My Inquiry
My Account
Analog Devices Inc. HMC292LM3C
- Part No.:
- HMC292LM3C
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc.
- Category:
- RF Mixers
- Package:
- 6-TQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
HMC292LM3C.pdf
- Description:
- IC MMIC MIXER HI IP3 CERAMIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:1,804
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
HMC292LM3C from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a GaAs MMIC double-balanced mixer operating from 17 to 31 GHz RF/LO and DC–6 GHz IF, with +19 dBm input IP3, 9.5 dB typical conversion loss, and no DC bias required. It serves as a passive upconverter or downconverter in millimeter-wave radio front-ends.
For engineers reviewing the HMC292LM3C datasheet, HMC292LM3C pinout, HMC292LM3C application, or HMC292LM3C equivalent, key selection criteria include its LO/RF isolation (26–35 dB), RF/IF return loss (>15 dB across band), leadless LM3C package compatibility with GSG probing, and operation without external baluns or bias networks.
Technical Context
The HMC292LM3C integrates on-chip baluns enabling true double-balanced operation, eliminating external transformers and supporting both upconversion and downconversion without DC power. Its passive architecture relies on GaAs Schottky diode pairs monolithically fabricated for consistent mmWave performance.
Designed for surface-mount integration in 50 Ω test fixtures, the device delivers stable conversion gain and isolation across –40°C to +85°C, with RF/LO ports DC-coupled and matched from 18–31 GHz, and IF port DC-coupled with ≤2 mA current limit for DC-capable operation.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Frequency Range (RF/LO) | 17–31 GHz - Full operational bandwidth without external tuning or matching networks |
| Frequency Range (IF) | DC–6 GHz - Supports baseband through L-band IF interfaces with DC coupling capability |
| Conversion Loss | 7.5–11 dB (typ. 9.5 dB @ LO=+13 dBm) - Defines signal attenuation between RF and IF paths under standard drive |
| Input IP3 | +17 to +19 dBm (typ. +19 dBm) - Indicates third-order intermodulation distortion performance in receiver front-ends |
| LO–RF Isolation | 26–35 dB (typ.) - Limits LO leakage into antenna path, critical for transmitter spectral purity |
| Operating Temp | –40°C to +85°C - Validated performance range for outdoor microwave radios and SATCOM terminals |
| ESD Rating | HBM Class 1C (<500 V) - Requires strict ESD handling during PCB assembly and test |
Pinout & Package
The HMC292LM3C uses a leadless SMT chip carrier (LM3C) package measuring 25 mm², with gold-over-nickel plating and plastic body. All ground contacts must be soldered to PCB RF ground per layout guidelines.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1, 2, 3 | No Connect | May be tied to housing ground or left floating; no electrical function in signal path |
| 4 | RF Port | DC-coupled 50 Ω interface, functional from 18–31 GHz; requires no external matching |
| 5 | IF Port | DC-coupled; supports DC–6 GHz; must not source/sink >2 mA to prevent damage |
| 6 | LO Port | DC-coupled 50 Ω interface, functional from 18–31 GHz; accepts +13 dBm nominal drive |
| GND (package base) | RF Ground Reference | Entire bottom metallization must be soldered to PCB ground plane for impedance control and thermal dissipation |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Passive double-balanced architecture | Eliminates need for external baluns, DC bias, or active components-reducing BOM count and layout complexity |
| On-chip balun integration | Enables >25 dB LO–RF and LO–IF isolation without discrete transformers or ferrites |
| Leadless LM3C SMT package | Supports GSG probe testing and 2.4 mm coaxial housing integration; compatible with high-volume reflow assembly |
| DC-coupled RF/LO/IF ports | Enables direct connection to baseband ICs or broadband amplifiers without AC coupling capacitors in critical paths |
| Qualified reflow profile | Withstands peak temperature of 235°C for 15 s-validated for compatibility with standard Pb-free PCB assembly |
Applications
| Microwave Point-to-Point Radios | Multi-Point/LMDS Radios |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: 23 GHz licensed backhaul link transmitting 256-QAM over 5 km with <1 ms latency. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Downconverter translating 23 GHz RF to 1.5 GHz IF for demodulation; also used in transmit path as upconverter. Use Value: 9.5 dB conversion loss and +19 dBm IP3 maintain EVM <3% under adjacent-channel interference. | Use Scenario: Fixed wireless access node serving 12 subscribers in 28 GHz unlicensed band with TDD duplexing. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional mixer in shared RF front-end-switched between Rx and Tx modes via LO routing. Use Value: >30 dB LO–RF isolation prevents Tx noise from desensitizing Rx chain during TDD guard intervals. |
| SATCOM Terminals | Millimeter-Wave Test Equipment |
Use Scenario: Mobile maritime VSAT terminal operating in 29.5–30.0 GHz uplink and 17.7–20.2 GHz downlink bands. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual-band downconverter in receive chain; LO driven by synthesizer at fLO = fRF − fIF. Use Value: DC–6 GHz IF bandwidth accommodates wide instantaneous channel bandwidths up to 500 MHz. | Use Scenario: Calibration module in vector network analyzer extension unit covering 18–30 GHz. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Active signal path component in calibrated reference mixer stage for harmonic mixing and phase-coherent measurement. Use Value: Consistent 25 mm² LM3C footprint enables repeatable probe contact and traceable S-parameter de-embedding. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar double-balanced mixer applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| HMC1048LP3E | Wider IF bandwidth (DC–12 GHz), higher LO drive (+15 dBm), larger 4×4 mm QFN package | Better suited for wideband IF digitization; less compact for space-constrained mmWave modules | Select when IF bandwidth >6 GHz or higher LO power margin is required |
| QPC1006 | SiGe process, 24–34 GHz RF range, +15 dBm IP3, requires external baluns | Lower cost but adds layout complexity and insertion loss; narrower IP3 dynamic range | Select for cost-sensitive designs where 4 dB lower IP3 and added balun design effort are acceptable |
Compared with HMC292LM3C, HMC1048LP3E offers extended IF bandwidth at the expense of larger footprint and higher LO drive, while QPC1006 trades integration and linearity for SiGe cost advantages-neither is pin-compatible, and all require unique PCB layout and matching networks.
