Analog Devices Inc. HMC339

Overview

HMC339 from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a GaAs MMIC sub-harmonically pumped (×2) mixer with integrated LO amplifier, operating as an upconverter or downconverter in 33–42 GHz RF systems. It delivers 10–13 dB conversion loss, >37 dB 2LO-to-RF isolation, +2 dBm nominal LO drive, and 1.32 × 0.81 × 0.1 mm die size for millimeter-wave microwave radios and satellite communications.

For engineers reviewing the HMC339 datasheet, HMC339 pinout, HMC339 application, or HMC339 equivalent, this page provides verified electrical specifications, die-level mounting guidance, Vdd biasing requirements, and real-world performance data measured at IF = 1 GHz and TA = +25°C with 50 Ω test fixtures and <0.31 mm ribbon bonds.

Technical Context

The HMC339 implements a sub-harmonic (×2) LO architecture requiring LO input at half the RF frequency (e.g., 19 GHz LO for 38 GHz RF), eliminating need for high-frequency LO sources. Its integrated two-stage GaAs PHEMT LO amplifier operates from +3V to +4V with only +2 dBm input drive.

Measured performance includes DC–3 GHz IF bandwidth, >27 dB 2LO-to-RF isolation across full 33–42 GHz band, and input-referred 1 dB compression point of –4 to 0 dBm at Vdd = +4V. All RF, LO, and IF ports are impedance-matched to 50 Ω with AC-coupled RF/LO and DC-coupled IF requiring external blocking capacitor.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: Bare die, 1.32 × 0.81 × 0.1 mm, gold metallized bond pads (0.100 mm²), backside grounded, supplied in GP-2 gel pack.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with HMC339, HMC1048 trades integrated LO drive for wider bandwidth and relaxed LO sourcing, while QM11030 offers superior power handling at the cost of higher bias voltage and reduced integration density-making HMC339 optimal for compact, low-LO-drive, high-isolation E-band receiver designs.

Availability

HMC339 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for 33–42 GHz microwave radios, satellite communication transceivers, and millimeter-wave test equipment requiring stable component supply, traceable lot control, and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for HMC339 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 markets.

The HMC339 belongs to the Hittite legacy MMIC mixer product line, designed specifically for E-band wireless infrastructure and satellite systems demanding high isolation, low LO drive, and compact die form factors.

FAQ

What is the recommended LO drive level for optimal performance of the HMC339?

The HMC339 achieves specified conversion loss, noise figure, and isolation with +2 dBm LO drive at Vdd = +4V. Performance degrades above +4 dBm due to LO amplifier compression; below 0 dBm, conversion gain drops significantly. The datasheet confirms +2 dBm as nominal drive for all published RF/IF/LO isolation and linearity metrics, making it the target for bias network design and LO source calibration.

Can the HMC339 be used as both an upconverter and downconverter?

Yes, the HMC339 is bidirectional: it functions as a downconverter (RF→IF) or upconverter (IF→RF) depending on signal routing. The functional diagram and measured upconverter performance data (e.g., spurious levels at RF port with IF = 1 GHz input) confirm symmetric operation. No internal configuration changes are needed-only external matching and filtering differ per mode.

What is the maximum allowable DC voltage on the IF pin of the HMC339?

Zero volts DC. The IF pin is DC-coupled internally, and any applied DC voltage will cause die non-function and possible permanent failure. External DC blocking capacitors must be placed in series with the IF path, sized to pass the full DC–3 GHz IF bandwidth without attenuation. This requirement is explicitly stated in the Pad Descriptions section of the HMC339 datasheet.

What package options are available for the HMC339?

The HMC339 is supplied exclusively as a bare die in GP-2 gel pack format. No leaded, QFN, or laminate-based packaged variants exist. Alternate packaging (e.g., chip-and-wire in ceramic carrier) requires direct coordination with Analog Devices' custom solutions group and is not orderable through standard distribution channels.

How does the HMC339's 2LO-to-RF isolation impact system-level filter design?

The HMC339's >37 dB typical 2LO-to-RF isolation reduces or eliminates the need for external bandpass filters between the LO source and RF port. In contrast, mixers with <25 dB isolation typically require cavity or LTCC filters to suppress 2LO leakage, adding insertion loss and board area. This high isolation directly simplifies front-end architecture and improves overall receiver noise figure in HMC339-based designs.