Analog Devices Inc. HMC252AQS24ETR

Overview

HMC252AQS24ETR from Analog Devices is a GaAs MMIC SP6T non-reflective RF switch operating from DC to 3.0 GHz, featuring 1.0 dB typical insertion loss at 2 GHz, 40 dB isolation at 2 GHz (V_DD = +5 V), and integrated 3:6 TTL decoder requiring only three control lines. It serves as a single-chip replacement for multiple SP4T/SPDT switches in base station transmit/receive path switching.

For engineers reviewing the HMC252AQS24ETR datasheet, HMC252AQS24ETR pinout, HMC252AQS24ETR application, or HMC252AQS24ETR equivalent, key selection criteria include its non-reflective SP6T architecture, +3.3 V to +5 V single-supply operation, 24-lead QSOP package compatibility, and DC–3 GHz bandwidth with TTL/CMOS logic interface.

Technical Context

This monolithic microwave integrated circuit implements a single-pole, six-throw (SP6T) RF switch using GaAs pHEMT technology, with internal bias networks and on-die 3:6 decoder logic. All six RF paths are non-reflective when selected, and the "ALL OFF" state is reflective-requiring external DC blocking capacitors at RFC and RF1–RF6 ports per design note.

Switching is controlled via three TTL/CMOS-compatible digital inputs (A, B, C), enabling deterministic path selection with t_ON/t_OFF ≤ 90 ns and t_RISE/t_FALL ≤ 25 ns under +5 V bias. Bias current remains low: 3.5 mA typical at +5 V, 3.3 mA at +3.3 V.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 24-lead QSOP (Quad Small Outline Package), RoHS-compliant, MSL1, matte tin finish, thermal resistance θ_JA = 130 °C/W (insertion loss path).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar SP6T RF switch applications.

Compared with HMC547LP3E and QM11036, the HMC252AQS24ETR uniquely integrates TTL decoding and delivers optimal balance of bandwidth, loss, isolation, and ease-of-use in cost-sensitive 3 GHz infrastructure applications-without requiring additional logic or high-voltage bias.

Availability

HMC252AQS24ETR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for base station transceivers, CATV/DBS signal routing, and RF test equipment requiring stable component supply, consistent lead times, and full traceability.

Supply support for HMC252AQS24ETR 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, automotive, and instrumentation markets since 1965.

The HMC252AQS24ETR belongs to Analog Devices' Hittite Microwave RF switch product line, engineered specifically for broadband infrastructure applications demanding low loss, high isolation, and logic-integrated control in compact SMT packages.

FAQ

What is the maximum RF input power the HMC252AQS24ETR can handle before compression?

The HMC252AQS24ETR has an input power for 1 dB compression of 24 dBm across 0.3–3.0 GHz when biased at +5 V. At +3.3 V, it drops to 21 dBm. This value reflects the RF power level at which insertion loss increases by 1 dB relative to small-signal performance-critical for setting gain staging in transmitter chains. The HMC252AQS24ETR must be operated below this threshold to maintain linear amplification and avoid spectral regrowth.

Does the HMC252AQS24ETR require external DC blocking capacitors?

Yes, the HMC252AQS24ETR requires external DC blocking capacitors at all RF ports: RFC and RF1 through RF6. This is explicitly stated in the datasheet Note 1 and confirmed in the evaluation board schematic (EV1HMC252AQS24), which uses 100 pF 0402 capacitors. Omitting them risks DC path disruption and potential damage due to unintended bias injection into connected components.

What happens when the HMC252AQS24ETR is placed in the "ALL OFF" state?

In the "ALL OFF" state (A=B=C=LOW/HIGH per truth table), all six RF paths are disconnected and the RFC port becomes reflective-not terminated. This condition violates the non-reflective design intent and may cause standing waves or source instability if driven. The HMC252AQS24ETR datasheet explicitly warns against using "ALL OFF" in active signal paths; it is intended only for power-down or diagnostic states with appropriate external termination.

Can the HMC252AQS24ETR operate with both +3.3 V and +5 V supplies?

Yes, the HMC252AQS24ETR supports dual supply operation: +3.3 V (±5%) and +5.0 V (±10%). Electrical specifications-including insertion loss, isolation, and switching speed-are characterized at both voltages. Current draw differs slightly: 3.3 mA typical at +3.3 V vs. 3.5 mA at +5 V. Logic thresholds scale accordingly, maintaining full TTL/CMOS compatibility across both rails without level shifters.

Is the HMC252AQS24ETR pin-compatible with other Hittite SP6T switches like the HMC253AQS24E?

No, the HMC252AQS24ETR is not pin-compatible with the HMC253AQS24E. While both are 24-lead QSOP SP6T switches, their pin functions differ: HMC252AQS24ETR assigns V_DD to Pin 7 and GND to Pins 1–6/19–24, whereas HMC253AQS24E relocates V_DD and adds separate V_SS pins. Layout reuse is not possible without redesign. Always verify pinout against the respective datasheet before migration.