Availability
HMC292LM3C is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for microwave point-to-point radios, SATCOM terminals, and millimeter-wave test equipment requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and high-frequency performance consistency.
Supply support for HMC292LM3C 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, integrating its high-frequency RF/Microwave portfolio into ADI's broader signal chain solutions.
The HMC292LM3C belongs to Hittite's LM3C-series passive MMIC mixers, designed specifically for compact, high-reliability millimeter-wave communication systems operating above 18 GHz without DC power or external passive components.
FAQ
What is the maximum LO drive level for the HMC292LM3C?
The absolute maximum LO drive level for the HMC292LM3C is +27 dBm, as specified in the Absolute Maximum Ratings table. However, typical operation uses +13 dBm LO drive to achieve optimal conversion loss (9.5 dB) and IP3 (+19 dBm). Exceeding +15 dBm may increase distortion without improving gain and risks long-term reliability degradation.
Does the HMC292LM3C require external baluns or bias circuitry?
No, the HMC292LM3C does not require external baluns or bias circuitry. Its on-chip baluns enable full double-balanced operation, and it is a passive GaAs MMIC mixer with no DC power connections. The HMC292LM3C operates solely with RF, LO, and IF signal connections-all DC-coupled-and eliminates the need for bias tees, transformers, or active bias networks.
Can the HMC292LM3C be used for DC-coupled IF operation?
Yes, the HMC292LM3C supports DC-coupled IF operation via Pin 5, but strict current limits apply: the IF port must not source or sink more than 2 mA. Exceeding this can cause non-function or permanent die failure. For AC-coupled applications above ~100 kHz, a series capacitor sized for the target IF bandwidth may be used instead.
What is the recommended PCB grounding method for the HMC292LM3C?
The entire package base (GND) of the HMC292LM3C must be soldered to the PCB RF ground plane using the recommended land pattern with ±0.003" tolerance. Ground vias should be placed within 2 mm of each corner, and the ground plane must be solid and uninterrupted beneath the device. This ensures controlled 50 Ω impedance, minimizes parasitic inductance, and maintains specified isolation and return loss performance from 17–31 GHz.
Is the HMC292LM3C suitable for both upconversion and downconversion?
Yes, the HMC292LM3C is fully bidirectional and suitable for both upconversion and downconversion. Its symmetric double-balanced architecture allows RF and LO ports to be interchanged depending on system architecture-e.g., applying signal to RF and LO to generate IF (downconversion), or applying baseband to IF and LO to generate RF (upconversion), as confirmed in the General Description and Functional Diagram sections of the datasheet.
HMC292LM3C Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc.
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 6-TQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Strip
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- RF Type:
- General Purpose
- Frequency:
- 17GHz ~ 31GHz
- Number of Mixers:
- 1
- Gain:
- -
- Noise Figure:
- 8dB
- Secondary Attributes:
- Up/Down Converter
- Current - Supply:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 6-SMT (5.08x5.08)
HMC292LM3C FAQ
1.How can I place an order for HMC292LM3C through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for HMC292LM3C 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 HMC292LM3C reliable?
The price and inventory of HMC292LM3C are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for HMC292LM3C is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for HMC292LM3C?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for HMC292LM3C transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for HMC292LM3C?
HMC292LM3C orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your HMC292LM3C 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 HMC292LM3C?
For technical support, including HMC292LM3C datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your HMC292LM3C requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that HMC292LM3C is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All HMC292LM3C 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 HMC292LM3C meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of HMC292LM3C?
All HMC292LM3C units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with HMC292LM3C, 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 HMC292LM3C part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for HMC292LM3C:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
HMC292LM3C Tags
-
MAX2671EUT+T
Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
-
ADEX-10+
Mini-Circuits
-
ADE-2+
Mini-Circuits
-
ADE-1+
Mini-Circuits
-
LT5560EDD#PBF
Analog Devices Inc.
-
LT5560EDD#TRPBF
Analog Devices Inc.
-
LTC5562IUC#TRPBF
Analog Devices Inc.
-
MAX2681EUT+T
Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
-
ADE-1ASK+
Mini-Circuits
-
ADE-1L+
Mini-Circuits
-
ADL5350ACPZ-R7
Analog Devices Inc.
-
AD608ARZ-RL
Analog Devices Inc.
Tech Hub
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
Operational amplifier guide covering op amp basics, feedback, ideal vs real op amps, common configurations, buffer circuits, offset, bias current, gain-bandwidth, slew rate, rail-to-rail limits and sel…
Jumper cables guide covering safe connection order, red and black clamp placement, final ground connection, cable gauge, length, clamp quality, copper vs CCA cables, jump starter comparison and battery…
