Analog Devices Inc. HMC657LP2ETR
- Part No.:
- HMC657LP2ETR
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc.
- Category:
- Attenuators
- Package:
- 6-TDFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
HMC657LP2ETR.pdf
- Description:
- RF ATTENUATOR 15DB 50OHM 6TDFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:1,561
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Product details
Overview
HMC657LP2ETR from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a 15 dB wideband fixed attenuator for RF/microwave signal conditioning in 50 Ω systems, operating from DC to 25 GHz with ±2.0 dB attenuation tolerance over temperature, 7 dB min return loss, and +25 dBm CW power handling - deployed in fiber optic transceivers and microwave radio front-ends.
For engineers reviewing the HMC657LP2ETR datasheet, HMC657LP2ETR pinout, HMC657LP2ETR application, or HMC657LP2ETR equivalent, key selection criteria include broadband flatness (DC–25 GHz), RoHS-compliant 2×2 mm SMT package with ground paddle, thermal coefficient of 0.0006 dB/°C, and compatibility with high-volume reflow (MSL1, 260 °C peak).
Technical Context
This passive 50 Ω matched attenuator uses low-stress injection-molded plastic packaging with 100% matte tin lead finish and requires full grounding of all six terminals (pins 1,3,4,6 = GND; pins 2,5 = RF I/O). Its DC-coupled architecture mandates external DC blocking capacitors when interfacing with biased signal paths.
Designed for minimal VSWR variation across frequency, it achieves typ. 14 dB return loss at 25 °C and maintains stable attenuation performance from –40 °C to +85 °C, with absolute max ratings including 4.4 V DC voltage (terminated) and Class 1B ESD sensitivity.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Attenuation | 15 dB ±2.0 dB over full DC–25 GHz range and –40°C to +85°C |
| Frequency Range | DC to 25 GHz - supports baseband through Ka-band without roll-off |
| Return Loss | ≥7 dB min (typ. 14 dB) - ensures <1.5 VSWR up to 25 GHz |
| Power Handling | +25 dBm CW - supports high-level test signal routing without compression |
| Temp. Coefficient | 0.0006 dB/°C - enables stable gain calibration in environmental chambers |
| Package Size | 2 mm × 2 mm × 0.85 mm - fits dense RF PCB layouts with 0.5 mm pitch |
| MSL Rating | MSL1 - compatible with standard lead-free reflow profiles (260 °C peak) |
Pinout & Package
6-lead 2×2 mm SMT package with exposed ground paddle; RoHS-compliant matte Sn finish; low-stress molded plastic body; requires soldering all ground leads and paddle directly to PCB RF ground plane per Hittite AN-119194 land pattern guidance.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1, 3, 4, 6 | GND | Must be soldered to RF/DC ground plane - critical for return loss and thermal dissipation |
| 2 | RF Input | DC-coupled 50 Ω input; requires external DC blocking if source has DC offset |
| 5 | RF Output | DC-coupled 50 Ω output; requires external DC blocking if load has DC bias |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Ultra-wide bandwidth | DC–25 GHz operation enables single-component use from baseband to Ka-band |
| High power rating | +25 dBm CW handling supports lab-grade signal generator and spectrum analyzer interfaces |
| Thermal stability | 0.0006 dB/°C coefficient ensures <0.1 dB drift over full industrial temperature range |
| Ground paddle integration | Exposed bottom paddle improves RF grounding and thermal conduction vs. standard QFN |
Applications
| Fiber Optic Transceivers | Microwave Radio Front-Ends |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Attenuating laser driver output to prevent photodiode saturation in 10G/25G SFP+ modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Passive 50 Ω matched signal level setter between driver IC and optical modulator. Use Value: Maintains flat 15 dB loss from DC to 25 GHz, preserving eye diagram integrity and minimizing intersymbol interference. | Use Scenario: Calibrating transmit/receive path gain in point-to-point 24–28 GHz E-band radios. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Reference-standard fixed attenuation stage in RF loopback and channel emulation circuits. Use Value: Enables repeatable +25 dBm power handling and <1.5 VSWR across full band - critical for adjacent-channel leakage ratio (ACLR) compliance. |
