Analog Devices Inc. 131046-HMC934LP5E

Overview

HMC934LP5E from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a high-accuracy analog phase shifter IC used in RF signal path control for beamforming and frequency-agile systems. It delivers 0–400° continuous phase shift across 1–2 GHz, with 3.5 dB typical insertion loss, ±1 mA control current, and +3.5 / –2° average phase error at +25°C.

For engineers reviewing the HMC934LP5E datasheet, HMC934LP5E pinout, HMC934LP5E application, or HMC934LP5E equivalent, this page provides verified electrical specs, package layout, real-world use cases in EW and radar, and validated alternative options for phase-sensitive RF design.

Technical Context

The HMC934LP5E implements a monolithic GaAs-based analog phase shifting architecture using voltage-controlled varactor diodes and impedance-matched transmission lines. Its phase response is monotonic over 0–13 V control voltage, with 32°/V sensitivity and <6 MHz modulation bandwidth.

It operates within –40°C to +85°C, features 45°C/W junction-to-paddle thermal resistance, and maintains <0.16°/°C insertion phase temperature sensitivity. Input/output return loss exceeds 15 dB across band, and input IP3 reaches 30 dBm at 1.5 GHz.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

32-lead RoHS-compliant 5 × 5 mm QFN package with exposed ground paddle. Requires soldering all ground leads and multiple thermal vias under the paddle for optimal RF grounding and thermal performance.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar analog phase shifter applications.

Compared with HMC934LP5E, HMC647LP4E trades 40° phase margin and 1 dB loss for broader low-frequency extension, while QM11036 sacrifices control voltage flexibility and thermal robustness for footprint reduction-neither offers pin compatibility or identical phase linearity.

Availability

HMC934LP5E is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for military radar, satellite communications uplinks, and electronic warfare receivers requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for HMC934LP5E 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 integrates its high-frequency RF IC portfolio into precision signal processing and microwave solutions.

The HMC934LP5E belongs to Analog Devices' high-linearity GaAs phase shifter product line, engineered for defense, aerospace, and instrumentation applications demanding sub-degree phase accuracy and wide dynamic range.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for the HMC934LP5E?

The HMC934LP5E is specified for continuous operation from –40°C to +85°C ambient. Its junction temperature remains within safe limits up to 150°C, supported by 45°C/W thermal resistance and mandatory exposed paddle grounding. This makes the HMC934LP5E suitable for conduction-cooled radar modules and outdoor SATCOM terminals where thermal cycling is expected.

Does the HMC934LP5E require external DC blocking capacitors?

Yes-the HMC934LP5E RFIN and RFOUT pins are internally AC-coupled, but external 100 pF 0402 capacitors (as used on evaluation board 131046) are recommended to ensure broadband 50 Ω match and prevent bias leakage into preceding or following stages. The HMC934LP5E datasheet confirms this configuration in its evaluation PCB schematic and layout guidelines.

Can the HMC934LP5E be used beyond 2 GHz?

No-the HMC934LP5E is characterized and guaranteed only from 1 to 2 GHz. Phase shift drops sharply above 2 GHz, and insertion loss rises beyond specification. Measurements show normalized phase shift degrades to <300° at 2.2 GHz, and return loss falls below 10 dB-making operation outside 1–2 GHz unsupported for production designs using the HMC934LP5E.

What is the maximum RF input power the HMC934LP5E can handle?

The absolute maximum RF input power for the HMC934LP5E is 27 dBm (500 mW), per its Absolute Maximum Ratings table. At +10 dBm input, it delivers 30 dBm input IP3; at 0 dBm, third harmonic is ≤ –45 dBc. Exceeding 27 dBm risks permanent damage to the GaAs varactor structure, regardless of duty cycle or cooling.

Is the HMC934LP5E pin-compatible with other Hittite phase shifters like the HMC647LP4E?

No-the HMC934LP5E uses a 32-lead 5 × 5 mm QFN package, while the HMC647LP4E uses a 24-lead 5 × 5 mm QFN. Pin count, layout, and function mapping differ: HMC934LP5E has dedicated Vctl (Pin 14) and dual GND (Pins 7, 18), whereas HMC647LP4E consolidates grounds and uses different control interface routing. Direct replacement requires PCB redesign; the HMC934LP5E is not a drop-in substitute.