Analog Devices Inc. EVAL01-HMC1097LP4E

Overview

EVAL01-HMC1097LP4E from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is an evaluation PCB designed to characterize and validate the HMC1097LP4E wideband direct quadrature modulator IC - a 100–6000 MHz RFIC used for zero-IF/low-IF digital modulation in cellular, WiMAX, and ISM transceivers. It features a 4×4 mm QFN package, single-ended 50 Ω RF output, -6 to +6 dBm LO drive, and +5 V supply operation.

For engineers reviewing the EVAL01-HMC1097LP4E datasheet, EVAL01-HMC1097LP4E pinout, EVAL01-HMC1097LP4E application, or EVAL01-HMC1097LP4E equivalent, this board enables rapid prototyping of high-linearity RF upconversion circuits with calibrated carrier/sideband suppression, noise floor validation, and ACPR testing per W-CDMA and LTE standards.

Technical Context

The EVAL01-HMC1097LP4E implements a complete reference design for the HMC1097LP4E modulator, including matched 50 Ω RF and LO signal paths, SMA connectors (J1–J7), DC power interface (J8–J10), and optimized decoupling (C1–C3, C8–C9, C10–C11). Its Rogers 4350 substrate ensures stable RF performance across 100 MHz–6 GHz.

It supports both differential and single-ended LO drive modes, accommodates baseband I/Q inputs with 0.4–0.5 V DC bias and 1.3 V_pp differential AC swing, and enables carrier feedthrough calibration via external offset adjustment on IP/IN/QP/QN pins - all while maintaining thermal integrity via the exposed ground paddle soldered to PCB ground.

Key Specifications

Availability

EVAL01-HMC1097LP4E is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for RF front-end development, 5G/WiMAX baseband-to-RF validation, W-CDMA ACPR testing, and high-linearity transmitter characterization requiring stable component supply and traceable evaluation hardware.

Supply support for EVAL01-HMC1097LP4E 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 and maintains its high-frequency RFIC portfolio, including broadband modulators, demodulators, and microwave MMICs for defense, communications, and test equipment markets.

The EVAL01-HMC1097LP4E belongs to Analog Devices' legacy Hittite evaluation platform family, engineered specifically to accelerate design-in of the HMC1097LP4E modulator in wireless infrastructure, point-to-point radios, and spectrum-analyzing instrumentation.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the EVAL01-HMC1097LP4E evaluation board?

The EVAL01-HMC1097LP4E evaluation board is a fully assembled, ready-to-use PCB designed to demonstrate and validate the performance of the HMC1097LP4E direct quadrature modulator IC. It provides standardized SMA interfaces for RF, LO, and baseband signals, proper power delivery, and thermal grounding - enabling engineers to measure key metrics such as carrier feedthrough, sideband suppression, OIP3, and ACPR without custom layout effort. The EVAL01-HMC1097LP4E directly supports characterization per W-CDMA and LTE test conditions.

Does the EVAL01-HMC1097LP4E support both differential and single-ended LO drive for the HMC1097LP4E?

Yes, the EVAL01-HMC1097LP4E supports both configurations. Its LO input is routed to the LON pin of the HMC1097LP4E with a 50 Ω termination option for single-ended drive; for differential operation, external circuitry must be added to drive both LOP and LON, as the board's default layout terminates LOP to ground. The board's schematic and layout follow Hittite's recommended interface for -6 to +6 dBm LO input power, matching the HMC1097LP4E's specified operating range.

What RF substrate and impedance control does the EVAL01-HMC1097LP4E use?

The EVAL01-HMC1097LP4E uses Rogers 4350B laminate - a low-loss, high-frequency PCB material with stable dielectric constant (ε_r ≈ 3.48) and low dispersion up to 6 GHz. All critical RF traces (RFOUT, LO, and baseband routing) are impedance-controlled at 50 Ω, verified through stack-up modeling and measurement. The board includes dedicated via fences and multi-layer ground planes to minimize coupling and maintain isolation between I/Q paths and LO/RF domains - essential for accurate sideband suppression measurement on the HMC1097LP4E.

How is carrier feedthrough calibrated using the EVAL01-HMC1097LP4E?

Carrier feedthrough calibration on the EVAL01-HMC1097LP4E is performed by applying small DC offset voltages (typically < ±15 mV) to the HMC1097LP4E's differential baseband inputs (IP/IN and QP/QN) using external trimmers or precision DACs. The board provides test points and pad access for these pins, allowing iterative adjustment while monitoring RF output on a spectrum analyzer. Calibration is frequency- and temperature-dependent; the EVAL01-HMC1097LP4E's thermal design supports stable measurements from -40°C to +85°C per the HMC1097LP4E's operating spec.

Is the EVAL01-HMC1097LP4E compatible with standard lab equipment?

Yes - the EVAL01-HMC1097LP4E integrates industry-standard SMA connectors for RFOUT, LOIN, and baseband I/Q (via balun or differential probe adapters), plus a Molex Micro-Fit 3.0 connector for +5 V DC power. It is fully compatible with vector signal generators, spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, and power supplies used in RF labs. No special firmware, drivers, or host software is required; the HMC1097LP4E operates autonomously once powered and biased, making the EVAL01-HMC1097LP4E ideal for bench-level verification of modulator linearity, noise floor, and spectral purity.