Analog Devices Inc. HMC292ALC3BTR-R5

Overview

HMC292ALC3BTR-R5 from Analog Devices is a GaAs MMIC double balanced mixer operating from 14 GHz to 30 GHz RF, with dc–8 GHz IF bandwidth, 9 dB typical conversion loss, 19 dBm typical input IP3, and 48 dB typical LO-to-RF isolation-designed for microwave up/downconversion in VSAT, test equipment, and EW systems.

For engineers reviewing the HMC292ALC3BTR-R5 datasheet, HMC292ALC3BTR-R5 pinout, HMC292ALC3BTR-R5 application, or HMC292ALC3BTR-R5 equivalent, this passive mixer requires no DC bias, supports 9–15 dBm LO drive, delivers stable performance across −40°C to +85°C, and integrates into surface-mount RF front-ends without wire bonding.

Technical Context

The HMC292ALC3BTR-R5 implements a double-balanced diode-ring architecture in GaAs MMIC process, enabling simultaneous high LO–RF isolation (48 dB typ.) and wide IF bandwidth (dc–8 GHz). Its passive design eliminates bias circuitry while maintaining consistent conversion loss (9–12.5 dB) and noise figure (10.5 dB) across temperature and LO power variations.

It operates bidirectionally: as a downconverter (RF 14–30 GHz → IF dc–8 GHz) or upconverter (IF dc–8 GHz → RF 14–30 GHz), with matched 50 Ω ac-coupled LO and RF ports and a dc-coupled IF port rated for ±3 mA current. The exposed thermal pad ensures reliable thermal dissipation at junction temperatures up to 175°C.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

12-terminal, 3 mm × 3 mm RoHS-compliant ceramic leadless chip carrier (LCC, package code E-12-4) with exposed thermal pad requiring RF/dc ground connection. Package meets MSL3 reflow profile (peak 260°C).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with HMC1048LP4E and QPC1006, the HMC292ALC3BTR-R5 offers optimal balance of K_u/K-band coverage, passive operation, and proven 48 dB LO–RF isolation-making it the preferred choice for space-constrained, high-reliability microwave transceivers where bias-free design and thermal robustness are critical.

Availability

HMC292ALC3BTR-R5 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for microwave VSAT radios, electronic warfare subsystems, and point-to-point radio links requiring stable component supply, full traceability, and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for HMC292ALC3BTR-R5 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 is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and RF ICs, serving communications, defense, instrumentation, and industrial markets with precision signal processing solutions.

The HMC292ALC3BTR-R5 belongs to Analog Devices' Hittite Microwave MMIC product line, engineered specifically for broadband microwave and millimeter-wave frequency conversion in defense, aerospace, and test equipment applications.

FAQ

What is the RF frequency range supported by the HMC292ALC3BTR-R5?

The HMC292ALC3BTR-R5 supports an RF frequency range of 14 GHz to 30 GHz, covering key segments of the K_u-band and extended K-band. This range is validated per datasheet Table 1 under ambient temperature of 25°C, with IF = 1 GHz and LO = 13 dBm. Performance remains functional across the full range in both upconverter and downconverter modes.

Does the HMC292ALC3BTR-R5 require DC bias voltage or current?

No, the HMC292ALC3BTR-R5 is a fully passive double balanced mixer and requires no DC bias. It operates solely on RF and LO signal energy, eliminating the need for bias tees, decoupling networks, or external power regulation-reducing design complexity and failure points in high-frequency layouts.

What is the maximum allowable IF current for the HMC292ALC3BTR-R5?

The HMC292ALC3BTR-R5 IF port is dc-coupled and rated for ±3 mA source or sink current, as specified in the Absolute Maximum Ratings table (Page 4). Exceeding this limit risks die malfunction or permanent damage, especially when operating to dc; external series capacitors are recommended if dc operation is unnecessary.

How is thermal management implemented for the HMC292ALC3BTR-R5?

The HMC292ALC3BTR-R5 uses an exposed thermal pad (EPAD) that must be soldered directly to the PCB ground plane using multiple thermal vias. Per datasheet Table 3, its junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (θ_JA) is 120°C/W under natural convection in a sealed enclosure-requiring careful PCB copper area and via design to maintain junction temperature ≤175°C at full power.

Is the HMC292ALC3BTR-R5 pin-compatible with other HMC292 variants like HMC292ALC3BTR?

Yes, the HMC292ALC3BTR-R5 shares identical pin configuration, package dimensions (3 mm × 3 mm LCC, E-12-4), and electrical specifications with HMC292ALC3BTR and HMC292ALC3B. The "-R5" suffix denotes a 500-piece tape-and-reel packaging option; all three part numbers use the same die and pinout per Figures 2 and 35 in the datasheet.