Analog Devices Inc. EVAL01-HMC1063LP3

Overview

EVAL01-HMC1063LP3 from Hittite Microwave Corporation is an evaluation PCB designed specifically for the HMC1063LP3E GaAs MMIC I/Q mixer, supporting both image-reject downconversion and single-sideband upconversion in 24–28 GHz RF systems. It integrates K- and SMA connectors, uses Arlon 25FR/FR4/Rogers 4350 substrate, and enables characterization of conversion gain (−9.5 dB typ), image rejection (21 dBc), LO-to-RF isolation (42 dB), IF bandwidth (DC–3 GHz), and input IP3 (+17 dBm) under controlled RF layout conditions.

For engineers reviewing the EVAL01-HMC1063LP3 datasheet, EVAL01-HMC1063LP3 pinout, EVAL01-HMC1063LP3 application, or EVAL01-HMC1063LP3 equivalent, this board provides validated RF layout practices, connectorized test access to all ports (RFOUT, LO, IF1/IF2), thermal management guidance via ground paddle soldering, and direct correlation to HMC1063LP3E's electrical specifications across temperature and LO drive levels.

Technical Context

The EVAL01-HMC1063LP3 implements a surface-mount evaluation platform for the HMC1063LP3E - a 16-lead 3×3 mm QFN package containing two double-balanced GaAs Schottky mixer cells and an integrated 90° hybrid. It supports DC-coupled RFOUT and LO paths, differential IF inputs with DC current limits (≤3 mA), and requires external 50 Ω impedance control and multi-via ground plane interconnection.

Designed for SSB downconversion and upconversion at IF = 1000 MHz or 3000 MHz, the board validates performance metrics including amplitude/phase balance (±1 dB / ±2°), sideband rejection (up to 50 dBc), and harmonic suppression (e.g., 2×LO at −43.3 dBc @ 24 GHz), all measured with on-board K/SMA interfaces and verified per Hittite's reference layout guidelines.

Key Specifications

Availability

EVAL01-HMC1063LP3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for millimeter-wave radio development, EW/ELINT system prototyping, satellite communications link validation, and radar front-end characterization requiring stable component supply and repeatable RF measurement environments.

Supply support for EVAL01-HMC1063LP3 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, delivering broadband, high-linearity solutions for defense, aerospace, and communications infrastructure.

The EVAL01-HMC1063LP3 belongs to Hittite's evaluation board product line, engineered to accelerate time-to-test for their GaAs mixer portfolio - specifically enabling rapid verification of image rejection, conversion gain flatness, and thermal stability in 24–28 GHz systems.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the EVAL01-HMC1063LP3 evaluation board?

The EVAL01-HMC1063LP3 is a dedicated evaluation PCB for the HMC1063LP3E GaAs MMIC I/Q mixer, enabling engineers to characterize its image-reject downconversion and single-sideband upconversion performance across 24–28 GHz. It provides connectorized access to RF, LO, and differential IF ports, implements best-practice RF grounding and impedance control, and supports validation of key specs like conversion gain (−9.5 dB typ), image rejection (21 dBc), and input IP3 (+17 dBm) under real-world layout conditions. The board is essential for verifying HMC1063LP3E behavior before integration into final systems.

Which RF connectors are used on the EVAL01-HMC1063LP3 board?

The EVAL01-HMC1063LP3 features J1 and J2 as PCB-mount K-type connectors (rated 26.5–40 GHz) for RF and LO paths, and J3 and J4 as PCB-mount SMA connectors (DC–18 GHz) for IF1 and IF2 differential outputs. This hybrid connector selection allows broadband stimulus/response measurement while maintaining mechanical robustness and impedance integrity - critical for accurate characterization of the HMC1063LP3E's 24–28 GHz performance. Connector placement follows Hittite's recommended RF layout rules to minimize parasitic coupling.

Does the EVAL01-HMC1063LP3 support DC-coupled IF operation?

Yes, the EVAL01-HMC1063LP3 supports DC-coupled IF operation for the HMC1063LP3E, but with strict current limits: IF1 and IF2 pins must not source or sink more than 3 mA DC current to avoid non-function or permanent damage. For AC-coupled applications above ~100 kHz, external DC-blocking capacitors are recommended. The board's layout preserves the HMC1063LP3E's native DC-coupled IF architecture while providing design flexibility for both baseband and IF-sampling use cases - directly enabling validation of the device's DC–3 GHz IF bandwidth specification.

What PCB substrate options are supported for the EVAL01-HMC1063LP3?

The EVAL01-HMC1063LP3 is fabricated using Arlon 25FR, standard FR4, or Rogers 4350 substrates - all qualified for use with the HMC1063LP3E. Arlon 25FR offers enhanced thermal stability and low moisture absorption; Rogers 4350 provides superior high-frequency dielectric consistency (ε_r ≈ 3.48) and loss tangent; FR4 serves as a cost-effective option for preliminary testing. Substrate choice directly impacts insertion loss, phase matching, and thermal dissipation - all critical for achieving the HMC1063LP3E's specified amplitude/phase balance (±1 dB / ±2°) and image rejection (21 dBc) across temperature.

How is grounding implemented on the EVAL01-HMC1063LP3 to ensure optimal HMC1063LP3E performance?

The EVAL01-HMC1063LP3 implements a rigorous grounding scheme: the exposed ground paddle and nine N/C pins (1, 5, 6, 8, 9, 12, 13, 15, 16) must be soldered to a solid RF/DC ground plane, with multiple vias connecting top and bottom layers. This minimizes ground inductance and ensures stable biasing for the HMC1063LP3E's GaAs MMIC core. Proper grounding is mandatory to achieve the device's rated LO-to-RF isolation (42 dB), LO-to-IF isolation (40 dB), and thermal resistance (164 °C/W), as confirmed in Hittite's application notes and electrical test data.