Analog Devices Inc. HMC244G16TR

Overview

HMC244G16TR from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a GaAs MMIC SP4T non-reflective RF switch in a 16-lead hermetic glass/metal SMT package, operating from DC to 4 GHz. It delivers 0.7 dB typical insertion loss at 3 GHz, 30–45 dB isolation across band, and integrates a 2:4 TTL/CMOS decoder requiring only two control lines and +5 V bias - enabling path selection in telecom infrastructure and military radios.

For engineers reviewing the HMC244G16TR datasheet, HMC244G16TR pinout, HMC244G16TR application, or HMC244G16TR equivalent, key selection criteria include its non-reflective architecture, integrated decoder reducing control complexity, DC–4 GHz bandwidth, +5 V single-supply operation, and hermetic 16-lead SMT packaging for high-reliability RF front-end switching.

Technical Context

The HMC244G16TR implements a monolithic GaAs MMIC design with internal termination for all off-state ports, ensuring non-reflective behavior critical for impedance-sensitive systems. Its integrated 2:4 decoder accepts TTL/CMOS-compatible A/B logic inputs to select one of four RF paths (RF1–RF4) to the common port (RFC), eliminating external decoding logic.

It operates with +5.0 Vdc ±10% supply (Vdd), draws 3.0 mA typical current, and supports full DC–4 GHz RF signal routing with matched 50 Ω DC-coupled ports requiring external blocking capacitors. Thermal resistance is 210 °C/W on the insertion-loss path and 250 °C/W on terminated paths.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 16-lead hermetic glass/metal SMT package with exposed ground paddle; dimensions per outline drawing; alumina-loaded borosilicate glass body, Kovar™ base/cover, 50 µin gold plating over nickel.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with HMC244G16TR, HMC547LP3E offers wider bandwidth but lacks path selection logic and hermetic sealing, while QM11036 provides lower-voltage operation and modern packaging but requires external decoding and has reduced isolation - making HMC244G16TR uniquely suited for high-reliability, decoder-integrated DC–4 GHz switching.

Availability

HMC244G16TR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for telecom infrastructure, military radio systems, and radar ECM applications requiring stable component supply, long-term obsolescence management, and traceable sourcing for mission-critical RF subsystems.

Supply support for HMC244G16TR 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 semiconductor leader specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and RF technologies for precision signal processing and connectivity.

The HMC244G16TR belongs to the former Hittite Microwave RF Switch product line, designed specifically for high-isolation, non-reflective, broadband switching in defense, aerospace, and instrumentation systems demanding hermetic reliability and integrated control logic.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for the HMC244G16TR?

The HMC244G16TR is rated for operation from −40°C to +85°C ambient temperature. Its hermetic glass/metal package and GaAs MMIC construction ensure stable RF performance across this full industrial/military range, with thermal resistance of 210 °C/W on the insertion-loss path supporting reliable continuous-wave operation under typical bias conditions.

Does the HMC244G16TR require external blocking capacitors on its RF ports?

Yes, the HMC244G16TR RF ports (RF1–RF4 and RFC) are DC-coupled and matched to 50 Ω, so external DC-blocking capacitors are mandatory to prevent unwanted DC paths in the RF signal chain. The evaluation PCB uses 330 pF 0402 capacitors; values should be selected based on lowest operating frequency to maintain impedance integrity and avoid resonance.

How does the integrated 2:4 decoder in the HMC244G16TR simplify system design?

The integrated 2:4 decoder in the HMC244G16TR reduces control complexity by accepting only two TTL/CMOS logic inputs (A and B) to select among four RF paths - replacing eight discrete control lines typically needed for GaAs SP4T switches. This lowers FPGA I/O count, eliminates external logic gates, and shortens PCB routing, directly improving layout density and signal integrity in compact RF modules.

What is the maximum RF input power the HMC244G16TR can handle without compression?

The HMC244G16TR delivers +25 dBm typical input power for 1 dB compression at 0.5–4.0 GHz. Absolute maximum input power is +27 dBm in the 0.5–3.5 GHz band and +20 dBm below 0.5 GHz. These ratings assume proper thermal management, including soldering all ground leads and the exposed paddle to a solid RF ground plane per the datasheet layout guidelines.

Is the HMC244G16TR pin-compatible with other Hittite SP4T switches like the HMC244MS8G?

No, the HMC244G16TR is not pin-compatible with the HMC244MS8G. The HMC244G16TR uses a 16-lead hermetic glass/metal SMT package with specific pin assignments including dedicated RF ports and ground paddle connections, whereas the HMC244MS8G is an 8-lead surface-mount package with different pinout, footprint, and thermal design. Direct replacement would require PCB redesign and layout validation.