Analog Devices Inc. HMC526LC4

Overview

HMC526LC4 from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a GaAs MMIC I/Q mixer operating as an image-reject mixer (IRM) or single-sideband upconverter in the 6–10 GHz RF/LO band, with DC–3.5 GHz IF bandwidth, 40 dB image rejection, and +28 dBm input IP3 - used in point-to-point radios and military RF front-ends.

For engineers reviewing the HMC526LC4 datasheet, HMC526LC4 pinout, HMC526LC4 application, or HMC526LC4 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 24-lead 4×4 mm SMT package, LO-to-RF isolation of 50 dB, amplitude/phase balance (±0.2 dB / ±5°), and compatibility with surface-mount manufacturing without wire bonding.

Technical Context

The HMC526LC4 integrates two double-balanced GaAs MESFET mixer cells and an on-die 90° hybrid to enable quadrature mixing; it supports both downconversion (as IRM) and upconversion (SSB) modes with external IF hybrid or internal IF path depending on configuration.

It delivers broadband IF response from DC to 3.5 GHz, operates with +19 dBm LO drive, and maintains specified performance across −40°C to +85°C ambient temperature while requiring all ground pins and the exposed paddle to be soldered to PCB RF ground.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24-lead leadless RoHS-compliant SMT package (4×4 mm, 16 mm² alumina body); gold-over-nickel plating; MSL3 rating; requires soldering of all ground leads and exposed paddle to PCB RF ground per datasheet layout rules.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar I/Q mixer applications.

Compared with HMC8192LP5E and ADL5387ACPZ-R7, the HMC526LC4 offers optimal trade-off of compact size (4×4 mm), high linearity (+28 dBm IP3), and proven 6–10 GHz performance in space-constrained military and point-to-point radio designs.

Availability

HMC526LC4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for point-to-point radios, VSAT terminals, and military radar receivers requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle assurance, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for HMC526LC4 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 continues its high-frequency RF IC product line with focus on defense, communications, and instrumentation markets.

The HMC526LC4 belongs to Hittite's GaAs MMIC I/Q mixer family, designed specifically for compact, high-performance RF front-ends in microwave communication systems requiring image suppression and surface-mount manufacturability.

FAQ

What is the recommended LO drive level for optimal performance of the HMC526LC4?

The HMC526LC4 achieves best image rejection, conversion loss, and IP3 at +19 dBm LO drive. Performance degrades outside ±2 dB of this level: lower drive increases conversion loss and reduces IP3; higher drive raises distortion and may exceed absolute maximum ratings. All electrical specifications in the datasheet assume +19 dBm LO input unless otherwise noted. The HMC526LC4 must not be operated above +27 dBm LO to avoid permanent damage.

Can the HMC526LC4 be used as both an upconverter and downconverter?

Yes, the HMC526LC4 functions as either an image-reject downconverter (IRM) or single-sideband upconverter depending on signal routing. As an IRM, RF is input and I/Q IF outputs are taken; as an upconverter, I/Q IF signals are injected and RF output is extracted. The HMC526LC4 datasheet provides separate performance curves for both modes, confirming validated operation in both directions across 6–10 GHz.

Does the HMC526LC4 require external IF hybrids for I/Q operation?

No - the HMC526LC4 integrates the 90° hybrid on-die, eliminating need for external IF hybrids in standard configurations. External hybrids are only required when using the HMC526LC4 in certain upconverter test setups or when custom IF phase alignment is needed. The HMC526LC4's internal hybrid delivers ±5° phase balance and ±0.2 dB amplitude balance over its full IF bandwidth.

What is the maximum allowable current on the IF1 and IF2 pins of the HMC526LC4?

The IF1 and IF2 pins of the HMC526LC4 are DC-coupled and must not source or sink more than ±3 mA of current. Exceeding this limit risks non-function or permanent damage due to internal bias network overload. For AC-coupled applications, external series capacitors should be selected to pass the required IF band (e.g., 100 nF for 100 kHz–3.5 GHz). The HMC526LC4 specification sheet explicitly states this current limit in the Absolute Maximum Ratings table.

Is the HMC526LC4 pin-compatible with other Hittite I/Q mixers like the HMC525LC4?

No - the HMC526LC4 is not pin-compatible with the HMC525LC4 or other members of the HMC5xx LC4 family. While both use 24-lead 4×4 mm packages, their pin functions differ: the HMC525LC4 has separate I/Q inputs and a common IF output, whereas the HMC526LC4 has RF/LO inputs and dual I/Q outputs. Layout redesign is required when substituting between these devices. The HMC526LC4 pinout is unique and defined in its official datasheet revision v04.0514.