Analog Devices Inc. HMC338LC3BTR

Overview

HMC338LC3BTR from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a GaAs MMIC sub-harmonically pumped (x2) mixer with integrated LO amplifier, operating 24–34 GHz RF, 11.5–16.5 GHz LO, and DC–3 GHz IF. It delivers 15 dB typical conversion loss, 30 dB 2LO-to-RF isolation, and operates from a single +4 V supply drawing 31 mA - ideal for millimeter-wave point-to-point radios and SATCOM transceivers.

For engineers reviewing the HMC338LC3BTR datasheet, HMC338LC3BTR pinout, HMC338LC3BTR application, or HMC338LC3BTR equivalent, key selection criteria include its 2LO-pumped architecture eliminating external LO doublers, DC-blocked 50 Ω RF/LO ports, wide IF bandwidth supporting baseband-to-3 GHz, and 12-lead 3×3 mm SMT package enabling high-frequency surface-mount assembly without wire bonding.

Technical Context

The HMC338LC3BTR implements a double-balanced sub-harmonic mixing topology where the LO signal is applied at half the fundamental frequency (e.g., 15 GHz LO pumps 30 GHz RF), reducing LO generation complexity. Its integrated GaAs LO amplifier accepts -5 dBm drive and operates from +3 V to +4 V, delivering stable gain across temperature.

RF and LO ports are internally DC-blocked and impedance-matched to 50 Ω; the IF port is DC-coupled but requires external series AC coupling. The device supports both upconversion and downconversion modes, with spurious output data confirmed for 1RF−2LO and 1IF−2LO products across its full band.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 12-lead 3×3 mm leadless ceramic SMT (alumina body, gold-over-nickel plating, MSL3). Ground paddle must be soldered to PCB RF ground plane via multiple vias.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with HMC338LC3BTR, HMC1048LC3B offers wider frequency coverage but increases system complexity with external LO drive, while QM11030 reduces bill-of-materials cost but sacrifices verified 2LO suppression critical for interference-sensitive SATCOM and EW systems.

Availability

HMC338LC3BTR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for point-to-point radios, SATCOM terminals, and military radar front-ends requiring stable component supply, RoHS-compliant SMT packaging, and guaranteed millimeter-wave performance.

Supply support for HMC338LC3BTR 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 RFIC portfolio, specializing in microwave/mmWave components for defense, communications, and instrumentation.

The HMC338LC3BTR belongs to Hittite's legacy GaAs MMIC mixer product line, designed specifically for E-band wireless infrastructure and aerospace applications demanding high isolation, wide IF bandwidth, and simplified LO architecture.

FAQ

What is the recommended LO drive level for optimal performance of the HMC338LC3BTR?

The HMC338LC3BTR is specified for nominal -5 dBm LO drive at +4 V supply, delivering 15 dB typical conversion loss and 30 dB 2LO-to-RF isolation. Drive levels from -7 dBm to -3 dBm are supported, but deviation outside this range degrades IP3 and increases conversion loss variation across frequency. Always verify LO power at the HMC338LC3BTR pin using calibrated RF measurement.

Can the HMC338LC3BTR be used in upconversion mode, and what IF bandwidth is supported?

Yes, the HMC338LC3BTR supports both upconversion and downconversion. In upconverter mode, it accepts DC–3 GHz IF input and generates RF output at 2×LO ± IF. Measured spurious data (e.g., 1IF−2LO) confirms functional operation across the full IF band, making it suitable for direct IF-to-RF modulation in E-band transmitters.

Is external DC blocking required on the IF port of the HMC338LC3BTR?

Yes - the IF port is DC-coupled, and any DC voltage applied to Pin 5 will cause die malfunction or permanent failure. A series AC-coupling capacitor (e.g., 100 pF for DC–3 GHz) must be placed externally between the IF port and downstream circuitry to ensure safe operation and preserve bandwidth.

What thermal management is required for continuous operation of the HMC338LC3BTR?

The HMC338LC3BTR has a junction-to-ground-paddle thermal resistance of 397 °C/W. For reliable operation at +85 °C ambient, the exposed ground paddle must be soldered to a multilayer PCB ground plane with ≥6 thermal vias (0.3 mm diameter) connecting to inner/outer ground layers. Without this, channel temperature may exceed 175 °C maximum rating under full +4 V/31 mA bias.

Does the HMC338LC3BTR require matching networks on RF or LO ports?

No - both RF (Pin 8) and LO (Pin 2) ports are internally DC-blocked and matched to 50 Ω across 24–34 GHz and 11.5–16.5 GHz respectively. Standard 50 Ω microstrip routing is sufficient; no external matching components are needed unless board-level discontinuities (e.g., connector transitions) introduce VSWR degradation above 1.5:1.