Analog Devices Inc. HMC558LC3BTR-R5

Overview

HMC558LC3BTR-R5 from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a GaAs MMIC double-balanced passive mixer operating from 5.5 to 14.0 GHz RF/LO and DC–6 GHz IF, delivering 7 dB typical conversion loss, 45 dB LO-to-RF isolation, and +24 dBm input IP3 - ideal for microwave up/downconversion in point-to-point radios and test equipment.

For engineers reviewing the HMC558LC3BTR-R5 datasheet, HMC558LC3BTR-R5 pinout, HMC558LC3BTR-R5 application, or HMC558LC3BTR-R5 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 12-lead 3×3 mm ceramic SMT package, LO drive sensitivity down to +9 dBm, no external matching requirement, and RoHS-compliant leadless construction compatible with high-volume reflow assembly.

Technical Context

The HMC558LC3BTR-R5 implements a passive double-balanced topology using GaAs MESFET process technology, enabling fundamental-mode mixing without DC bias or external components. Its integrated balun structures provide inherent LO-to-RF and LO-to-IF isolation across the full 5.5–14 GHz band.

It operates as both upconverter and downconverter with DC-coupled LO, RF, and IF ports, supporting IF bandwidths to 6 GHz and requiring only 50 Ω terminations. Thermal resistance is 307 °C/W (channel-to-ground paddle), with maximum channel temperature rated at 150 °C.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

12-lead leadless ceramic SMT package (3×3 mm, 9 mm² body), alumina substrate, gold-over-nickel plating, MSL3 rating, bottom ground paddle requiring solder connection to PCB RF ground.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with HMC558LC3BTR-R5, HMC1048LP3E extends frequency range at the cost of conversion loss, while QPC1006 improves linearity and LO sensitivity but demands mechanical redesign - making HMC558LC3BTR-R5 optimal for cost-sensitive, space-constrained 6–12 GHz systems requiring proven balance of performance and manufacturability.

Availability

HMC558LC3BTR-R5 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for point-to-point radios, test equipment, and military communications systems requiring stable component supply, consistent RF performance, and long-term obsolescence management.

Supply support for HMC558LC3BTR-R5 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 portfolio into precision analog and RF solutions for communications, defense, and instrumentation markets.

The HMC558LC3BTR-R5 belongs to Hittite's legacy GaAs MMIC mixer family, designed specifically for fundamental-mode microwave mixing in compact, high-reliability SMT systems without external matching networks.

FAQ

What is the recommended LO drive level for optimal performance of the HMC558LC3BTR-R5?

The HMC558LC3BTR-R5 achieves best conversion loss and isolation at +15 dBm LO drive, but operates reliably from +9 dBm to +25 dBm. At +9 dBm, conversion loss increases by ~1.5 dB versus +15 dBm, while IP3 degrades by ~3 dB. For battery-powered or low-power LO designs, +12 dBm offers a balanced trade-off between efficiency and linearity in the HMC558LC3BTR-R5.

Can the HMC558LC3BTR-R5 be used for zero-IF (direct-conversion) receiver applications?

Yes, the HMC558LC3BTR-R5 supports zero-IF operation due to its DC–6 GHz IF bandwidth and DC-coupled IF port. However, the IF output must not source or sink more than ±2 mA to avoid damage. External DC blocking is required if the downstream stage cannot tolerate DC offset; otherwise, the HMC558LC3BTR-R5 enables true baseband translation without IF filtering.

Does the HMC558LC3BTR-R5 require external matching components or bias tees?

No, the HMC558LC3BTR-R5 requires no external matching, bias tees, or DC blocking on LO or RF ports - all are 50 Ω DC-coupled. The device is fully self-contained: only proper RF grounding of all GND pins and the exposed paddle is needed. This eliminates tuning complexity and makes the HMC558LC3BTR-R5 suitable for rapid prototyping and high-volume manufacturing.

What is the thermal management requirement for continuous operation of the HMC558LC3BTR-R5?

The HMC558LC3BTR-R5 has a thermal resistance of 307 °C/W (channel-to-ground paddle). At 85 °C ambient and 211 mW max dissipation, junction temperature reaches ~150 °C - its absolute maximum. To ensure reliability, maintain PCB ground paddle solder coverage ≥90%, use ≥6 thermal vias under the paddle, and limit ambient to ≤70 °C for sustained +25 dBm RF/LO input in the HMC558LC3BTR-R5.

Is the HMC558LC3BTR-R5 pin-compatible with other Hittite mixer variants like HMC558LC3?

Yes, the HMC558LC3BTR-R5 shares identical pinout, package dimensions, and terminal functions with the non-tray version HMC558LC3. Both use the same 12-lead 3×3 mm ceramic SMT package with GND on pins 1/3/4/6/7/9, LO on pin 2, IF on pin 5, RF on pin 8, and N/C on pins 10/11/12 - enabling drop-in replacement in existing layouts designed for the HMC558LC3BTR-R5 or HMC558LC3.