Analog Devices Inc. HMC266-SX
- Part No.:
- HMC266-SX
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc.
- Category:
- RF Mixers
- Package:
- Die
- Datasheet:
-
HMC266-SX.pdf
- Description:
- IC MIXER SUB-HARMONIC DIE
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
HMC266-SX from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a GaAs MMIC sub-harmonically pumped (×2) passive balanced mixer for RF upconversion and downconversion in 20–40 GHz systems, featuring 12–16 dB conversion loss, 42–52 dB 2LO-to-RF isolation, and +10 to +13 dBm input IP3 - deployed in point-to-point radios, LMDS, and SATCOM transceivers.
For engineers reviewing the HMC266-SX datasheet, HMC266-SX pinout, HMC266-SX application, or HMC266-SX equivalent, key selection criteria include its 20–40 GHz RF bandwidth, 10–20 GHz LO range, 1–3 GHz IF support, chip-scale 1.34 × 1.49 mm footprint, and requirement for +12 dBm LO drive with minimal ribbon bonding.
Technical Context
The HMC266-SX implements a broadband sub-harmonic (×2) pumping architecture that eliminates need for fundamental LO filtering by leveraging high 2LO-to-RF isolation (42–52 dB) and strong LO-to-IF isolation (48–55 dB). Its balanced passive topology uses no DC bias and relies on precise 50 Ω AC-coupled RF/LO and DC-coupled IF interfaces.
Designed for millimeter-wave operation, the device operates across –55°C to +85°C with absolute max ratings of +13 dBm RF/IF input and +23 dBm LO drive. Performance is characterized in 50 Ω test fixtures using ≤0.31 mm gold ribbon bonds, confirming stable conversion gain and spurious suppression up to 40 GHz.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| RF Frequency Range | 20–40 GHz - supports E-band infrastructure including 23/26/38 GHz point-to-point links |
| LO Frequency Range | 10–20 GHz - enables x2 sub-harmonic pumping, halving required LO source frequency |
| IF Frequency Range | 1–3 GHz - compatible with standard IF processing stages and SAW/BAW filters |
| Conversion Loss | 12–16 dB - defines signal attenuation through mixer; impacts system NF and dynamic range budget |
| 2LO to RF Isolation | 42–52 dB - suppresses second harmonic LO leakage into RF path, reducing external filter burden |
| Input IP3 | +10 to +13 dBm - quantifies linearity under two-tone conditions; critical for multi-carrier SATCOM |
| Chip Size | 1.34 × 1.49 × 0.01 mm - die-level GaAs MMIC requiring wire bonding; not packaged |
Pinout & Package
Package: Bare GaAs MMIC die in Waffle Pack (WP-3), 0.102 mm thick, gold backside metallization, ground-connected die bottom.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (RF) | Radio Frequency port | AC-coupled, 50 Ω matched input/output; used for RF signal injection or extraction |
| 2 (IF) | Intermediate Frequency port | DC-coupled, 50 Ω matched interface; connects directly to baseband or IF amplification chain |
| 3 (LO) | Local Oscillator port | AC-coupled, 50 Ω matched input; accepts +12 dBm LO drive at half RF frequency |
| Die Bottom | Ground reference | Backside metallized gold; must be eutectically or conductively bonded to RF ground plane |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Sub-harmonic (×2) pumping | Enables use of lower-frequency, more stable, and lower-cost LO sources while operating at E-band |
| Passive balanced topology | Eliminates DC bias requirements and improves port-to-port isolation without active circuitry |
| High 2LO-to-RF isolation | Reduces need for external harmonic filtering, simplifying front-end design and board space |
| Small 1.9 mm² die area | Minimizes parasitic inductance/capacitance in millimeter-wave layouts; supports dense RF integration |
| –55°C to +85°C operation | Validated performance across industrial temperature range without derating |
Applications
| 23–26 GHz Point-to-Point Radio | LMDS Base Station Transceiver |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: High-capacity wireless backhaul link operating at 23 or 26 GHz with 100+ MHz channel bandwidth. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Downconverter (RF→IF) and upconverter (IF→RF) in dual-conversion transceiver architecture. Use Value: Sub-harmonic LO pumping allows use of 11.5–13 GHz synthesizers instead of 23–26 GHz VCOs, improving phase noise and tuning resolution. | Use Scenario: Fixed wireless access node serving multiple subscribers in licensed 27.5–29.5 GHz LMDS band. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Core RF mixer in outdoor unit (ODU), handling both transmit upconversion and receive downconversion. Use Value: 42–52 dB 2LO-to-RF isolation prevents LO harmonic radiation from violating spectral mask limits in regulated LMDS spectrum. |
| 38 GHz SATCOM Terminal | Ka-Band VSAT Modem |
Use Scenario: Mobile satellite terminal operating in 37.5–40 GHz uplink band with stringent linearity requirements. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Upconverter in transmit chain, translating 1–3 GHz IF to 38 GHz RF with minimal distortion. Use Value: +10 to +13 dBm input IP3 ensures multi-carrier operation without intermodulation degradation in shared SATCOM channels. | Use Scenario: Two-way Ka-band VSAT modem supporting DVB-S2X and SCPC waveforms. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual-role mixer in full-duplex transceiver, enabling simultaneous 29.5–30 GHz RX and 17.7–19.7 GHz TX via sub-harmonic LO reuse. Use Value: Identical RF/LO/IF port impedance (50 Ω) and symmetric layout simplify balanced PCB routing and reduce assembly complexity. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar sub-harmonic mixer applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| HMC1048-SX | Wider RF range (17–44 GHz), higher LO drive (+15 dBm), larger die (1.5 × 1.7 mm) | Better suited for wideband test equipment; less optimized for fixed 26/38 GHz radios | Select when broader frequency coverage or higher LO tolerance is required over compact size |
