Analog Devices Inc. EVAL01-HMC963LC4

Overview

EVAL01-HMC963LC4 from Analog Devices is an evaluation PCB designed to characterize the HMC963LC4 GaAs pHEMT MMIC low-noise amplifier operating from 6–26.5 GHz, delivering 22 dB gain, 2.5 dB noise figure, +10 dBm P1dB output power, and 50 Ω matched I/Os. It supports RF design validation for microwave radios and test instrumentation.

For engineers reviewing the EVAL01-HMC963LC4 datasheet, EVAL01-HMC963LC4 pinout, EVAL01-HMC963LC4 application, or EVAL01-HMC963LC4 equivalent, this board enables rapid prototyping of high-frequency LNA circuits with calibrated 2.92 mm RF connectors, DC bias access, and thermally optimized Rogers 4350 layout.

Technical Context

The EVAL01-HMC963LC4 is a dedicated evaluation platform for the HMC963LC4 LNA, featuring two 2.92 mm RF connectors (J1, J2) for input/output signal routing, six DC pins (J3–J8) for independent supply and bias control, and three capacitor value groups (100 pF, 1000 pF, 2.2 µF) for broadband decoupling across 6–26.5 GHz.

Its PCB uses Rogers 4350 or Arlon 25FR substrate with controlled 50 Ω microstrip traces, direct ground via stitching to the bottom plane, and thermal management provisions for the HMC963LC4's exposed paddle-ensuring accurate small-signal and large-signal characterization under +3.5 V / 45 mA operation.

Key Specifications

Availability

EVAL01-HMC963LC4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for microwave radio development, RF test instrumentation calibration, and military communications system prototyping requiring stable component supply and traceable evaluation hardware.

Supply support for EVAL01-HMC963LC4 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 precision instrumentation, communications, and defense markets since 1965.

The EVAL01-HMC963LC4 belongs to Analog Devices' RF evaluation platform product line, engineered specifically to accelerate design-in and performance validation of their GaAs MMIC amplifiers in demanding microwave applications.

FAQ

What is the primary purpose of the EVAL01-HMC963LC4 evaluation board?

The EVAL01-HMC963LC4 evaluation board is a dedicated test platform for the HMC963LC4 GaAs pHEMT low-noise amplifier. It provides calibrated 2.92 mm RF interfaces, DC bias access, and optimized RF layout to enable accurate S-parameter, noise figure, and gain compression measurements across 6–26.5 GHz without custom PCB development.

Does the EVAL01-HMC963LC4 support bias sequencing or voltage regulation?

No-the EVAL01-HMC963LC4 does not include onboard regulators or sequencing circuitry. It provides six bare DC pins (J3–J8) for external supply connection to the HMC963LC4's Vdd1, Vdd2, Vdd3, and ground terminals. Users must supply stable +3.5 V with appropriate current capability and external decoupling per the HMC963LC4 datasheet requirements.

Can the EVAL01-HMC963LC4 be used for large-signal testing such as IP3 or P1dB?

Yes-the EVAL01-HMC963LC4 supports large-signal characterization including P1dB and output IP3. Its 2.92 mm connectors maintain integrity up to 40 GHz, and the board's 50 Ω impedance control, low-inductance grounding, and multi-value decoupling network preserve linearity and stability during compression and intermodulation testing.

Is thermal management integrated into the EVAL01-HMC963LC4 design?

Yes-the EVAL01-HMC963LC4 includes thermal design features: the HMC963LC4's exposed paddle is soldered directly to the top copper layer, which connects via multiple vias to a solid bottom ground plane. The board documentation specifies mounting on an external heat sink to manage dissipation under continuous +3.5 V / 45 mA operation.

What PCB material is used for the EVAL01-HMC963LC4 and why is it specified?

The EVAL01-HMC963LC4 uses Rogers 4350 or Arlon 25FR substrate-both low-loss, high-frequency laminates with tightly controlled dielectric constant (ε_r ≈ 3.66) and low dispersion. This ensures consistent 50 Ω impedance, minimal phase distortion, and repeatable RF performance from 6–26.5 GHz, critical for valid HMC963LC4 characterization.