Analog Devices Inc. EVAL01-HMC1084LC4

Overview

EVAL01-HMC1084LC4 from Hittite Microwave Corporation is an evaluation PCB designed to characterize the HMC1084LC4 GaAs MMIC SP4T reflective switch operating from 23–30 GHz, featuring 2.8 dB typical insertion loss, 26 dB isolation, and 0/−3 V logic control. It supports rapid prototyping for microwave radio, SATCOM, and sensor systems requiring high-frequency RF path switching.

For engineers reviewing the EVAL01-HMC1084LC4 datasheet, EVAL01-HMC1084LC4 application, EVAL01-HMC1084LC4 pinout, or EVAL01-HMC1084LC4 equivalent, this board provides calibrated RF interfaces (K-connectors), integrated 1000 pF DC-blocking capacitors, and thermal management provisions aligned with the HMC1084LC4's 4×4 mm ceramic SMT package and −55°C to +85°C operating range.

Technical Context

The EVAL01-HMC1084LC4 is a dedicated evaluation platform-not an IC or discrete component-built around the HMC1084LC4 SP4T switch. It implements a 50 Ω RF layout on Rogers 4350 or Arlon FR4 substrate, with five K-connectors (J1–J5) for RFIN, RF1–RF4, and grounded RF paths routed via controlled-impedance traces.

All ground leads and the exposed paddle of the HMC1084LC4 are connected to a continuous RF ground plane using multiple vias; the board includes thermal relief provisions and is intended for mounting on an external heat sink to maintain channel temperature within the HMC1084LC4's −55°C to +85°C operational limit under >27 dBm input power.

Key Specifications

Availability

EVAL01-HMC1084LC4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for microwave radio development, SATCOM terminal validation, military hybrid module testing, and Ka-band sensor system integration requiring stable component supply and repeatable RF evaluation infrastructure.

Supply support for EVAL01-HMC1084LC4 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 was a U.S.-based RF/microwave semiconductor company specializing in high-performance GaAs and SiGe MMICs, acquired by Analog Devices in 2014. Known for broadband, high-isolation switches and amplifiers up to millimeter-wave frequencies.

The EVAL01-HMC1084LC4 belongs to Hittite's evaluation board product line, purpose-built to accelerate design-in of their high-frequency switches-including the HMC1084LC4-by providing verified RF layout, thermal interface, and connectorized test access without custom PCB development.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the EVAL01-HMC1084LC4?

The EVAL01-HMC1084LC4 is an evaluation PCB designed exclusively to facilitate characterization and prototyping of the HMC1084LC4 GaAs MMIC SP4T reflective switch. It provides standardized K-connector interfaces, integrated DC blocking, proper grounding, and thermal mounting features-enabling immediate RF performance measurement without custom layout. The EVAL01-HMC1084LC4 does not contain active circuitry beyond passive routing and is not a standalone functional module.

Which RF frequency band does the EVAL01-HMC1084LC4 support?

The EVAL01-HMC1084LC4 supports the full 23–30 GHz operating range of the HMC1084LC4 switch, with RF traces and connectors engineered for minimal dispersion and consistent 50 Ω impedance across Ka-band. Its Rogers 4350 substrate and controlled-layout design ensure accurate insertion loss, isolation, and return loss measurements per the HMC1084LC4 datasheet specifications-verified at +25°C, −40°C, and +85°C.

Does the EVAL01-HMC1084LC4 require external power or bias control?

No-the EVAL01-HMC1084LC4 itself requires no external power; it is a passive evaluation platform. Control voltages (0 V / −3 V) for the HMC1084LC4 must be supplied externally to pins VC1–VC4 (pins 7, 12, 19, 24). The board includes no onboard voltage generation or level-shifting circuitry. Users must provide clean, low-noise DC bias sources compliant with the HMC1084LC4's absolute maximum ratings (±5 V, <10 µA leakage per control line).

Can the EVAL01-HMC1084LC4 be used with other Hittite switches?

No-the EVAL01-HMC1084LC4 is mechanically and electrically optimized specifically for the HMC1084LC4's 24-lead 4×4 mm ceramic package, pinout, and RF port assignments (RFIN, RF1–RF4, VC1–VC4). Its footprint, via placement, ground paddle connection, and K-connector alignment do not match other Hittite switches-even those in the same SP4T family-making it incompatible without redesign. The EVAL01-HMC1084LC4 is not a generic switch evaluation platform.

What thermal considerations apply when using the EVAL01-HMC1084LC4?

The EVAL01-HMC1084LC4 must be mounted to an external heat sink during operation above +25°C ambient or at input powers >+10 dBm, due to the HMC1084LC4's 24 °C/W channel-to-die-bottom thermal resistance and 175°C max channel temperature rating. The board's exposed ground paddle and multiple thermal vias are designed to transfer heat efficiently-but sustained operation at >27 dBm input power requires active cooling or thermal interface material to prevent derating of RF performance or reliability degradation of the EVAL01-HMC1084LC4 assembly.