Analog Devices Inc. HMC292LC3B

Overview

HMC292LC3B from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a GaAs MMIC passive double-balanced mixer operating from 16–30 GHz RF/LO and DC–8 GHz IF, delivering typical conversion loss of 9.5 dB, input IP3 of +20 dBm, and LO/RF isolation of 40 dB - ideal for millimeter-wave up/downconversion in point-to-point radios and test equipment.

For engineers reviewing the HMC292LC3B datasheet, HMC292LC3B pinout, HMC292LC3B application, or HMC292LC3B equivalent, this page provides verified RF performance data, package interface details, thermal limits, ESD robustness (Class 1C), and real-world mixer substitution guidance - all validated against official Analog Devices documentation.

Technical Context

The HMC292LC3B is a fundamental passive mixer with no DC bias required, relying on optimized balun structures to achieve high LO-to-RF (40 dB typ) and LO-to-IF (32 dB typ) isolation across its full 16–30 GHz band. Its operation requires LO drive ≥+9 dBm and supports both upconversion and downconversion without external matching components.

It features DC-coupled RF, LO, and IF ports matched to 50 Ω over frequency, with N/C pins (10–12) optionally grounded. The device operates from –40°C to +85°C, has 250 °C/W junction-to-ground thermal resistance, and is rated for continuous dissipation of 260 mW at 85°C ambient.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

12-lead ceramic 3×3 mm leadless SMT package (9 mm² footprint) with alumina body, gold-over-nickel plating, and exposed ground paddle requiring solder connection to PCB RF ground per MSL3 reflow profile (peak 260°C).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with HMC292LC3B, HMC1048LP3E trades bandwidth extension for slightly degraded conversion loss, while QPC1006 delivers superior linearity and IF bandwidth at the cost of tighter LO drive requirements - both require validation of balun layout and grounding for optimal isolation.

Availability

HMC292LC3B is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for point-to-point radios, test equipment & sensors, and military end-use applications requiring stable component supply, consistent RF performance, and long-term obsolescence management.

Supply support for HMC292LC3B 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 MMIC solutions for defense, communications, and instrumentation markets.

The HMC292LC3B belongs to Hittite's legacy passive mixer product line, designed specifically for millimeter-wave wireless infrastructure and test systems requiring zero-bias operation, high isolation, and surface-mount manufacturability.

FAQ

Does the HMC292LC3B require DC bias for operation?

No, the HMC292LC3B is a passive double-balanced mixer and requires no DC bias. All ports (RF, LO, IF) are DC-coupled and internally matched to 50 Ω across 16–30 GHz, eliminating external bias tees, blocking capacitors, or matching networks. This simplifies design and improves broadband performance - a key feature confirmed in the official Analog Devices datasheet for HMC292LC3B.

What is the minimum LO drive level required for specified performance of the HMC292LC3B?

The HMC292LC3B requires a minimum LO drive level of +9 dBm to achieve datasheet-specified conversion loss, isolation, and linearity. Performance degrades below this threshold, with conversion loss increasing and IP3 dropping significantly. The HMC292LC3B is characterized at +13 dBm LO drive, and operation up to +15 dBm is supported within absolute maximum ratings.

Can the HMC292LC3B be used for both upconversion and downconversion?

Yes, the HMC292LC3B is bidirectional and functions equally well as an upconverter or downconverter. Its symmetric double-balanced topology and DC-coupled ports allow flexible RF/IF assignment - for example, applying RF signal to Pin 8 and extracting IF from Pin 5 (downconversion), or injecting IF into Pin 5 and extracting RF from Pin 8 (upconversion), as documented for HMC292LC3B in the functional description.

What is the thermal resistance and power dissipation limit of the HMC292LC3B?

The HMC292LC3B has a junction-to-ground thermal resistance of 250 °C/W and a maximum continuous power dissipation of 260 mW at 85°C ambient. Above 85°C, dissipation must be derated by 4.0 mW/°C. Proper thermal management - including soldering the exposed ground paddle to a large copper area with multiple thermal vias - is essential to maintain reliability and avoid exceeding the 150°C channel temperature limit of HMC292LC3B.

Is the HMC292LC3B pin-compatible with other Hittite mixer packages like the HMC1048LP3E?

Yes, the HMC292LC3B shares the same 12-lead 3×3 mm ceramic package footprint and pinout configuration as the HMC1048LP3E, enabling drop-in replacement in many layouts. However, differences in RF/LO frequency coverage, conversion loss, and LO drive sensitivity mean electrical validation is required - the HMC292LC3B is not a guaranteed functional substitute without system-level testing under actual HMC292LC3B operating conditions.