Analog Devices Inc. EVAL01-HMC1042LC4

Overview

EVAL01-HMC1042LC4 from Hittite Microwave Corporation is an evaluation PCB designed specifically for the HMC1042LC4 GaAs MMIC I/Q mixer, supporting RF/LO operation from 15–33.5 GHz and IF bandwidth DC–3.5 GHz. It enables rapid characterization of image rejection (up to 30 dBc), LO-to-RF isolation (40 dB), and high input IP3 (+22 dBm) in surface-mount test configurations for microwave transceivers.

For engineers reviewing the EVAL01-HMC1042LC4 datasheet, EVAL01-HMC1042LC4 pinout, EVAL01-HMC1042LC4 application, or EVAL01-HMC1042LC4 equivalent, this board provides verified RF layout practices-including Rogers 4350 substrate, SMA connectors (J1–J4), and ground-via optimized grounding-for repeatable I/Q mixer evaluation under USB/LSB upconversion and image-reject downconversion modes.

Technical Context

The EVAL01-HMC1042LC4 is a dedicated evaluation platform for the HMC1042LC4, a monolithic GaAs MMIC I/Q mixer integrating two double-balanced mixer cells and an on-die 90° hybrid. It supports both Image Reject Mixer (IRM) and Single Sideband Upconverter (SSBU) configurations without external wire bonding.

Designed for RF frequencies from 15–33.5 GHz and IF from DC–3.5 GHz, the board implements proper 50 Ω RF routing, DC-coupled IF ports (IF1/IF2), AC-coupled RF/LO paths, and mandatory grounding of all 24-package leads plus the exposed paddle-per HMC1042LC4's absolute maximum ratings and thermal resistance (198 °C/W).

Key Specifications

Availability

EVAL01-HMC1042LC4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for Ka-band radio development, microwave test equipment validation, and defense-grade sensor prototyping requiring stable component supply and traceable evaluation hardware.

Supply support for EVAL01-HMC1042LC4 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

Hittite Microwave Corporation (acquired by Analog Devices in 2014) specialized in high-frequency RFICs and MMICs for wireless infrastructure, defense, and test instrumentation.

The EVAL01-HMC1042LC4 belongs to Hittite's evaluation board product line, engineered to accelerate design-in of their GaAs I/Q mixers by providing production-ready RF layout, calibrated measurement interfaces, and thermal-aware grounding per the HMC1042LC4's 198 °C/W R_TH.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the EVAL01-HMC1042LC4?

The EVAL01-HMC1042LC4 is an evaluation PCB purpose-built for the HMC1042LC4 GaAs MMIC I/Q mixer. It enables engineers to characterize image rejection, sideband suppression, conversion gain, and isolation performance across 15–33.5 GHz RF/LO and DC–3.5 GHz IF bands using standardized SMA interfaces and thermally robust Rogers 4350 substrate. The board validates real-world implementation of the HMC1042LC4 in both IRM and SSBU modes.

Does the EVAL01-HMC1042LC4 include the HMC1042LC4 device?

Yes, the EVAL01-HMC1042LC4 evaluation PCB includes one mounted HMC1042LC4 IC (U1) as specified in the Bill of Materials. The board ships fully assembled with SMA connectors (J1–J4), proper RF grounding vias, and layout optimized for minimal parasitic coupling-ensuring accurate measurement of the HMC1042LC4's 30 dBc image rejection and +22 dBm input IP3 without additional assembly.

What RF substrate and connector types are used on the EVAL01-HMC1042LC4?

The EVAL01-HMC1042LC4 uses Rogers 4350 dielectric substrate (ε_r ≈ 3.48, low loss at Ka-band) and features four SMA connectors: J1 and J2 are SRI-brand RF ports; J3 and J4 are Johnson-brand IF/LO ports. All signal traces maintain 50 Ω impedance, and the HMC1042LC4's 24-lead package ground leads plus exposed paddle are soldered directly to the RF ground plane via multiple thermal vias-matching the HMC1042LC4's grounding requirements.

Can the EVAL01-HMC1042LC4 be used for both upconversion and downconversion?

Yes, the EVAL01-HMC1042LC4 supports both upconversion (SSBU mode) and downconversion (IRM mode) of the HMC1042LC4. Its layout accommodates external IF 90° hybrid insertion for optimal sideband rejection and includes DC-coupled IF1/IF2 ports and AC-coupled RF/LO paths-enabling full characterization of USB/LSB performance, amplitude/phase balance (±0.5 dB / ±2.5°), and temperature-stable operation from –40°C to +85°C as specified for the HMC1042LC4.

Is thermal management addressed on the EVAL01-HMC1042LC4 board?

Yes, thermal management is integral to the EVAL01-HMC1042LC4 design. The HMC1042LC4's exposed ground paddle and all 24 package leads are soldered to the PCB's solid RF ground plane using multiple thermal vias. This implements the required junction-to-package-bottom thermal resistance (198 °C/W) and supports continuous dissipation up to 328 mW at 85°C-ensuring stable HMC1042LC4 operation during extended RF testing at +15 dBm LO drive and high IF output levels.