Analog Devices Inc. 112409-HMC576LC3B

Overview

HMC576LC3B from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a GaAs PHEMT-based x2 active frequency multiplier IC designed for LO generation in millimeter-wave systems. It delivers +15 dBm typical output power across 18–29 GHz when driven by +3 dBm input, features >20 dBc Fo and 3Fo isolation at 24 GHz, and operates from a single +5 V supply drawing 82 mA - enabling compact, high-isolation multiplier chains in point-to-point radios and test instrumentation.

For engineers reviewing the HMC576LC3B datasheet, HMC576LC3B pinout, HMC576LC3B application, or HMC576LC3B equivalent, key selection criteria include its 18–29 GHz output bandwidth, +15 dBm output power, -132 dBc/Hz SSB phase noise at 100 kHz offset, RoHS-compliant 3×3 mm ceramic SMT package, and requirement for external bypass capacitors (100 pF / 1 nF / 2.2 µF) on dual 5 V supplies.

Technical Context

The HMC576LC3B implements a broadband x2 multiplication architecture using GaAs PHEMT MMIC technology, with AC-coupled 50 Ω matched RF input (Pin 2) and RF output (Pin 8), and dual independent +5 V supply rails (Pins 10 & 12) requiring three-tier decoupling. Its design targets low-additive phase noise and high fundamental/3rd-harmonic suppression to minimize LO chain filtering complexity.

Operating over -40°C to +85°C, the device maintains ≥10 dB input/output return loss across its band and achieves stable output power vs. temperature and supply voltage - verified from -40°C to +85°C and 4.5–5.5 V - supporting robust deployment in military, space, and VSAT platforms where thermal and supply variation tolerance is critical.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 12-lead ceramic QFN (3×3 mm, alumina body, gold-over-nickel plating, MSL3), with exposed ground paddle requiring solder connection to PCB RF ground. Pin 1 identified by dot marking; all GND pins (1, 3, 7, 9) and paddle must be grounded per RF layout best practices.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar active frequency multiplier applications.

Compared with HMC1085LP3E and QPL9057, the HMC576LC3B provides the best balance of output power, phase noise, and isolation specifically within the 18–29 GHz band - making it preferred for high-performance PtP radios and telecom clocking where spectral purity and spurious suppression are critical.

Availability

HMC576LC3B is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for point-to-point radio design, satellite communications hardware, and millimeter-wave test instrumentation requiring stable component supply, traceable sourcing, and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for HMC576LC3B 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/Microwave portfolio into ADI's broader signal chain solutions. The company specializes in precision analog, RF, and mixed-signal ICs for communications, defense, and instrumentation.

The HMC576LC3B belongs to Hittite's legacy GaAs MMIC multiplier family, engineered specifically for high-isolation, low-phase-noise LO synthesis in E-band wireless infrastructure and aerospace systems - emphasizing reliability under thermal stress and RF layout simplicity.

FAQ

What is the recommended input drive level for optimal performance of the HMC576LC3B?

The HMC576LC3B achieves its specified +15 dBm typical output power and >20 dBc Fo isolation when driven with +3 dBm input. It supports an input range of 0 to +6 dBm; operation below +1 dBm reduces output power and may degrade isolation, while exceeding +6 dBm risks reliability per absolute maximum ratings. The HMC576LC3B datasheet confirms +3 dBm as the nominal drive condition for all published electrical specifications.

Does the HMC576LC3B require external DC blocking capacitors on RF ports?

Yes, the HMC576LC3B has internally AC-coupled RF input (Pin 2) and RF output (Pin 8), but external DC blocking capacitors are still required in the application circuit to prevent DC interaction with preceding or following stages. The HMC576LC3B evaluation board design uses series capacitors on both RF paths, and the datasheet specifies 50 Ω impedance matching - confirming that external blocking remains necessary despite internal AC coupling.

What is the thermal resistance and maximum channel temperature specification for the HMC576LC3B?

The HMC576LC3B has a thermal resistance of 133 °C/W (channel to ground paddle) and a maximum channel temperature of 175 °C. Its continuous power dissipation is rated at 676 mW at 85 °C ambient, derating by 7.5 mW/°C above that temperature. These values are defined in the Absolute Maximum Ratings table of the HMC576LC3B datasheet and are critical for thermal design validation in sealed or high-ambient environments.

Can the HMC576LC3B operate from a single 5 V supply, or are dual supplies mandatory?

The HMC576LC3B requires two separate +5 V supply connections: Vdd1 (Pin 12) and Vdd2 (Pin 10), each independently bypassed with 100 pF, 1 nF, and 2.2 µF capacitors. Although both rails are +5 V, they serve distinct internal bias networks; connecting them together violates the HMC576LC3B application schematic and risks degraded isolation and increased phase noise. The datasheet explicitly defines Pins 10 and 12 as separate supply terminals.

Is the HMC576LC3B pin-compatible with other Hittite multiplier variants like the HMC577LC3B?

No, the HMC576LC3B is not pin-compatible with HMC577LC3B. While both are 3×3 mm QFN multipliers, the HMC577LC3B is a x3 multiplier with different pin assignments - including dedicated RFOUT and FOUT pins - and distinct supply and ground pin configurations. The HMC576LC3B pinout (12-pin, with GND on 1/3/7/9, RFIN on 2, RFOUT on 8, Vdd on 10/12) is unique to its x2 function and confirmed in the HMC576LC3B datasheet's Pin Description table.