Analog Devices Inc. 131656-HMC966LP4E

Overview

HMC966LP4E from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a GaAs MMIC I/Q downconverter IC designed for RF-to-IF signal translation in 17–20 GHz systems. It delivers 14 dB small-signal conversion gain, 2.5 dB noise figure, and 40 dBc image rejection across its RF band, with dual IF outputs requiring an external 90° hybrid for sideband selection. It serves as the core downconversion stage in high-frequency point-to-point radio and EW receivers.

For engineers reviewing the HMC966LP4E datasheet, HMC966LP4E pinout, HMC966LP4E application, or HMC966LP4E equivalent, this page provides verified RF performance data, validated pin functions, thermal stability metrics across -40°C to +85°C, and real-world sideband suppression behavior - all critical for Ka-band receiver design, image-reject architecture validation, and surface-mount RF layout planning.

Technical Context

The HMC966LP4E integrates a GaAs-based LNA followed by an image-reject mixer driven by an active x2 LO multiplier, eliminating the need for post-LNA image filtering. Its architecture inherently suppresses thermal noise at the image frequency while enabling DC–3.5 GHz IF output capability.

It operates with LO input in 7.5–11.75 GHz range and requires three independent supply rails: VDRF (RF LNA), VDLO1 (first-stage LO amp), and VDLO2 (second-stage LO amp). All RF/IF ports are 50 Ω matched, with AC-coupled RF and LO inputs and DC-coupled IF outputs rated for ≤3 mA DC current.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 24-lead, 4 mm × 4 mm leadless RoHS-compliant SMT package (16 mm² footprint) with exposed ground paddle.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with HMC1048LP4E and ADMV1013ACPZ, the HMC966LP4E offers optimal trade-off for fixed 17–20 GHz Ka-band receivers needing high image rejection, low noise, and DC-coupled IF interface - without added complexity of on-chip synthesis or bandwidth overdesign.

Availability

HMC966LP4E is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for point-to-point radio infrastructure, military EW receivers, and satellite ground terminals requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for HMC966LP4E 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 for defense, aerospace, and communications markets.

The HMC966LP4E belongs to the Hittite MMIC I/Q downconverter product line, engineered specifically for compact, high-performance Ka-band receiver front-ends where image rejection, noise figure, and surface-mount manufacturability are critical.

FAQ

What is the recommended LO drive level for optimal performance of the HMC966LP4E?

The HMC966LP4E achieves best conversion gain (14 dB), noise figure (2.5 dB), and image rejection (40 dBc) at +6 dBm LO drive. Performance degrades at < +2 dBm (gain drops ~3 dB) and > +8 dBm (increased distortion). The datasheet specifies +6 dBm as nominal LO input level under all electrical specifications tables.

Does the HMC966LP4E require an external 90° hybrid, and why?

Yes, the HMC966LP4E requires an external 90° hybrid connected to its IF1 and IF2 outputs to select either upper or lower sideband. The device itself provides quadrature IF signals but does not integrate phase-shifting circuitry; the hybrid completes the image-reject function by combining outputs coherently.

Can the HMC966LP4E operate with DC-coupled IF outputs, and what are the limits?

Yes, both IF1 and IF2 are DC-coupled and support true baseband operation. However, neither output may sink or source more than ±3 mA DC current. Exceeding this risks non-function or permanent damage, so external biasing networks must enforce this current limit.

What is the thermal operating range for the HMC966LP4E, and how does performance vary?

The HMC966LP4E is characterized from -40°C to +85°C. Conversion gain varies by ≤1.5 dB, image rejection by ≤5 dBc, and noise figure by ≤0.8 dB across this range at 17–20 GHz. Full specification compliance is guaranteed only at +25°C, but functional operation is maintained across the full range.

Is the HMC966LP4E pin-compatible with other Hittite LP4E-series mixers like HMC1048LP4E?

No, the HMC966LP4E is not pin-compatible with HMC1048LP4E. Although both use 4×4 mm 24-lead packages, pin functions differ significantly: VDRF, VDLO1, and VDLO2 assignments are unique to HMC966LP4E's three-stage supply architecture, and RF/LO/IF pin locations are not aligned.