Analog Devices Inc. EV1HMC1131LC4

Overview

EV1HMC1131LC4 from Analog Devices is an evaluation board designed to characterize and validate the HMC1131LC4 GaAs pHEMT MMIC driver amplifier operating from 24 GHz to 35 GHz. It supports full RF performance measurement including 22 dB gain (24–27 GHz), 24 dBm P1dB, 35 dBm IP3, and 25 dBm PSAT under 5 V/225 mA bias, with integrated 50 Ω K-connector interfaces and optimized bypassing for stable high-frequency operation in point-to-point radio applications.

For engineers reviewing the EV1HMC1131LC4 datasheet, EV1HMC1131LC4 pinout, EV1HMC1131LC4 application, or EV1HMC1131LC4 equivalent, this evaluation board enables rapid prototyping and RF performance validation of the HMC1131LC4 amplifier across its full 24–35 GHz bandwidth with calibrated thru-path calibration capability and thermally robust Rogers 4350 or Arlon 25FR PCB material.

Technical Context

The EV1HMC1131LC4 implements a fully populated, RF-optimized layout for the HMC1131LC4 24-lead LCC amplifier, featuring matched 50 Ω microstrip traces to J1/J2 K-connectors, dedicated DC bias lines with three-tier capacitor filtering (100 pF, 0.01 µF, 4.7 µF) per VDD and VGG rail, and direct-exposed-pad grounding via multiple thermal vias. Its design follows Analog Devices' recommended bias sequencing-ground first, then gate bias at −2 V, followed by drain supply ramp-to ensure safe MMIC startup and prevent latch-up.

It integrates six 100 pF (0402), six 0.01 µF (0603), and six 4.7 µF tantalum capacitors (Case A), plus four DC pins (J3/J4) for external bias control, enabling flexible characterization of gain, linearity, and compression versus VGG/VDD tuning. The board uses the 600-01568-00-1 mechanical outline with precise RF port placement aligned to the HMC1131LC4's RFIN/RFOUT pin locations.

Key Specifications

Availability

EV1HMC1131LC4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for millimeter-wave radio development, SATCOM transceiver validation, and VSAT link budget testing requiring stable component supply, pre-validated RF layout, and traceable evaluation hardware.

Supply support for EV1HMC1131LC4 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 ICs, serving communications, industrial, and aerospace markets with precision signal chain solutions.

The EV1HMC1131LC4 belongs to Analog Devices' microwave evaluation platform family, engineered specifically to accelerate time-to-test for GaAs and GaN MMIC amplifiers in E-band and Ka-band infrastructure applications.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the EV1HMC1131LC4?

The EV1HMC1131LC4 is an evaluation board purpose-built to test and validate the HMC1131LC4 GaAs pHEMT MMIC driver amplifier. It provides calibrated 50 Ω RF paths, full bias conditioning, and thermal management to enable accurate measurement of gain, P1dB, IP3, and PSAT across 24–35 GHz-without requiring custom PCB design. The EV1HMC1131LC4 delivers turnkey characterization capability for system integrators developing point-to-point radios or SATCOM terminals.

Does the EV1HMC1131LC4 include the HMC1131LC4 amplifier IC?

Yes, the EV1HMC1131LC4 includes one mounted HMC1131LC4 amplifier IC in its 24-lead ceramic LCC package (E-24-1). As confirmed in Table 5 of the HMC1131 Rev. C datasheet, U1 on the 600-01568-00-1 board is explicitly designated as "HMC1131LC4" from Analog Devices, making the EV1HMC1131LC4 a complete, ready-to-use evaluation platform-not just a bare PCB.

What RF connectors are used on the EV1HMC1131LC4?

The EV1HMC1131LC4 uses two K-type coaxial connectors (J1 and J2) for RF input and output, as specified in Table 5 of the HMC1131 Rev. C datasheet. These are precision 50 Ω connectors rated for operation up to 40 GHz, ensuring minimal mismatch and insertion loss when measuring the HMC1131LC4's broadband 24–35 GHz performance. No adapters or additional hardware are needed for vector network analyzer connection.

Can the EV1HMC1131LC4 be used for production-level testing?

Yes-the EV1HMC1131LC4 is designed for both engineering validation and production test environments. Its Rogers 4350 or Arlon 25FR substrate, controlled-impedance routing, and repeatable THRU calibration path support traceable, Gage R&R-capable measurements. The board's documented bias sequence, thermal via pattern, and capacitor selection align with Analog Devices' application guidance in the HMC1131 datasheet, making EV1HMC1131LC4 suitable for incoming inspection and final RF functional test of HMC1131LC4-based modules.

How is DC bias applied to the HMC1131LC4 on the EV1HMC1131LC4 board?

DC bias is applied via four dedicated VDD pins (VDD1–VDD4) and two gate bias pins (VGG1, VGG2), accessible through DC pins J3 and J4. Each rail features triple-stage decoupling: 100 pF (0402), 0.01 µF (0603), and 4.7 µF (tantalum) capacitors. This configuration replicates the exact bias network shown in Figure 33 of the HMC1131 Rev. C datasheet, ensuring stable operation at 5 V/225 mA while suppressing supply noise across RF frequencies-critical for measuring the HMC1131LC4's 35 dBm IP3 and low IM3 distortion.