Analog Devices Inc. HMC641ALC4TR

Overview

HMC641ALC4TR from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a GaAs pHEMT SP4T non-reflective MMIC switch in a 4×4 mm ceramic SMT package, operating from DC to 20 GHz. It delivers 2.1 dB insertion loss and 42 dB isolation at 12 GHz, with integrated 2:4 TTL decoder and on-chip termination for isolated ports-ideal for microwave radio front-ends requiring fast, low-power RF path selection.

For engineers reviewing the HMC641ALC4TR datasheet, HMC641ALC4TR pinout, HMC641ALC4TR application, or HMC641ALC4TR equivalent, key selection criteria include broadband DC–20 GHz performance, -5 V logic compatibility, 30 ns rise/fall time, non-reflective architecture, and thermal resistance of 201 °C/W on insertion-loss path.

Technical Context

The HMC641ALC4TR implements a monolithic GaAs pHEMT design with non-reflective topology, enabling simultaneous 50 Ω match across all RF ports in both on- and off-states. Its integrated binary decoder reduces control lines from four to two (CTLA/CTLB), accepting TTL/CMOS-compatible 0/−5 V logic inputs.

It operates with −5 Vdc ±10% supply (Vss), draws only 1.8 mA typical quiescent current, and maintains stable RF performance across −40 °C to +85 °C. Switching is edge-triggered with 100 ns turn-on/off delay and 30 ns RF transition time over full frequency range.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 4×4 mm ceramic SMT with alumina body, gold-over-nickel plating, MSL3 rating, and exposed ground paddle requiring solder connection to PCB RF ground.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar SP4T RF switch applications.

Compared with HMC641LP4E and QM11036, the HMC641ALC4TR offers superior hermetic reliability, tighter insertion loss, integrated decoder, and −5 V logic compatibility-making it optimal for high-reliability microwave infrastructure where layout density and thermal stability are critical.

Availability

HMC641ALC4TR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for microwave radio transceivers, VSAT outdoor units, and test instrumentation requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for HMC641ALC4TR 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 legacy of high-frequency RF ICs for defense, communications, and instrumentation markets.

The HMC641ALC4TR belongs to Hittite's GaAs MMIC SP4T switch product line, engineered for broadband, high-isolation RF path selection in demanding microwave systems where reliability and signal integrity are non-negotiable.

FAQ

What is the recommended PCB grounding strategy for HMC641ALC4TR?

For optimal RF performance, all ground pins (2,4,7,9,10,12,17,19,21,22,24) and the exposed ground paddle must be soldered directly to a solid RF ground plane using ≥8 thermal vias within 2 mm of the paddle edge. The HMC641ALC4TR evaluation board (EVAL01-HMC641ALC4) uses Rogers 4350 substrate with 50 Ω controlled impedance traces and dense via stitching-this layout is strongly recommended for production designs.

Does HMC641ALC4TR require external DC blocking capacitors?

Yes, HMC641ALC4TR RF ports (RFC, RF1–RF4) are DC-coupled and internally matched to 50 Ω. External DC blocking capacitors are mandatory if any connected RF line carries non-zero DC potential. Typical values are 100 pF (for >1 GHz) or 1000 pF (for DC–1 GHz), placed as close as possible to the HMC641ALC4TR pads to preserve high-frequency match.

What is the maximum RF input power the HMC641ALC4TR can handle continuously?

The HMC641ALC4TR supports +23 dBm maximum input power on terminated paths and +26.5 dBm on the insertion-loss path, per absolute ratings. For continuous wave operation at +20 dBm (100 mW), derating is required above +70 °C ambient due to thermal resistance of 201 °C/W on the insertion path-ensure adequate heatsinking or airflow to maintain junction temperature below 150 °C.

Can HMC641ALC4TR operate with +5 V logic control signals?

No, HMC641ALC4TR requires −5 Vdc supply (Vss) and accepts only 0 V (low) or −5 V (high) TTL-compatible control voltages on CTLA/CTLB. Applying +5 V will exceed the absolute maximum control voltage range (Vss −0.5 V to +1 V = −5.5 V to +1 V) and may damage the device. Level-shifting circuitry is required for +3.3 V or +5 V logic domains.

Is HMC641ALC4TR compliant with RoHS and REACH regulations?

Yes, HMC641ALC4TR is RoHS-compliant (Pb-free, halogen-free) and REACH-conformant, as confirmed by Analog Devices' material declarations. The ceramic package uses gold-over-nickel plating and alumina substrate, with no restricted substances above threshold limits. Full compliance documentation is available upon request from Aetrix Electronics or Analog Devices' quality portal.