Analog Devices Inc. 120408-HMC709LC5

Overview

HMC709LC5 from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a GaAs MMIC I/Q upconverter operating from 11–17 GHz RF, with 13 dB typical conversion gain, –20 dBc sideband rejection, and +26 dBm output IP3. It integrates LO buffer, I/Q mixer core, and RF driver amplifier in a single 5×5 mm SMT package, enabling compact Ku-band SSB upconversion in point-to-point radio and radar systems.

For engineers reviewing the HMC709LC5 datasheet, HMC709LC5 pinout, HMC709LC5 application, or HMC709LC5 equivalent, key selection criteria include RF/LO/IF frequency coverage (11–17 GHz / 10–18 GHz / DC–3.75 GHz), sideband suppression performance, thermal limits (–55°C to +85°C), and dual-supply biasing (Vdd1/Vdd2).

Technical Context

The HMC709LC5 implements a monolithic I/Q upconversion architecture with integrated LO buffer driving a balanced I/Q mixer stage, followed by an RF amplifier. Its design requires an external 90° IF hybrid to select upper or lower sideband, and supports DC-coupled IF inputs with current-limited operation (≤3 mA per IF pin).

It operates with high-side LO injection, delivers 20.5 dBm P1dB output, and achieves 10 dB LO-to-RF and 15 dB LO-to-IF isolation without external hybrid. Thermal resistance is 54.6 °C/W (channel-to-ground paddle), and absolute max Vdd is 5.5 V.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

32-lead 5×5 mm leadless SMT package with alumina body, gold-over-nickel plating, and exposed ground paddle. MSL3 rated; peak reflow ≤260 °C. All ground leads and paddle must be soldered to RF/DC ground plane.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar I/Q upconverter applications.

Compared with HMC8192LP5E and QM11024, the HMC709LC5 delivers superior sideband suppression and better IP3-to-current ratio, making it the preferred choice for Ku-band VSAT and EW systems demanding high dynamic range in compact form factor.

Availability

HMC709LC5 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for point-to-point radio, Ku-band VSAT upconverters, and military radar/EW systems requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant SMT packaging.

Supply support for HMC709LC5 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 portfolio, specializing in GaAs and GaN MMICs for defense, communications, and instrumentation.

The HMC709LC5 belongs to Hittite's legacy I/Q mixer family designed specifically for compact, high-linearity SSB upconversion in Ku-band infrastructure-prioritizing integration, sideband purity, and manufacturability over hybrid alternatives.

FAQ

What is the recommended LO drive level for optimal performance of the HMC709LC5?

The HMC709LC5 is characterized at +6 dBm LO drive, delivering 13 dB conversion gain and –20 dBc sideband rejection. Performance degrades below +3 dBm (gain drops ~2 dB) and above +9 dBm (increased distortion). Maintain LO drive within +5 to +7 dBm for best linearity and sideband suppression in production designs using the HMC709LC5.

Does the HMC709LC5 require an external 90° hybrid, and why?

Yes, the HMC709LC5 requires an external 90° IF hybrid to combine IF1 and IF2 signals and select either upper or lower sideband. The device itself provides I/Q mixing but lacks internal phase-shifting; the hybrid completes the SSB upconversion function. Without it, the HMC709LC5 outputs both sidebands simultaneously.

Can the HMC709LC5 operate with DC-coupled IF inputs, and what are the limits?

Yes, the HMC709LC5 supports DC-coupled IF operation on pins 29 (IF1) and 31 (IF2), but net DC current per pin must not exceed ±3 mA. Exceeding this risks non-function or permanent damage. For AC-coupled use, off-chip blocking capacitors are recommended unless baseband signal integrity demands DC coupling.

What is the thermal management requirement for continuous operation of the HMC709LC5?

The HMC709LC5 has a channel-to-ground paddle thermal resistance of 54.6 °C/W. At max Vdd1/Vdd2 currents (115 mA / 150 mA) and +5 V, power dissipation reaches ~1.3 W. To hold junction temperature ≤125°C at +85°C ambient, minimum 4 cm² of 2-oz copper with ≥8 thermal vias under the paddle is required-per Hittite's evaluation board layout guidelines for the HMC709LC5.

Is the HMC709LC5 still in active production, and what is its lifecycle status?

The HMC709LC5 is marked OBSOLETE in Analog Devices' documentation, but Aetrix Electronics maintains active inventory and offers last-time-buy support with full traceability. No functional replacement has been designated; engineering samples of newer alternatives like HMC8192LP5E are available for migration assessment where the HMC709LC5 is used.