Analog Devices Inc. 118038-HMC476SC70

Overview

The HMC476SC70 from Analog Devices is a SiGe HBT gain block MMIC amplifier operating from DC to 6 GHz, delivering 20 dB small-signal gain, +12 dBm P1dB output power, and +24 dBm OIP3 at 850 MHz with 35 mA supply current at +5 V. It serves as a cascadable 50 Ω RF/IF gain stage or LO/PA driver in wireless infrastructure transceivers.

For engineers reviewing the HMC476SC70 datasheet, HMC476SC70 pinout, HMC476SC70 application, or HMC476SC70 equivalent, key selection criteria include broadband gain flatness (±3 dB over DC–4 GHz), input/output return loss ≥20 dB up to 4 GHz, noise figure ≤2.5 dB at 0.5–4 GHz, and SC70 package compatibility with high-frequency PCB layout requirements.

Technical Context

This monolithic microwave integrated circuit uses a Darlington-configured SiGe HBT topology to achieve stable gain across temperature (0.008–0.012 dB/°C) and reduced process sensitivity. Its DC-coupled RFIN and bias-fed RFOUT enable flexible integration into multi-stage amplifiers without external bias tees.

The device operates from a single +5 V to +12 V supply, with internal biasing stabilized by an external 56 Ω resistor (at +5 V), supporting fixed-current operation (35 mA typ.) and enabling predictable RF performance across -40 °C to +85 °C ambient.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: SC70-6 (low-stress injection-molded plastic, Sn/Pb lead finish, MSL1, 2.0 × 1.25 × 0.9 mm body). Thermal resistance θ_JA = 129 °C/W; ESD rating: HBM Class 1A.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with HMC476SC70, HMC477SC70 offers higher gain and output power at marginally increased current, while QPL9057 trades linearity and temperature range for lower-voltage operation and integrated bias - making HMC476SC70 optimal for 5 V, high-linearity, wide-temperature industrial RF designs.

Availability

HMC476SC70 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for cellular base station transceivers, WiMAX front-ends, and CATV optical node amplifiers requiring stable component supply, consistent RF performance, and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for HMC476SC70 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 semiconductor leader specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and RF technologies for precision signal processing.

The HMC476SC70 belongs to the Hittite Microwave (acquired by Analog Devices) MMIC gain block product line, engineered for broadband RF infrastructure applications demanding cascadable 50 Ω performance, low noise, and high linearity from DC to 6 GHz.

FAQ

What is the recommended supply voltage and bias resistor for HMC476SC70 in a +5 V application?

The HMC476SC70 is specified for operation from +5 V to +12 V. At +5 V, a 56 Ω external bias resistor (Rbias) is recommended to set I_CQ ≈ 35 mA. This value ensures stable quiescent current across temperature and aligns with the typical gain and linearity performance shown in the datasheet. The resistor must be rated for ≥1/8 W and placed close to Pin 6 (RFOUT/Vcc) to minimize parasitic inductance.

Does HMC476SC70 require external DC blocking capacitors, and where are they needed?

Yes, HMC476SC70 requires external DC blocking capacitors on both RFIN (Pin 3) and RFOUT (Pin 6). Pin 3 is DC-coupled but must be AC-coupled to preceding stages using a capacitor (e.g., 100 pF at >1 GHz); Pin 6 carries DC bias and RF output simultaneously, so a series capacitor (e.g., 100 pF) is mandatory before connecting to the next stage. These capacitors prevent DC level mismatches and ensure proper bias isolation.

What is the thermal resistance and maximum junction temperature specification for HMC476SC70?

The HMC476SC70 has a junction-to-lead thermal resistance (θ_JL) of 129 °C/W. Its absolute maximum junction temperature is 150 °C, with continuous power dissipation limited to 0.504 W at T_A = 85 °C (derating 7.75 mW/°C above that). Proper PCB layout - including direct grounding of Pins 1, 2, 4, 5 to a solid ground plane with multiple thermal vias - is essential to maintain safe operating temperature under +12 dBm RF output conditions.

Is HMC476SC70 pin-compatible with HMC476SC70E, and what is the key difference?

Yes, HMC476SC70 and HMC476SC70E share identical pinout, electrical specifications, and SC70-6 mechanical footprint. The sole difference is RoHS compliance: HMC476SC70E uses 100% matte tin lead finish and supports peak reflow up to 260 °C, whereas HMC476SC70 uses Sn/Pb finish with 235 °C max reflow. Both parts are drop-in replacements in compatible assembly processes.

Can HMC476SC70 be used as a low-noise amplifier (LNA) in receiver front-ends?

Yes, the HMC476SC70 can serve as an LNA in receiver front-ends where moderate noise figure is acceptable. With a typical noise figure of 2.5 dB (0.5–4 GHz) and input return loss ≥20 dB, it provides usable sensitivity enhancement ahead of mixers - especially in IF or secondary RF gain positions. However, for ultra-low-noise applications (<1.5 dB NF), dedicated LNAs like the HMC517LC4 are preferred.