Analog Devices Inc. HMC426MS8E

Overview

HMC426MS8E from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a SiGe MMIC static frequency divider with divide-by-4 functionality, operating from DC (square-wave input) to 4.0 GHz input frequency on a single +3 V supply at 13 mA. It delivers +3.5 dBm typical output power at 1 GHz, achieves -146 dBc/Hz SSB phase noise at 100 kHz offset (Fin = 3 GHz), and is housed in an RoHS-compliant MS8 surface-mount package. It serves as a prescaler in high-frequency PLL systems for wireless infrastructure.

For engineers reviewing the HMC426MS8E datasheet, HMC426MS8E pinout, HMC426MS8E application, or HMC426MS8E equivalent, key selection criteria include its ultra-low phase noise performance, wide -15 to +10 dBm input power range across 0.5–4 GHz, DC-to-4 GHz operational bandwidth, +3 V single-supply operation, and compatibility with RF prescaler designs requiring stable division ratio and minimal additive jitter.

Technical Context

The HMC426MS8E implements a static CMOS-compatible divide-by-4 architecture using SiGe heterojunction bipolar transistor (HBT) technology, enabling operation down to DC with square-wave inputs and up to 4.0 GHz with sine-wave inputs. Its differential input structure (pins 2 and 3) supports both single-ended and balanced drive configurations, while the output is single-ended at pin 7.

It features internal biasing optimized for +3 V ±0.3 V supply, draws only 13 mA at nominal conditions, and maintains output transition time of 400 ps at 500 MHz. Reverse isolation exceeds 25 dB, and harmonic suppression is specified across fundamental and divided bands - critical for minimizing spurious feedthrough in synthesizer front-ends.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: RoHS-compliant MS8 surface-mount plastic package (8-lead, exposed paddle), matte tin lead finish, MSL1 rating, max reflow temperature 260 °C.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar frequency divider applications.

Compared with HMC363LP4E and HMC492LP3E, the HMC426MS8E offers optimal balance of low phase noise (-146 dBc/Hz), 4 GHz bandwidth, and low-power +3 V operation - making it preferred for cost- and power-sensitive 2–4 GHz wireless infrastructure prescalers where strict spectral purity is required.

Availability

HMC426MS8E is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for DBS/CATV tuners, 802.11x WLAN radios, fixed wireless access units, microwave point-to-point links, and VSAT terminal designs requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence mitigation.

Supply support for HMC426MS8E 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 integrates its high-frequency RF MMIC portfolio into precision RF signal chain solutions.

The HMC426MS8E belongs to Hittite's legacy SMT SiGe MMIC frequency divider family, engineered specifically for low-noise, high-speed prescaling in microwave communication synthesizers and test equipment.

FAQ

What is the maximum input frequency supported by the HMC426MS8E?

The HMC426MS8E supports a maximum input frequency of 4.0 GHz under typical operating conditions, with absolute maximum ratings extending to 4.5 GHz. It operates from DC when driven with a square-wave input signal, making it suitable for both analog RF and digital clock domain applications. Input signal type (sine vs. square) directly affects the usable lower and upper frequency boundaries as defined in the electrical specifications table.

Does the HMC426MS8E require external biasing or can it operate from a single supply?

The HMC426MS8E operates from a single +3 V ±0.3 V DC supply applied to pin 1 (VCC) and draws 13 mA typical current - no external bias network or negative supply is needed. Internal biasing is fully integrated, and the device requires only proper RF decoupling: a 4.7 µF tantalum capacitor and parallel 100 pF ceramic capacitor at the VCC pin, as shown in the application circuit.

Can the HMC426MS8E be used in differential input mode?

Yes, the HMC426MS8E supports differential input operation using pins 2 and 3, which are 180° out of phase. For differential drive, both pins accept balanced RF signals; for single-ended use, pin 3 must be AC-grounded while pin 2 receives the input. This dual-mode flexibility simplifies integration with various oscillator types including push-push, cross-coupled, and transformer-coupled VCOs.

What is the output waveform shape and transition time of the HMC426MS8E?

The HMC426MS8E produces a square-wave output at pin 7 with a typical transition time of 400 ps measured at 500 MHz output frequency and 0 dBm input power. The output is single-ended and intended for 50 Ω terminated loads. Output voltage swing is approximately ±250 mV (500 mV peak-to-peak) into 50 Ω, as confirmed by the output waveform plot in the datasheet.

Is the HMC426MS8E still in active production or marked obsolete?

The HMC426MS8E is marked OBSOLETE in the official Analog Devices documentation, indicating it is no longer in active production. However, Aetrix Electronics maintains inventory and offers lifecycle availability coordination, including last-time buy support and cross-reference assistance for drop-in or functionally aligned alternatives where design migration is required.