Analog Devices Inc. HMC264LM3TR

Overview

HMC264LM3 from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a GaAs MMIC sub-harmonically pumped (×2) mixer with integrated LO amplifier, operating as a downconverter or upconverter in 20–30 GHz RF systems. It delivers 9–12 dB conversion loss, 9–12 dB noise figure (SSB), and 20–35 dB 2LO-to-RF isolation at +3V to +4V supply, enabling compact microwave radios without external LO filtering.

For engineers reviewing the HMC264LM3 datasheet, HMC264LM3 pinout, HMC264LM3 application, or HMC264LM3 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 10–15 GHz LO range (half of RF), -4 dBm LO drive requirement, LM3 SMT package compatibility with CPWG PCB transitions, and DC-coupled IF interface requiring external blocking capacitor.

Technical Context

The HMC264LM3 implements a sub-harmonic (×2) mixing architecture where the LO frequency is half the RF band (10–15 GHz LO for 20–30 GHz RF), eliminating need for high-frequency LO synthesis. Its integrated two-stage LO amplifier operates from a single +3V to +4V bias and accepts only -4 dBm input, reducing external driver complexity.

RF and LO ports are AC-coupled and 50 Ω matched across full bands; IF is DC-coupled and requires external series capacitor for DC blocking. The device achieves >30 dB 2LO-to-IF isolation and supports IF bandwidths up to 4 GHz, with absolute maximum ratings including +13 dBm RF/LO input and -40°C to +85°C operating temperature.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The HMC264LM3 is housed in an LM3 leadless chip carrier package (plastic body, gold-over-nickel plating), measuring 2.0 × 2.0 mm with 7 terminals. Ground pins (1, 2, 7) must be soldered to PCB RF ground; RF, LO, and IF ports are impedance-matched for CPWG or microstrip transitions.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar sub-harmonic mixer applications.

Compared with HMC1048LP3E and QPC1006, the HMC264LM3 uniquely combines sub-harmonic pumping, integrated LO amplification, and 2.0 × 2.0 mm LM3 packaging-enabling lower-system-cost microwave radios where LO frequency division and space-constrained layouts are critical.

Availability

HMC264LM3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for 20/30 GHz microwave radios, point-to-point radio up/down converters, and LMDS infrastructure requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and high-frequency performance consistency.

Supply support for HMC264LM3 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 maintains its high-frequency RF IC portfolio, specializing in GaAs and GaN solutions for defense, communications, and instrumentation markets.

The HMC264LM3 belongs to the Hittite legacy MMIC mixer product line, engineered specifically for millimeter-wave wireless infrastructure where sub-harmonic efficiency, integration, and SMT manufacturability are essential.

FAQ

What is the recommended LO drive level for optimal performance of the HMC264LM3?

The HMC264LM3 is characterized and optimized for -4 dBm LO drive at Vdd = +3V or +4V. At this level, it achieves typical conversion loss of 9–12 dB and 2LO-to-RF isolation of 25–35 dB. Deviating significantly (e.g., -8 dBm or 0 dBm) degrades conversion gain flatness and increases distortion; the datasheet confirms -4 dBm as the nominal design point across temperature and frequency.

Can the HMC264LM3 be used as an upconverter, and what are the IF interface requirements?

Yes, the HMC264LM3 supports bidirectional operation as both upconverter and downconverter. Its IF port is DC-coupled, so any applied DC voltage will cause non-function or die failure. An external series capacitor must be placed on the IF line to block DC while passing the required IF bandwidth (DC–4 GHz); capacitor value must be selected to maintain impedance match and low insertion loss across the IF band.

What is the function of pins 1 and 2 on the HMC264LM3, and how should they be handled on the PCB?

Pins 1 and 2 on the HMC264LM3 are No Connect (N/C) terminals with no internal die connection. Per the official datasheet, they may be connected to housing ground or left unconnected. In practice, tying them to the PCB RF ground plane improves mechanical stability and thermal conduction without electrical impact, but floating them does not affect RF performance.

Does the HMC264LM3 require external filtering between LO and RF paths?

No-external LO harmonic filtering is not required due to the HMC264LM3's inherent 2LO-to-RF isolation of 20–35 dB. This performance eliminates the need for discrete bandpass filters typically used with fundamental mixers, simplifying front-end design and reducing insertion loss. However, system-level spurious analysis should still verify compliance with spectral mask requirements.

What PCB layout techniques are critical for achieving specified HMC264LM3 performance at 30 GHz?

To achieve datasheet performance, the HMC264LM3 requires grounded coplanar waveguide (CPWG) transitions with precise geometry: 0.016" signal line width, 0.005" gap to ground, and 0.008" via diameter. The LM3-01 land pattern tolerance is ±0.003", and RF bypass capacitors (100–330 pF, 0402) must be placed within 100 mils of pin 3 (Vdd). Rogers 4003 substrate with 0.008" dielectric thickness is recommended.