| Qorvo QM11024 | Same 20–40 GHz RF range but requires +15 dBm LO; 2LO-to-RF isolation 38–48 dB (lower) | Higher LO power demand increases driver complexity; reduced harmonic suppression may require added filtering | Consider only if supply-chain availability outweighs isolation and LO drive efficiency trade-offs |
Compared with HMC266-SX, HMC1048-SX offers extended bandwidth at the cost of larger footprint and higher LO power, while QM11024 trades 4–6 dB lower 2LO-to-RF isolation for alternate sourcing - making HMC266-SX optimal for size- and isolation-constrained E-band radios.
Availability
HMC266-SX is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for 23 GHz point-to-point radios, LMDS base stations, and SATCOM terminals requiring stable component supply, consistent wafer-lot traceability, and long-term millimeter-wave die availability.
Supply support for HMC266-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, aerospace, and communications infrastructure.
The HMC266-SX belongs to Hittite's legacy sub-harmonic mixer product line, engineered specifically for E-band wireless infrastructure where LO harmonic suppression, small die size, and repeatable RF performance are critical.
FAQ
What is the recommended LO drive level for optimal performance of the HMC266-SX?
The HMC266-SX is characterized and optimized for +12 dBm LO drive, delivering best-in-class conversion loss (12–16 dB), IP3 (+10 to +13 dBm), and isolation (42–52 dB 2LO-to-RF). Deviating below +10 dBm increases conversion loss; exceeding +14 dBm yields diminishing returns and risks accelerated aging. All published specs assume +12 dBm LO drive in a 50 Ω fixture with ≤0.31 mm ribbon bonds.
Does the HMC266-SX require DC bias or external power?
No, the HMC266-SX is a passive GaAs MMIC mixer and requires no DC bias or external power supply. It operates solely on RF, LO, and IF signal energy. The die bottom serves as ground reference and must be conductively bonded to the PCB ground plane. No voltage rails, current draw, or enable pins are associated with the HMC266-SX.
Can the HMC266-SX be used for both upconversion and downconversion?
Yes, the HMC266-SX is a bidirectional passive mixer and functions identically as an upconverter (IF→RF) or downconverter (RF→IF) due to its balanced topology and symmetrical port design. Application notes confirm validated performance in both modes across 20–40 GHz RF, 10–20 GHz LO, and 1–3 GHz IF bands - with identical conversion loss, isolation, and linearity specs.
What packaging format is supplied for the HMC266-SX?
The HMC266-SX is supplied as a bare die in Waffle Pack (WP-3) per Hittite's die packaging specification. It is not offered in leaded, QFN, or module formats. Each die measures 1.34 × 1.49 mm with gold bond pads and gold backside metallization, intended for eutectic or conductive epoxy die attach and 3-mil gold ribbon bonding.
Is the HMC266-SX still in active production or obsolete?
The HMC266-SX is marked "OBSOLETE" in the official datasheet revision v03.0907, indicating end-of-life status by Analog Devices. However, Aetrix Electronics maintains legacy inventory with full traceability and supports continued production use via controlled distribution, subject to remaining stock levels and qualification documentation.
HMC266-SX Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc.
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- Die
- Packaging:
- Bulk
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- RF Type:
- General Purpose
- Frequency:
- 20GHz ~ 40GHz
- Number of Mixers:
- 1
- Gain:
- -
- Noise Figure:
- 12dB
- Secondary Attributes:
- Up/Down Converter
- Current - Supply:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- Die
HMC266-SX FAQ
1.How can I place an order for HMC266-SX through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for HMC266-SX on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for HMC266-SX reliable?
The price and inventory of HMC266-SX are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for HMC266-SX is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for HMC266-SX?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for HMC266-SX transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for HMC266-SX?
HMC266-SX orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your HMC266-SX order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for HMC266-SX?
For technical support, including HMC266-SX datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your HMC266-SX requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that HMC266-SX is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All HMC266-SX products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that HMC266-SX meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of HMC266-SX?
All HMC266-SX units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with HMC266-SX, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The HMC266-SX part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for HMC266-SX:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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