Analog Devices Inc. 122198-HMC383LC4

Overview

The HMC383LC4 from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a GaAs PHEMT MMIC medium-power amplifier operating from 12 to 30 GHz, delivering 15 dB small-signal gain, +18 dBm saturated output power, and +25 dBm output IP3 at +5 V supply. It functions as a broadband driver or LO amplifier in millimeter-wave radio front-ends, supporting point-to-point radios and test equipment.

For engineers reviewing the HMC383LC4 datasheet, HMC383LC4 pinout, HMC383LC4 application, or HMC383LC4 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 12–30 GHz bandwidth, 50 Ω matched RF I/Os, RoHS-compliant 4×4 mm ceramic package, and stable performance across –40°C to +85°C ambient temperature.

Technical Context

The HMC383LC4 is a monolithic microwave integrated circuit using GaAs PHEMT technology, optimized for linear operation with DC-blocked, 50 Ω-matched input (Pin 3) and output (Pin 16). Its single +5 V supply draws 100 mA typical and supports broadband gain flatness ≤3 dB across 12–30 GHz.

Thermal management relies on soldering the exposed ground paddle and all ground pins (1,2,4–15,17,18,20–24) directly to PCB RF ground via multiple vias. Absolute maximum drain voltage is +5.5 Vdc, with ESD sensitivity rated Class 1A (HBM).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The HMC383LC4 is housed in a RoHS-compliant, leadless 4×4 mm alumina ceramic package (MSL3) with an exposed ground paddle. All ground pins and the paddle must be soldered to RF/DC ground using multiple thermal vias.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar medium-power RF amplifier applications.

Compared with HMC460LC4 and QPA2211, the HMC383LC4 offers the widest continuous bandwidth (12–30 GHz) at moderate power and single +5 V operation, making it optimal for multi-band driver applications where frequency coverage and supply simplicity outweigh peak power needs.

Availability

HMC383LC4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for point-to-point radios, test equipment, and military communications systems requiring stable component supply, full RoHS compliance, and guaranteed traceability.

Supply support for HMC383LC4 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 product portfolio, including GaAs and GaN MMICs for defense, communications, and instrumentation markets.

The HMC383LC4 belongs to Hittite's legacy MMIC amplifier family designed specifically for broadband millimeter-wave driver and LO applications requiring minimal external components and surface-mount manufacturability.

FAQ

What is the recommended DC blocking configuration for the HMC383LC4 RFIN and RFOUT ports?

The HMC383LC4 features internally DC-blocked RF I/Os matched to 50 Ω, eliminating the need for external DC blocking capacitors in standard 50 Ω system interfaces. If interfacing with non-50 Ω sources or loads, external matching networks may be required-but no series capacitor is needed solely for DC isolation. The internal blocking preserves broadband performance from 12 to 30 GHz without added parasitics.

Does the HMC383LC4 require external bias sequencing or power-up timing control?

No-HMC383LC4 operates with a single +5 V supply and has no strict bias sequencing requirement. The device draws 100 mA typical at +5 V and remains functional across +4.5 V to +5.5 V. Standard decoupling (100 pF, 1 nF, 2.2 µF) at Pin 19 (Vdd) suffices; no startup delay, ramp rate, or enable pin is defined in the datasheet.

Can the HMC383LC4 be used in pulsed RF applications?

Yes-the HMC383LC4 supports pulsed operation within its absolute maximum ratings. With a channel temperature limit of 175°C and thermal resistance of 98°C/W, average power must remain below ~0.92 W at 85°C case temperature (derated above). Pulse width, duty cycle, and heatsinking determine safe operating envelope; no special gate control or shutdown circuitry is required.

What is the meaning of "MSL3" for the HMC383LC4 package, and how does it affect assembly?

MSL3 (Moisture Sensitivity Level 3) indicates the HMC383LC4 must be stored dry and baked before reflow if exposed to ambient air beyond floor life (168 hours at ≤30°C/60% RH). Peak reflow temperature is 260°C. This rating reflects its alumina ceramic body and gold-over-nickel plating-standard for high-reliability RF MMICs-and requires adherence to J-STD-020 guidelines during SMT assembly.

Is the HMC383LC4 pin-compatible with other Hittite LC4-series amplifiers like HMC460LC4?

No-HMC383LC4 is not pin-compatible with HMC460LC4. Although both use the same 4×4 mm leadless ceramic package footprint, their pin assignments differ: HMC383LC4 uses Pin 3 for RFIN and Pin 16 for RFOUT, while HMC460LC4 assigns RFIN to Pin 2 and RFOUT to Pin 15. Layout redesign is required for substitution.