Analog Devices Inc. HMC264-SX

Overview

HMC264-SX from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a GaAs MMIC sub-harmonically pumped (×2) mixer with integrated LO amplifier, designed for RF-to-IF frequency translation in 20–32 GHz systems. It delivers 10–13 dB conversion loss, 40 dB 2LO/RF isolation, and operates with -4 dBm LO drive at +3V to +4V supply. Ideal for microwave point-to-point radios requiring compact, high-isolation up/downconversion.

For engineers reviewing the HMC264-SX datasheet, HMC264-SX pinout, HMC264-SX application, or HMC264-SX equivalent, this page provides verified RF performance data, die-level mounting guidance, absolute maximum ratings, and real-world design constraints including bond wire length limits (<0.31 mm), Vdd bypassing requirements, and DC blocking on IF.

Technical Context

The HMC264-SX implements a sub-harmonic (2×) LO architecture where the local oscillator frequency is half the RF frequency - enabling use of lower-frequency, more stable LO sources while operating at Ka-band. Its integrated two-stage GaAs PHEMT LO amplifier accepts only -4 dBm input, eliminating external driver stages.

It achieves high 2LO/RF isolation (up to 40 dB) and 2LO/IF isolation (up to 50 dB), reducing need for external filtering. All RF/IF/LO ports are 50 Ω matched; IF is DC-coupled (requires external series capacitor), while RF and LO are AC-coupled.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: Bare die, 1.32 × 0.97 × 0.1 mm (0.052" × 0.038" × 0.004"), gold-metallized backside ground, 4-pad layout.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with HMC264-SX, HMC1048-SX trades LO integration for wider bandwidth and higher power handling, while QM11036 sacrifices industrial temperature rating for lower unit cost - making HMC264-SX the optimal choice for ruggedized Ka-band radios requiring guaranteed -55°C to +85°C operation and minimal LO drive.

Availability

HMC264-SX is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for microwave point-to-point radios, LMDS base stations, and SATCOM terminals requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for HMC264-SX 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 portfolio, specializing in GaAs and GaN MMICs for defense, communications, and instrumentation.

The HMC264-SX belongs to Hittite's legacy sub-harmonic mixer family, engineered specifically for Ka-band wireless infrastructure where LO simplification, size reduction, and high isolation are critical system-level requirements.

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable LO drive level for the HMC264-SX?

The absolute maximum LO drive level for the HMC264-SX is +13 dBm at Vdd = +4V. Exceeding this risks permanent damage to the integrated LO amplifier's GaAs PHEMT stages. For optimal linearity and reliability, operation between -6 dBm and 0 dBm is recommended - with -4 dBm being the nominal drive specified for full conversion loss and IP3 performance.

Can the HMC264-SX be used as both an upconverter and downconverter?

Yes, the HMC264-SX is bidirectional and functions as both an upconverter and downconverter. In downconversion mode, RF is applied to the RF port and IF is extracted from the IF port; in upconversion, IF is injected into the IF port and RF is generated at the RF port. The sub-harmonic ×2 LO architecture remains unchanged in either configuration, and all published specifications apply to both directions.

Is DC blocking required on the IF port of the HMC264-SX?

Yes, DC blocking is mandatory on the IF port of the HMC264-SX. The IF pad is DC-coupled internally, and any applied DC voltage will cause immediate die non-function and possible permanent failure. A series capacitor sized for the target IF bandwidth (e.g., 100 pF for DC–1 GHz) must be placed externally between the IF pad and downstream circuitry.

What is the recommended bond wire length for the HMC264-SX?

The recommended maximum bond wire length for the HMC264-SX is <0.31 mm (<12 mils) for all RF, LO, and IF connections. Longer wires degrade impedance matching, increase parasitic inductance, and reduce isolation - particularly impacting 2LO/RF performance above 26 GHz. Gold wire of 0.025 mm (1 mil) diameter is specified for thermosonic ball bonding at 150 °C stage temperature.

Does the HMC264-SX require an external RF choke or bias tee on the Vdd line?

No, the HMC264-SX does not require an external RF choke or bias tee on the Vdd line. Instead, it mandates a 100–330 pF RF bypass capacitor placed directly at Pad 1 (Vdd), with ground connection to the housing ground plane. The capacitor must be mounted eutectically or with conductive epoxy within 0.762 mm (30 mils) of the pad - a bias tee would introduce unnecessary series inductance and degrade high-frequency decoupling.