Analog Devices Inc. HMC231G7TR

Overview

HMC231G7TR from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a GaAs MMIC SPST switch in a hermetic SMT package, delivering >55 dB isolation at 2 GHz and >42 dB at 6 GHz, 2.0 dB typical insertion loss at 6 GHz, non-reflective RF ports, and complementary -5/0 V control logic - ideal for RF front-end switching in microwave radios and test instrumentation.

For engineers reviewing the HMC231G7TR datasheet, HMC231G7TR pinout, HMC231G7TR application, or HMC231G7TR equivalent, key selection criteria include DC–6 GHz bandwidth, 50 Ω non-reflective termination in OFF state, -40°C to +85°C operating range, and compatibility with negative-voltage logic drivers without external bias supplies.

Technical Context

The HMC231G7TR implements a GaAs MESFET-based non-reflective SPST architecture with dual control inputs (A/B) enabling complementary logic operation: A=High/B=Low activates RF1→RF2 path, while A=Low/B=High terminates both ports in 50 Ω. It requires no positive supply and draws only leakage current (≤45 µA at -7 V).

Its hermetic white alumina package (92% Al₂O₃) with Kovar leads and gold-plated terminations ensures stable RF performance across -40°C to +85°C, with thermal resistance of 94°C/W and ESD rating Class 1A (HBM). Switching speed is 3 ns rise/fall and 6 ns ON/OFF delay.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Hermetic 7-lead surface-mount package (white alumina body, Kovar leads, gold-plated terminations); dimensions per Hittite outline drawing 10-62; requires all ground leads (pins 2, 4, 7) and exposed paddle soldered to PCB RF ground plane.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar RF SPST switch applications.

Compared with HMC231G7TR, HMC231G7 offers identical RF performance in cut-tape form, while QM11036 trades isolation and termination integrity for lower IL and CMOS-compatible control - making HMC231G7TR preferable for military, space, and high-reliability test instrumentation where signal integrity and environmental robustness are critical.

Availability

HMC231G7TR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for microwave radio, radar TR modules, and automated test equipment requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and hermetically sealed RF performance.

Supply support for HMC231G7TR 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, integrating its high-frequency RF/Microwave portfolio into ADI's broader signal chain solutions.

The HMC231G7TR belongs to Hittite's GaAs MMIC SPST switch product line, engineered for high-isolation, non-reflective RF path control in defense, aerospace, and instrumentation systems demanding DC–6 GHz bandwidth and extreme environmental resilience.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for the HMC231G7TR?

The HMC231G7TR operates from -40°C to +85°C ambient temperature. Its hermetic white alumina package and Kovar lead construction ensure stable RF performance across this full industrial/military range, with thermal resistance of 94°C/W from junction to lead. This makes HMC231G7TR suitable for deployment in outdoor microwave radios and airborne radar systems where thermal cycling is severe.

Does the HMC231G7TR require an external bias supply?

No, the HMC231G7TR requires no external bias supply. It operates solely from complementary -5 V / 0 V control voltages applied to pins A and B, drawing only leakage current (≤45 µA at -7 V). This eliminates the need for dedicated positive or negative bias rails, simplifying power architecture in compact RF modules where HMC231G7TR is deployed.

What is the RF port configuration of the HMC231G7TR?

The HMC231G7TR features two DC-coupled, 50 Ω-matched RF ports: RF1 (pin 3) and RF2 (pin 1). In the ON state, RF1 connects to RF2; in the OFF state, both ports are internally terminated to 50 Ω. Blocking capacitors are required on either port if DC potential differs from 0 V - a key design consideration when integrating HMC231G7TR into mixed-signal RF subsystems.

How does the HMC231G7TR achieve high isolation without external components?

The HMC231G7TR achieves >55 dB isolation at 2 GHz and >42 dB at 6 GHz using integrated GaAs MESFET topology with optimized layout and hermetic shielding. Its non-reflective architecture terminates both RF ports in 50 Ω during OFF state, eliminating the need for external shunt resistors or matching networks. This monolithic integration ensures consistent isolation performance across temperature and frequency - a core advantage of the HMC231G7TR over discrete switch solutions.

Is the HMC231G7TR pin-compatible with other Hittite SPST switches?

Yes, the HMC231G7TR shares the same 7-lead SMT footprint and pinout as HMC231G7 and HMC231G7E, including identical RF1/RF2, GND, A, and B assignments. However, it is not pin-compatible with SPDT variants (e.g., HMC241) or different package types (e.g., bare die or QFN). Always verify mechanical drawings and thermal pad requirements before substituting HMC231G7TR in existing layouts.