation in size-, weight-, and power-constrained RF systems requiring analog tuning and multiple coherent outputs.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for the HMC584LP5?

The HMC584LP5 operates from -40°C to +85°C ambient temperature. Its monolithic GaAs HBT structure ensures stable phase noise and frequency drift across this range, with measured phase noise variation <±1 dBc/Hz and frequency drift rate of 1.5 MHz/°C - validated per the datasheet's thermal characterization curves.

Can the HMC584LP5 operate with only the RF output enabled and Fo/2 and ÷4 disabled?

Yes. The HMC584LP5 supports partial-enable operation: leave Vcc(Amp) and Vcc(Dig) unconnected to disable Fo/2 and ÷4 outputs, reducing total supply current from 330 mA to ~235 mA. RFOUT remains fully functional at +10 dBm with unchanged phase noise and tuning linearity.

Is an external DC blocking capacitor required on the RFOUT pin of the HMC584LP5?

Yes. All RF outputs - RFOUT (pin 19), RFOUT/2 (pin 12), and RFOUT/4 (pin 4) - are AC-coupled internally and require external DC blocking capacitors (e.g., 100 pF, 0402) before connection to test equipment or downstream circuitry to prevent bias disruption and ensure proper impedance matching.

What is the recommended PCB grounding strategy for the HMC584LP5's exposed paddle?

The exposed thermal paddle (pin 5, 11, and bottom surface) must be soldered to a solid RF ground plane using ≥6 thermal vias (0.3 mm diameter, spaced ≤2 mm apart) connecting to inner and bottom ground layers. This achieves the specified 23 °C/W thermal resistance and minimizes ground inductance that could degrade phase noise.

Does the HMC584LP5 require external matching components for RFOUT operation?

No. The HMC584LP5 is fully matched to 50 Ω at RFOUT, RFOUT/2, and RFOUT/4 outputs. No external baluns, transformers, or matching networks are needed - simplifying layout and eliminating tuning dependencies. Input VTUNE and supply pins do require standard decoupling (e.g., 100 pF + 2.2 µF per rail).