Analog Devices Inc. EV1HMC641ALC4

Overview

The EV1HMC641ALC4 from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a GaAs pHEMT SP4T non-reflective MMIC switch in a 4×4 mm ceramic SMT package, operating from DC to 20 GHz. It delivers 2.1 dB typical insertion loss and 42 dB isolation at 12 GHz, with on-chip 50 Ω terminations and integrated 2:4 TTL decoder for two-control-line operation. It serves as a high-frequency signal path selector in microwave radio front-ends.

For engineers reviewing the EV1HMC641ALC4 datasheet, EV1HMC641ALC4 pinout, EV1HMC641ALC4 application, or EV1HMC641ALC4 equivalent, key selection criteria include broadband DC–20 GHz performance, -5 V logic compatibility, non-reflective architecture, low DC current consumption, and thermal robustness up to +85 °C ambient.

Technical Context

The EV1HMC641ALC4 implements a monolithic GaAs pHEMT switch topology with internal binary decoder, reducing control lines from four to two (CTLA, CTLB). Its non-reflective design terminates all off-state RF ports on-die to 50 Ω, minimizing system-level mismatch and enabling stable impedance across switching states.

It operates with Vss = -5 V ±10%, accepts TTL/CMOS-compatible control voltages (High: -5 V to -3.8 V; Low: -2.5 V to 0 V), and achieves 30 ns rise/fall time and 100 ns turn-on/turn-off delay across DC–20 GHz. Thermal resistance is 201 °C/W (insertion path) and 321 °C/W (terminated path).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 24-lead 4×4 mm ceramic surface-mount package with exposed ground paddle; alumina body, gold-over-nickel plating; MSL Level 3; marked "H641A" with 4-digit lot code.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar SP4T RF switch applications.

Compared with HMC641LC4 and QM11036, the EV1HMC641ALC4 offers superior isolation (42 dB vs. ≤38 dB) and hermetic ceramic packaging for harsh environments, while requiring -5 V bias - making it optimal for legacy microwave infrastructure where signal integrity and reliability dominate over logic voltage convenience.

Availability

The EV1HMC641ALC4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for microwave radio transceivers, VSAT outdoor units, and test instrumentation requiring stable component supply, long-term obsolescence mitigation, and traceable sourcing from authorized channels.

Supply support for EV1HMC641ALC4 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, inheriting its high-frequency RFIC portfolio focused on microwave, millimeter-wave, and defense-grade components.

The EV1HMC641ALC4 belongs to Hittite's legacy GaAs MMIC switch product line, engineered specifically for broadband, high-isolation, low-distortion RF signal routing in telecom infrastructure and aerospace systems.

FAQ

What is the absolute maximum input power rating for the EV1HMC641ALC4?

The EV1HMC641ALC4 has an absolute maximum input power of +26.5 dBm on the insertion loss path and +23 dBm on terminated paths. These limits ensure safe operation without permanent degradation under transient overdrive conditions, consistent with its 150 °C channel temperature rating and GaAs pHEMT process robustness.

Does the EV1HMC641ALC4 require external termination resistors?

No, the EV1HMC641ALC4 does not require external termination resistors. Its non-reflective architecture integrates on-die 50 Ω terminations for all isolated RF ports (RF1–RF4 when not selected), maintaining system impedance match without added components or board space.

Can the EV1HMC641ALC4 operate with positive control voltages like 0/+3.3 V?

No, the EV1HMC641ALC4 requires negative control logic: CTLA and CTLB accept -5 V to -3.8 V for HIGH and -2.5 V to 0 V for LOW. It is incompatible with standard 0/+3.3 V or 0/+5 V CMOS logic without level-shifting circuitry.

What is the recommended PCB grounding practice for the EV1HMC641ALC4?

For optimal RF and thermal performance, all 11 ground pins (2,4,7,9,10,12,17,19,21,22,24) and the exposed ground paddle must be soldered directly to a solid, low-inductance RF ground plane using multiple thermal vias - matching the evaluation board layout documented in Hittite's EVAL01-HMC641ALC4 reference design.

Is the EV1HMC641ALC4 RoHS compliant and MSL-rated?

Yes, the EV1HMC641ALC4 is RoHS compliant and rated MSL Level 3 (floor life 168 hours at ≤30 °C / 60% RH), with a peak reflow temperature of 260 °C - fully compatible with standard lead-free assembly processes per J-STD-020.