Analog Devices Inc. EV1HMC1096LP3

Overview

EV1HMC1096LP3 from Analog Devices is an evaluation board for the HMC1096LP3E GaAs pHEMT MMIC x2 active frequency multiplier, operating from 3.8–5.6 GHz output with +12 dBm typical output power, +5 V single supply, and 16-lead 3×3 mm SMT package. It enables LO multiplier chain validation in point-to-point radio and VSAT systems.

For engineers reviewing the EV1HMC1096LP3 datasheet, EV1HMC1096LP3 pinout, EV1HMC1096LP3 application, or EV1HMC1096LP3 equivalent, this board provides verified RF layout, bias network implementation (R1=2.7 kΩ, R2=3.3 kΩ), SMA connectors (J1/J2), and DC pins (J5–J9) for rapid characterization of the HMC1096LP3E multiplier under real-world thermal and impedance conditions.

Technical Context

The EV1HMC1096LP3 is a dedicated evaluation PCB designed exclusively for the HMC1096LP3E frequency multiplier IC. It implements full RF matching (50 Ω signal lines), grounded exposed paddle via multiple vias, and decoupling (100 pF + 10 nF per VDD), per Analog Devices' recommended layout practices for GaAs MMICs.

It supports biasing of VG1/VG2 through external resistors (R1/R2), provides DC-coupled RF I/O via SMA connectors, and uses Rogers 4350 or Arlon 25FR substrate to maintain phase stability and minimize loss across 3.8–5.6 GHz - critical for low-phase-noise LO generation in microwave radios.

Key Specifications

Availability

EV1HMC1096LP3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for microwave radio development, LO chain prototyping, and phase-noise-sensitive test instrumentation requiring stable component supply and traceable evaluation hardware.

Supply support for EV1HMC1096LP3 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 leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and RF IC design, serving communications, industrial, automotive, and aerospace markets with precision signal processing solutions.

The EV1HMC1096LP3 belongs to Analog Devices' Hittite Microwave evaluation board product line, engineered specifically to accelerate deployment of GaAs pHEMT MMIC multipliers in high-frequency wireless infrastructure and defense applications.

FAQ

What is the purpose of the EV1HMC1096LP3 evaluation board?

The EV1HMC1096LP3 evaluation board is a fully assembled, RF-optimized PCB designed to characterize and validate the HMC1096LP3E x2 active frequency multiplier. It provides SMA interfaces, proper biasing (via R1/R2), decoupling, and grounding per Analog Devices' layout guidelines - enabling immediate measurement of output power, Fo/3Fo isolation, and phase noise without custom RF design effort. The EV1HMC1096LP3 is not a standalone functional module but a test vehicle for the HMC1096LP3E IC.

Does the EV1HMC1096LP3 include the HMC1096LP3E IC?

Yes, the EV1HMC1096LP3 includes one mounted HMC1096LP3E IC (U1) as specified in the Bill of Materials. The board is shipped with the device soldered in place, ready for RF and DC testing. No additional assembly or component placement is required to operate the EV1HMC1096LP3 - users only need to apply +5 V DC and input RF drive at J1 to measure output at J2.

What substrate material is used on the EV1HMC1096LP3 PCB?

The EV1HMC1096LP3 uses either Rogers 4350 or Arlon 25FR high-frequency laminate, as confirmed in the official materials list. This choice ensures consistent dielectric constant (Dk ≈ 3.48–3.6), low dissipation factor (Df < 0.0037), and thermal stability - essential for maintaining 50 Ω impedance integrity and minimizing insertion loss across the 3.8–5.6 GHz band during HMC1096LP3E evaluation.

Can the EV1HMC1096LP3 be used for production-level LO generation?

No - the EV1HMC1096LP3 is strictly an evaluation platform, not a production-ready module. It lacks shielding, environmental sealing, and long-term reliability qualification. While it demonstrates the HMC1096LP3E's performance (e.g., +12 dBm output, −142 dBc/Hz phase noise @ 10 kHz), production designs must integrate the HMC1096LP3E into custom PCBs meeting mechanical, thermal, and EMI requirements. The EV1HMC1096LP3 serves only for lab validation and reference design verification.

What are the key external components needed to operate the EV1HMC1096LP3?

To operate the EV1HMC1096LP3, users must supply: (1) +5 V DC via J5–J9 pins (with current capability ≥150 mA), (2) RF input signal (−2 to +5 dBm) at J1, and (3) RF measurement equipment at J2. No additional external components are required - all bias resistors (R1/R2), decoupling capacitors (C1–C6), and grounding vias are pre-installed. The EV1HMC1096LP3 is fully populated and ready for immediate RF characterization.