Analog Devices Inc. HMC260LC3BTR

Overview

HMC260LC3BTR from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a GaAs MMIC double-balanced passive mixer operating from 14–26 GHz RF/LO and DC–8 GHz IF, delivering 10.5 dB typical conversion loss, +20 dBm input IP3, and 40 dB LO/RF isolation in a 12-lead 3×3 mm ceramic SMT package-ideal for microwave up/downconversion in point-to-point radios and test equipment.

For engineers reviewing the HMC260LC3BTR datasheet, HMC260LC3BTR pinout, HMC260LC3BTR application, or HMC260LC3BTR equivalent, key selection criteria include its no-DC-bias operation, wide IF bandwidth to DC, optimized balun-based isolation performance, and compatibility with surface-mount manufacturing without external matching.

Technical Context

The HMC260LC3BTR employs a passive double-balanced topology with integrated planar baluns enabling high LO-to-RF and LO-to-IF suppression across its full 14–26 GHz band. Its fundamental mixing architecture requires no DC bias and supports LO drive levels from +9 to +15 dBm.

It delivers stable conversion gain vs. temperature (−40°C to +85°C) and maintains >24 dB LO-to-IF isolation and >34 dB LO-to-RF isolation at 25°C. The device exhibits 50 dBm input IP2 and 14 dBm input P1dB, confirming robust linearity for high-dynamic-range microwave receivers and transmitters.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

12-lead leadless ceramic package (3×3 mm, 9 mm² body), alumina substrate, gold-over-nickel plating, MSL3, with exposed ground paddle requiring solder connection to PCB RF ground plane.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar passive mixer applications.

Compared with HMC260LC3BTR, HMC1048LP3E extends low-frequency coverage at the cost of conversion efficiency, while QM11024 trades package compatibility for marginal IP3 improvement-HMC260LC3BTR remains optimal for compact, high-isolation 14–26 GHz designs requiring minimal external circuitry.

Availability

HMC260LC3BTR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for point-to-point radios, test equipment, and military communications systems requiring stable component supply, consistent RF performance across temperature, and RoHS-compliant SMT manufacturability.

Supply support for HMC260LC3BTR 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 HMC260LC3BTR belongs to Hittite's legacy GaAs MMIC mixer family, engineered specifically for millimeter-wave wireless infrastructure and defense systems demanding high linearity, wide IF bandwidth, and passive reliability.

FAQ

What is the recommended LO drive level for optimal performance of the HMC260LC3BTR?

The HMC260LC3BTR achieves best conversion loss and isolation with LO drive between +11 dBm and +13 dBm. At +13 dBm, typical conversion loss is 10.5 dB and LO/RF isolation reaches 40 dB. Operation down to +9 dBm is supported but increases conversion loss by ~1.5 dB; exceeding +15 dBm risks degradation per absolute maximum ratings.

Does the HMC260LC3BTR require external DC blocking or biasing components?

No. The HMC260LC3BTR is a passive double-balanced mixer with no DC bias requirement. All ports (LO, RF, IF) are DC-coupled. For IF operation above DC, an external series capacitor may be used-but is not mandatory-and must be selected to pass the target IF band (e.g., 0.1 µF for 1 MHz–8 GHz).

Can the HMC260LC3BTR be used for both upconversion and downconversion?

Yes. The HMC260LC3BTR is bidirectional: it functions identically as an upconverter (IF → RF) or downconverter (RF → IF) across its specified 14–26 GHz RF/LO and DC–8 GHz IF ranges. Performance data in the datasheet is measured in downconverter mode unless otherwise noted.

What thermal management considerations apply to the HMC260LC3BTR?

The HMC260LC3BTR has a junction-to-ground-paddle thermal resistance of 253 °C/W. To maintain channel temperature ≤150 °C, the exposed ground paddle must be fully soldered to a thermally robust PCB ground plane with multiple vias to inner-layer ground. At 85 °C ambient, max continuous dissipation is 260 mW before derating.

Is the HMC260LC3BTR pin-compatible with other Hittite mixer variants like HMC260LC3?

Yes. HMC260LC3BTR is the tape-and-reel packaging variant of HMC260LC3; both share identical pinout, package dimensions, electrical specifications, and marking (H260). The "BTR" suffix denotes bulk tape-and-reel packaging-no functional or mechanical differences exist between HMC260LC3 and HMC260LC3BTR.