Analog Devices Inc. HMC168C8

Overview

HMC168C8 from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a GaAs MMIC double-balanced mixer in a non-hermetic ceramic SMT package, operating from 4.5–8 GHz RF/LO and DC–2 GHz IF, with 8.2 dB typical conversion loss, 34 dB LO-to-RF/IF isolation, and +16 dBm input IP3 - used in microwave point-to-point radios and 5.8 GHz ISM band transceivers.

For engineers reviewing the HMC168C8 datasheet, HMC168C8 pinout, HMC168C8 application, or HMC168C8 equivalent, key selection criteria include RF/LO frequency coverage, passive diode-balun architecture, no DC bias requirement, surface-mount compatibility, and high linearity for up/downconversion in compact RF front-ends.

Technical Context

The HMC168C8 is a passive diode/balun-based double-balanced mixer with no DC bias required, enabling simplified RF system integration. Its GaAs MMIC implementation delivers high unit-to-unit consistency and exceptional port balance.

It supports bidirectional operation as upconverter, downconverter, or biphase modulator, with noise figure equal to conversion loss and RF/IF ports covering DC–2 GHz - critical for wideband IF processing in microwave links.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 8-lead ceramic surface-mount package (non-hermetic), white alumina body, gold-plated copper leads and ground paddle; requires all ground leads and paddle soldered to PCB RF ground per datasheet mechanical note.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar double-balanced mixer applications.

Compared with HMC1048LC3 and QPC1006, the HMC168C8 offers the optimal balance of low conversion loss, zero-bias operation, and compact size for cost-sensitive, space-constrained 4.5–8 GHz microwave radios - making it preferred where simplicity, repeatability, and ISM-band efficiency are prioritized over ultra-wideband or high-power operation.

Availability

HMC168C8 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for microwave point-to-point radios, 5.8 GHz ISM band circuits, and radar transceivers requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence mitigation.

Supply support for HMC168C8 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 communications, industrial, and aerospace markets with precision signal processing solutions.

The HMC168C8 belongs to Analog Devices' legacy Hittite Microwave RF mixer product line, engineered specifically for high-isolation, low-loss, bias-free microwave up/downconversion in compact SMT form factors.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for the HMC168C8?

The HMC168C8 operates from –55 °C to +85 °C, meeting industrial and outdoor deployment requirements. Its ceramic SMT package and GaAs MMIC construction ensure stable RF performance across this full range without derating. Storage temperature extends to –65 °C to +150 °C, supporting extended shelf life and reflow soldering processes. The HMC168C8 datasheet specifies all electrical parameters at +25 °C, but characterization data confirms consistent conversion loss and isolation behavior across the operational envelope.

Does the HMC168C8 require DC bias voltage or current?

No, the HMC168C8 is a passive diode/balun mixer and requires no DC bias - eliminating external bias networks, decoupling components, and associated layout complexity. This feature directly enables simpler, more reliable RF front-ends in battery-powered or thermally constrained applications. All performance specifications, including conversion loss and IP3, are validated at zero bias. The HMC168C8 achieves this through its GaAs MMIC balun-integrated architecture, distinguishing it from active mixer alternatives.

What is the recommended LO drive level for optimal HMC168C8 performance?

The HMC168C8 is characterized at +10 dBm LO drive, delivering 8.2 dB typical conversion loss and 34 dB LO-to-RF isolation. Performance remains stable from +8 to +15 dBm; below +8 dBm, conversion loss increases and IP3 degrades. Maximum rated LO drive is +27 dBm. For most microwave radio designs, +10 dBm provides the best trade-off between linearity, loss, and LO source power consumption. The HMC168C8 datasheet includes conversion loss vs. LO power curves confirming this optimum.

Can the HMC168C8 be used for both upconversion and downconversion?

Yes, the HMC168C8 is bidirectional and functions identically as an upconverter (IF→RF) or downconverter (RF→IF) due to its symmetric double-balanced topology. Its DC–2 GHz IF port supports baseband I/Q modulation schemes, while the 4.5–8 GHz RF/LO ports handle carrier translation in either direction. System-level validation in microwave radios confirms consistent conversion loss and isolation in both modes. The HMC168C8's passive architecture inherently enables this flexibility without configuration changes.

Is there an evaluation board available for the HMC168C8?

Yes, Hittite (now Analog Devices) provides Evaluation PCB 107214 for the HMC168C8, featuring SMA connectors on RF/LO/IF ports and Rogers 4350 substrate for accurate RF characterization. The board implements proper grounding per datasheet guidelines - including direct paddle soldering and multiple ground vias. It is available upon request from Analog Devices and supports immediate prototyping of 4.5–8 GHz mixer circuits. The HMC168C8 evaluation setup validates conversion loss, isolation, and IP3 within ±0.3 dB of datasheet values.