Analog Devices Inc. HMC232LP4E
- Part No.:
- HMC232LP4E
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc.
- Category:
- RF Switches
- Package:
- 24-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
HMC232LP4E.pdf
- Description:
- IC RF SWITCH SPDT 12GHZ 24QFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:3,091
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Product details
Overview
HMC232LP4E from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a GaAs MMIC SPDT non-reflective switch operating from DC to 12 GHz, delivering 1.5 dB typical insertion loss at 6 GHz, >60 dB isolation up to 3 GHz, and +27 dBm input P1dB compression. It uses complementary -5/0 V control logic, requires no external bias supply, and is deployed in microwave radio front-ends and test instrumentation signal routing.
For engineers reviewing the HMC232LP4E datasheet, HMC232LP4E pinout, HMC232LP4E application, or HMC232LP4E equivalent, key selection criteria include its non-reflective architecture, 24-lead 4×4 mm QFN package, DC–12 GHz bandwidth, -40°C to +85°C operating range, and compatibility with high-isolation RF switching in telecom and defense systems.
Technical Context
The HMC232LP4E implements a monolithic GaAs MESFET-based SPDT switch with integrated termination for non-reflective operation in both OFF states, enabling stable impedance matching across DC–12 GHz. Its complementary negative-voltage control (A/B pins at -5 V / 0 V) eliminates need for level-shifting circuitry.
Switching is characterized by 3 ns rise/fall time and 6 ns ON/OFF delay, with thermal resistance of 94 °C/W (junction-to-lead) and ESD rating Class 1A (HBM). The device maintains ≥42 dB isolation up to 12 GHz and supports +30 dBm absolute maximum RF input power at +50 °C.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Frequency Range | DC to 12 GHz - supports broadband RF routing without band-switching hardware |
| Insertion Loss | 1.5 dB typical @ 6 GHz - minimizes signal attenuation in active signal paths |
| Isolation | 60 dB @ 3 GHz, 42 dB @ 12 GHz - ensures strong channel separation in multi-path systems |
| Input P1dB | +27 dBm typical - enables handling of high-power transmit signals before compression |
| Input IP3 | +50 dBm typical - supports low intermodulation distortion in dense spectral environments |
| Control Logic | -5 V / 0 V complementary - simplifies interface with standard negative-logic drivers |
| Package | 24-lead 4×4 mm QFN, RoHS-compliant matte Sn finish - compatible with automated SMT assembly and RF grounding requirements |
Pinout & Package
Package: 24-lead, 4 mm × 4 mm, RoHS-compliant QFN with exposed ground paddle; requires soldering all ground leads and paddle to PCB RF ground per Hittite land pattern guidelines.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| RFC (Pin 4) | Common RF port | DC-coupled 50 Ω input requiring external blocking capacitor if DC potential ≠ 0 V |
| RF1 (Pin 9) | SPDT output path 1 | DC-coupled 50 Ω output; matched and terminated in OFF state for non-reflective behavior |
| RF2 (Pin 22) | SPDT output path 2 | DC-coupled 50 Ω output; independently controlled and terminated when inactive |
| A (Pin 16) | Control input A | Accepts -5 V (LOW) or 0 V (HIGH); defines RFC→RF1 path activation per truth table |
| B (Pin 15) | Control input B | Complementary to A; -5 V/0 V logic selects RFC→RF2 path |
| GND (Pins 3,5,8,10,21,23) | RF and DC ground | Must be connected to low-inductance PCB ground plane; package bottom paddle also grounded |
| N/C (Pins 1,2,6,7,11,12,13,14,17,18,19,20,24) | No internal connection | Externally grounded per measurement setup but electrically unused |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Non-reflective architecture | Terminated OFF-state ports maintain 50 Ω match, preventing signal reflections that disrupt VSWR-sensitive systems |
| DC–12 GHz bandwidth | Single device replaces multiple narrowband switches, reducing BOM count and layout complexity in wideband radios |
| +27 dBm P1dB compression | Supports high-power transmit chain switching without gain compression or distortion in L/S/C-band applications |
| -5 V / 0 V control interface | Eliminates need for external level shifters or positive-voltage supplies, simplifying driver design |
| 24-lead 4×4 mm QFN | Enables compact RF layout with low parasitic inductance and robust thermal dissipation (94 °C/W) |
Applications
| Telecom Infrastructure | Microwave Radio & VSAT |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Antenna diversity switching and TDD/FDD front-end path selection in 5G macro base stations. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: SPDT RF switch routing transmit/receive signals between PA/LNA and antenna ports. Use Value: 60 dB isolation at sub-3 GHz bands prevents receiver desensitization during high-power transmission. | Use Scenario: Signal path selection in outdoor point-to-point microwave transceivers operating at 6–11 GHz. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Non-reflective SPDT switch enabling seamless duplex mode transitions without VSWR disruption. Use Value: 1.5 dB insertion loss at 6 GHz preserves link budget; +50 dBm IP3 suppresses adjacent-channel interference. |
| Military Radios & ECM | Test Instrumentation |
Use Scenario: Fast-switching RF routing in software-defined radios and electronic countermeasure jammers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-isolation SPDT switch selecting between multiple waveform generators or antenna arrays. Use Value: 3 ns RF rise time enables microsecond-scale reconfiguration; -40°C to +85°C rating supports harsh-environment deployment. | Use Scenario: Automated RF path switching in vector network analyzers and signal source routing matrices. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Precision SPDT switch controlling calibration paths and DUT signal injection points. Use Value: Stable DC–12 GHz performance ensures traceable measurement accuracy; non-reflective design avoids calibration drift. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar SPDT switch applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| HMC547LP3E | Wider bandwidth (DC–14 GHz), higher isolation (65 dB @ 3 GHz), but higher insertion loss (2.0 dB @ 6 GHz) | Better suited for Ka-band test equipment where isolation >60 dB is critical | Select when extended frequency coverage and ultra-high isolation outweigh insertion loss penalty |
| Qorvo QM11036 | Si-based, 0.1–6.0 GHz range, +33 dBm P1dB, +52 dBm IP3, +3.3 V control | Optimized for lower-frequency cellular infrastructure with positive-voltage control compatibility | Select for cost-sensitive LTE/5G FR1 designs requiring simplified power supply architecture |
Compared with HMC547LP3E and QM11036, the HMC232LP4E offers best-in-class balance of broadband performance (DC–12 GHz), low insertion loss (1.5 dB), and negative-control simplicity-making it optimal for microwave radio and defense-grade instrumentation where RF integrity and layout efficiency are prioritized.
