Analog Devices Inc. 117810-HMC460LC5

Overview

HMC460LC5 from Analog Devices is a GaAs pHEMT MMIC low-noise distributed amplifier operating from DC to 20 GHz, delivering 14 dB gain, 2.5 dB noise figure at 10 GHz, +16.5 dBm P1dB output power, and internally 50 Ω matched I/Os - deployed in EW, radar, and microwave test instrumentation where broadband flat gain and ultra-low noise are critical.

For engineers reviewing the HMC460LC5 datasheet, HMC460LC5 pinout, HMC460LC5 application, or HMC460LC5 equivalent, key selection criteria include its DC–20 GHz bandwidth, 75 mA supply current at +8 V, ±0.5 dB gain flatness over full band, and 32-terminal ceramic LCC package with exposed thermal pad for high-reliability RF front-end designs.

Technical Context

The HMC460LC5 employs a distributed amplifier architecture using GaAs pHEMT transistors to achieve wideband operation without tuning networks. Its DC-coupled 50 Ω input and output eliminate external DC blocking, enabling baseband-to-RF signal chain integration.

It operates with fixed +8 V drain bias and adjustable gate bias (Vgg = –2 to 0 V) to set 75 mA quiescent current. Thermal design relies on the exposed 32-terminal ceramic LCC bottom pad, with 44.4 °C/W channel-to-package thermal resistance and –55 °C to +85 °C operating range.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

32-terminal ceramic leadless chip carrier (LCC), 5 × 5 mm body, white alumina substrate, gold-over-nickel finish, MSL3 rating, with thermally enhanced exposed bottom pad. Pin 1 marked by corner notch; pins 1–4, 7–12, 14, 16–20, 23–29, and 31 are no-connect (RF groundable); package requires solder reflow per JEDEC J-STD-020 (260 °C peak).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar low-noise amplifier applications.

Compared with HMC564LC5 and QPL9057, the HMC460LC5 uniquely balances DC–20 GHz bandwidth, 2.5 dB noise figure, and +16.5 dBm P1dB in a thermally robust ceramic LCC - making it irreplaceable in wideband radar and EW systems where both sensitivity and power headroom are simultaneously constrained.

Availability

HMC460LC5 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for electronic warfare systems, radar front-ends, and microwave test instrumentation requiring stable component supply, long-term obsolescence management, and traceable sourcing for defense-critical programs.

Supply support for HMC460LC5 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 leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and RF ICs, serving precision instrumentation, communications, and defense markets since 1965.

The HMC460LC5 belongs to Analog Devices' Hittite Microwave MMIC product line, engineered specifically for broadband RF/microwave systems demanding ultra-low noise, high linearity, and DC-coupled operation across military, aerospace, and test equipment applications.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for the HMC460LC5?

The HMC460LC5 is specified for operation from –55 °C to +85 °C ambient temperature. Its internal channel temperature must not exceed 175 °C, and derating applies above 85 °C (23 mW/°C). This range supports deployment in harsh environments including airborne radar and ground-based EW platforms where thermal cycling is common. The HMC460LC5's ceramic LCC package and exposed thermal pad enable reliable conduction cooling within this envelope.

Does the HMC460LC5 require external matching components?

No, the HMC460LC5 features internally matched 50 Ω input and output ports across its entire DC–20 GHz bandwidth, eliminating the need for external matching networks. This simplifies PCB layout, reduces insertion loss, and improves repeatability in high-frequency designs. However, proper grounding of the exposed pad and use of recommended bypass capacitors (e.g., 0.1 µF and 0.01 µF near Vdd and Vgg) remain essential for stable operation. The HMC460LC5's integrated matching is verified per its S-parameter data and application circuit.

How is gate bias configured for optimal performance of the HMC460LC5?

Gate bias (Vgg) for the HMC460LC5 is adjustable from –2 V to 0 V to set the nominal 75 mA drain current at +8 V Vdd. Typical Vgg is –0.9 V, and fine-tuning within this range allows optimization of noise figure versus gain trade-offs. The HMC460LC5 datasheet specifies that Vgg must be applied through a low-leakage, high-impedance source to avoid instability. Bias sequencing (Vgg before Vdd) and proper decoupling at ACG1/ACG2 pins are critical - all defined in the "MMIC Amplifier Biasing Procedure" application note referenced in the HMC460LC5 documentation.

What is the maximum RF input power the HMC460LC5 can tolerate?

The HMC460LC5 has an absolute maximum RF input power rating of +18 dBm when Vdd = +8 Vdc. Exceeding this level risks permanent damage to the GaAs pHEMT devices. For linear operation, input power should remain well below P1dB (–1.5 dBm typical at 10 GHz), and system-level protection (e.g., limiter diodes or attenuators) is recommended in high-power transmit/receive switch architectures. This +18 dBm limit is validated under continuous-wave conditions and applies across the full DC–20 GHz band per the HMC460LC5 absolute maximum ratings table.

Is the HMC460LC5 RoHS compliant and what is its moisture sensitivity level?

Yes, the HMC460LC5 is RoHS compliant and rated MSL3 per JEDEC J-STD-020, with a maximum peak reflow temperature of 260 °C. Its white alumina ceramic package with gold-over-nickel lead finish meets lead-free assembly requirements. The device must be stored dry and baked if exposed beyond floor life (168 hours at ≤30 °C/60% RH), and the top-marking "H460" confirms lot traceability. Compliance documentation and test reports for the HMC460LC5 are available directly from Analog Devices upon request.