Analog Devices Inc. 117638-HMC338LC3B

Overview

HMC338LC3B from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a GaAs MMIC sub-harmonically pumped (x2) mixer with integrated LO amplifier, operating 24–34 GHz RF, 11.5–16.5 GHz LO, and DC–3 GHz IF. It delivers 11–15 dB conversion loss, 30 dB 2LO-to-RF isolation, and requires only −5 dBm LO drive at +4 V supply. Used in millimeter-wave point-to-point radios and SATCOM transceivers.

For engineers reviewing the HMC338LC3B datasheet, HMC338LC3B pinout, HMC338LC3B application, or HMC338LC3B equivalent, key selection criteria include its 2LO-pumped architecture, 12-lead 3×3 mm SMT package, DC-coupled IF port, single +4 V bias requirement, and absence of wire bonding-enabling high-frequency surface-mount assembly without external LO amplification.

Technical Context

The HMC338LC3B implements a sub-harmonic (x2) mixing architecture where the LO frequency is half the RF frequency, reducing LO source complexity and enabling use of lower-frequency synthesizers. Its integrated GaAs LO amplifier accepts −5 dBm input and delivers sufficient drive to the mixer core without external gain stages.

RF and LO ports are AC-coupled and 50 Ω matched; the IF port is DC-coupled (requiring external series capacitor for DC blocking). The device operates over −40 °C to +85 °C with thermal resistance of 397 °C/W junction-to-ground paddle, demanding direct soldering of all ground leads and the exposed paddle to PCB RF ground.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

12-lead 3×3 mm leadless SMT package with alumina body, gold-over-nickel plating, and exposed ground paddle requiring solder attachment to PCB RF ground plane per MSL3 reflow profile (peak 260 °C).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar sub-harmonic mixer applications.

Compared with HMC338LC3B, HMC1048LP3E trades integrated LO functionality and lower conversion loss for extended RF bandwidth, while QM11030 offers marginally lower loss but sacrifices DC–3 GHz IF flexibility and requires more LO drive - making HMC338LC3B optimal for compact, self-contained E-band radios and SATCOM terminals.

Availability

HMC338LC3B is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for point-to-point radios, VSAT terminals, and military radar sensors requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges and mmWave frequency bands.

Supply support for HMC338LC3B 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 RFIC portfolio, specializing in GaAs and GaN solutions for defense, communications, and instrumentation markets.

The HMC338LC3B belongs to Hittite's legacy MMIC mixer product line, engineered specifically for E-band wireless infrastructure and SATCOM systems requiring compact, high-isolation, sub-harmonic mixing without external LO amplification.

FAQ

What is the recommended LO drive level for optimal performance of the HMC338LC3B?

The HMC338LC3B is specified for −5 dBm LO drive at +4 V supply, delivering 11–15 dB conversion loss and >30 dB 2LO-to-RF isolation. Deviating below −7 dBm increases conversion loss; above −3 dBm yields diminishing returns and risks compression. The HMC338LC3B datasheet confirms −5 dBm as the nominal drive condition across its full 24–34 GHz RF band.

Can the HMC338LC3B be used in upconverter configurations?

Yes, the HMC338LC3B supports both upconversion and downconversion modes. As an upconverter, it accepts DC–3 GHz IF and 11.5–16.5 GHz LO to generate 24–34 GHz RF output. Spurious output data (e.g., 1IF − 2LO) is provided in the datasheet for upconverter operation, confirming validated performance in transmit paths of E-band radios and SATCOM terminals.

Is external DC blocking required on the IF port of the HMC338LC3B?

Yes - the IF port (Pin 5) is DC-coupled, so any applied DC voltage will cause die non-function or failure. An external series capacitor must be placed in the IF path to block DC while passing the full DC–3 GHz bandwidth. The HMC338LC3B evaluation board design and application notes specify capacitor values based on lowest usable IF frequency.

What thermal management is required for continuous operation of the HMC338LC3B?

The HMC338LC3B has a junction-to-ground-paddle thermal resistance of 397 °C/W. To maintain channel temperature ≤175 °C at +85 °C ambient, the exposed ground paddle and all GND pins (1, 3, 4, 6, 7, 9) must be soldered to a low-impedance RF ground plane with ≥6 thermal vias. The HMC338LC3B datasheet mandates this per absolute maximum ratings and outline drawing Note 7.

Does the HMC338LC3B require a negative supply or dual-rail biasing?

No - the HMC338LC3B operates from a single positive supply of +3 V to +4 V applied to Pin 10 (Vdd), drawing 29–40 mA. No negative or split supplies are needed. This single-supply operation simplifies power delivery in compact mmWave modules and aligns with the HMC338LC3B's design goal of minimizing external components.