Availability
HMC232LP4E is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for telecom infrastructure, microwave radio & VSAT, and military radio applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.
Supply support for HMC232LP4E 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 integrates its high-frequency RF/Microwave portfolio into precision signal processing solutions.
The HMC232LP4E belongs to Hittite's GaAs MMIC SPDT switch product line, engineered for high-isolation, broadband RF signal routing in demanding wireless infrastructure and defense electronics.
FAQ
What is the operating temperature range for the HMC232LP4E?
The HMC232LP4E operates over -40°C to +85°C ambient temperature. This range is validated per Absolute Maximum Ratings and electrical specifications tables in the official datasheet. Thermal resistance is specified as 94 °C/W (junction-to-lead), supporting reliable operation in base station and field-deployed military equipment. Derating applies above +85°C ambient; full performance is guaranteed only within the stated range.
Does the HMC232LP4E require an external bias supply?
No, the HMC232LP4E requires no external bias supply. It operates solely from complementary -5 V / 0 V control voltages applied to pins A and B. All DC biasing is internally generated using GaAs MESFET technology. This eliminates need for dedicated bias rails, simplifying system power architecture and reducing bill-of-materials cost compared to bias-dependent RF switches.
What is the meaning of "non-reflective" in the HMC232LP4E datasheet?
"Non-reflective" means the HMC232LP4E terminates both RF1 and RF2 ports with 50 Ω resistive loads when those paths are OFF. Unlike reflective switches that present open or short circuits, this design maintains stable 50 Ω impedance at all ports regardless of switching state-preventing signal reflections that degrade VSWR, cause measurement errors, or damage sensitive components like LNAs or mixers downstream.
Can the HMC232LP4E handle +30 dBm RF input power?
The HMC232LP4E has an absolute maximum RF input power rating of +30 dBm (1 W) at +50°C ambient, per Absolute Maximum Ratings. However, linear operation is limited to +27 dBm (typical P1dB) - beyond which compression and distortion increase. For sustained reliability, continuous operation above +27 dBm should follow derating curves and thermal management guidance in the datasheet.
How does the HMC232LP4E differ from the HMC232LP4?
The HMC232LP4E is the RoHS-compliant version of the HMC232LP4. Key differences: HMC232LP4E uses 100% matte tin lead finish and has MSL1 rating with 260°C peak reflow temperature, while HMC232LP4 uses Sn/Pb solder and 235°C reflow limit. Both share identical electrical performance, pinout, package dimensions, and functional behavior - the HMC232LP4E replaces HMC232LP4 in new designs requiring lead-free compliance.
HMC232LP4E Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc.
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 24-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Strip
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- RF Type:
- General Purpose
- Topology:
- Absorptive
- Circuit:
- SPDT
- Frequency Range:
- 0Hz ~ 12GHz
- Isolation:
- 42dB
- Insertion Loss:
- 2.7dB
- Test Frequency:
- 12GHz
- P1dB:
- 27dBm
- IIP3:
- 50dBm
- Features:
- -
- Impedance:
- 50Ohm
- Voltage - Supply:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 24-QFN (4x4)
HMC232LP4E FAQ
1.How can I place an order for HMC232LP4E through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for HMC232LP4E on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for HMC232LP4E reliable?
The price and inventory of HMC232LP4E are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for HMC232LP4E is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for HMC232LP4E?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for HMC232LP4E transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for HMC232LP4E?
HMC232LP4E orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your HMC232LP4E order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for HMC232LP4E?
For technical support, including HMC232LP4E datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your HMC232LP4E requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that HMC232LP4E is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All HMC232LP4E products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that HMC232LP4E meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of HMC232LP4E?
All HMC232LP4E units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with HMC232LP4E, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The HMC232LP4E part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for HMC232LP4E:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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