Analog Devices Inc. EV1HMC6789BLC5A

Overview

HMC6789BLC5A from Analog Devices is a GaAs MMIC I/Q downconverter operating in the 37–44 GHz RF band, delivering 14 dB small-signal conversion gain, 25 dBc image rejection, and −1 dBm input third-order intercept (IP3) with DC–4 GHz IF output capability. It integrates an LNA-driven I/Q mixer topology with internal x2 LO multiplier and requires an external 90° hybrid for sideband selection-enabling compact, surface-mount single-sideband downconversion in millimeter-wave radios and radar front-ends.

For engineers reviewing the HMC6789BLC5A datasheet, HMC6789BLC5A pinout, HMC6789BLC5A application, or HMC6789BLC5A equivalent, key selection criteria include its 37–44 GHz RF bandwidth, 16.5–24 GHz LO range, 12-terminal ceramic LCC package, and performance-critical parameters such as amplitude/phase balance (±1.5 dB / −18°), noise figure (3.5 dB), and supply current requirements (150 mA total LO bias, 75 mA RF bias).

Technical Context

The HMC6789BLC5A implements a monolithic I/Q downconversion architecture where an integrated low-noise amplifier drives dual balanced mixers, while a built-in x2 LO multiplier accepts 16.5–24 GHz input and generates the required 33–48 GHz local oscillator signal for 37–44 GHz RF translation. Its design eliminates wire bonding and supports upper or lower sideband selection via external 90° hybrid at IF ports.

Operation requires four independent bias supplies: VDLO1/VDLO2 (3 V each) for LO multiplier stages, VDRF1/VDRF2 (3 V each) for RF LNA and mixer driver, and VGLO (−2 to 0 V) to set LO quiescent current. All IF and RF ports are ac-coupled and 50 Ω matched; pins 1, 4, 12, and 15 are no-connect but must be grounded externally per measurement conditions.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

12-terminal, 5 mm × 5 mm ceramic leadless chip carrier (LCC) package with exposed ground paddle; RoHS compliant; MSL3 rated (260 °C peak reflow); white alumina body with gold-over-nickel finish; top marking "H6789B" + 4-digit lot code.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with HMC6789BLC5 (SnPb) and HMC1040LP5E (wider band, lower gain), the HMC6789BLC5A offers the best combination of E-band-specific conversion gain, image rejection, and RoHS-compliant manufacturability for high-volume mmWave radio production.

Availability

HMC6789BLC5A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for point-to-point radios, military radar/EW receivers, and satellite communications systems requiring stable component supply, controlled thermal performance, and repeatable mmWave RF behavior.

Supply support for HMC6789BLC5A 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, defense, instrumentation, and industrial markets with precision signal processing solutions.

The HMC6789BLC5A belongs to Analog Devices' Hittite Microwave MMIC product line, engineered specifically for millimeter-wave infrastructure and defense applications demanding high integration, broadband performance, and ruggedized packaging.

FAQ

What is the recommended LO drive level for optimal performance of the HMC6789BLC5A?

The HMC6789BLC5A specifies a recommended LO drive range of −3 dBm to +6 dBm at the LOIN pin. At +3 dBm, typical performance includes 14 dB conversion gain, 25 dBc image rejection, and 3.5 dB noise figure. Drive levels below −3 dBm reduce conversion gain and degrade image rejection; above +6 dBm risks compression and increased LO leakage. The internal x2 multiplier ensures consistent LO frequency generation across this range.

Does the HMC6789BLC5A require an external 90° hybrid, and why?

Yes, the HMC6789BLC5A requires an external 90° hybrid at its IF1/IF2 ports to select upper or lower sideband operation. The device itself provides quadrature IF outputs but does not integrate the hybrid; external implementation allows designers to choose hybrid type (lumped, stripline, or waveguide) optimized for IF frequency, bandwidth, and loss-ensuring flexibility in system-level sideband suppression and calibration.

How is bias configured for the LO multiplier section of the HMC6789BLC5A?

Bias for the LO multiplier is configured using three dedicated pins: VDLO1 and VDLO2 (3 V drain supplies) and VGLO (adjustable gate voltage from −2 V to 0 V). VGLO sets the total LO quiescent current to 150 mA (IDLO1 + IDLO2) with RF turned off. This trimmable gate bias enables precise control of LO chain linearity and power consumption without altering drain voltages.

What is the function of pins 1, 4, 12, and 15 on the HMC6789BLC5A?

Pins 1, 4, 12, and 15 are no-connect (NC) terminals-internally unconnected-but must be externally grounded to RF/dc ground per the datasheet's measurement conditions. This grounding ensures consistent RF return path integrity, minimizes parasitic resonance, and maintains specified performance (e.g., 25 dBc image rejection, 37–44 GHz return loss) across temperature and frequency.

Can the HMC6789BLC5A operate with DC-coupled IF outputs, and what are the limits?

Yes, the HMC6789BLC5A supports DC-coupled IF operation on pins 2 (IF1) and 3 (IF2), enabling true zero-IF architectures. However, these pins must not source or sink more than ±3 mA of current; exceeding this limit risks device malfunction or permanent damage. For AC-coupled operation above ~100 kHz, external dc blocking capacitors are recommended to avoid bias disruption.