| Test & Measurement Equipment | Scientific Instrumentation |
Use Scenario: Inserting known loss between vector network analyzer (VNA) ports during calibration kit verification. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Precision broadband reference attenuator in metrology-grade RF test fixtures. Use Value: ±2.0 dB tolerance and 14 dB typ. return loss ensure measurement uncertainty <0.05 dB up to 25 GHz. | Use Scenario: Signal conditioning in pulsed radar receiver chains for particle accelerator diagnostics. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Wideband amplitude control element before low-noise amplifier (LNA) input. Use Value: Stable DC–25 GHz response prevents pulse distortion; ground paddle minimizes thermal drift during long-duration acquisitions. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar fixed attenuator applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| QAT-15W+ | 15 dB ±0.75 dB tolerance, DC–20 GHz, +2 W (33 dBm) power handling, larger 3.2×3.2 mm package | Better power margin but narrower bandwidth; suited for high-power lab equipment over 20 GHz | Select QAT-15W+ only when >+25 dBm handling is required and 20–25 GHz coverage is acceptable |
| HMC657LP3E | Same 15 dB value, identical specs, but 3 mm × 3 mm package with different land pattern and MSL3 rating | Not drop-in compatible due to larger footprint and reflow profile mismatch | Choose HMC657LP3E only for legacy designs using 3×3 mm layout or where MSL3 process is mandated |
Compared with QAT-15W+ and HMC657LP3E, the HMC657LP2ETR delivers optimal balance of ultra-wideband flatness (DC–25 GHz), compact 2×2 mm footprint, and industrial temperature stability - making it preferred for space-constrained, multi-GHz communication and instrumentation systems requiring MSL1 manufacturability.
Availability
HMC657LP2ETR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for fiber optics, microwave radio, and test & measurement applications requiring stable component supply, consistent RF performance, and RoHS-compliant SMT assembly.
Supply support for HMC657LP2ETR 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 HMC657LP2ETR belongs to the Hittite wideband fixed attenuator family designed specifically for DC–25 GHz signal conditioning in mission-critical RF systems where flatness, repeatability, and thermal stability are non-negotiable.
FAQ
What is the exact attenuation value and tolerance of the HMC657LP2ETR?
The HMC657LP2ETR provides a nominal 15 dB attenuation with a tolerance of ±2.0 dB over its full operating temperature range (–40°C to +85°C) and DC–25 GHz frequency band. This tolerance is guaranteed per datasheet specification v02.0112 and applies under standard 50 Ω system conditions at +25°C ambient.
Does the HMC657LP2ETR require DC blocking capacitors in circuit?
Yes, the HMC657LP2ETR is DC-coupled on both RF ports (pins 2 and 5), so external DC blocking capacitors must be used if either the driving or load circuit imposes a non-zero DC bias. Failure to do so may cause impedance mismatch or damage due to unintended DC current flow through the attenuator core.
What is the recommended PCB land pattern for the HMC657LP2ETR?
The official land pattern for the HMC657LP2ETR is documented in Hittite Application Note AN-119194, which specifies solder pad geometry, stencil design, and grounding requirements for the 2×2 mm package with exposed ground paddle. All six terminals - including the bottom paddle - must connect to a solid RF ground plane to achieve specified return loss and thermal performance.
Is the HMC657LP2ETR pin-compatible with other parts in the HMC656LP2E–HMC658LP2E family?
Yes, the HMC657LP2ETR shares identical pinout, package dimensions, and land pattern with HMC656LP2ETR and HMC658LP2ETR - enabling direct substitution in PCB layouts when only attenuation value differs. All three use the same 6-lead 2×2 mm RoHS-compliant package with pins 1,3,4,6 as GND and pins 2,5 as RF I/O.
What is the maximum continuous RF input power rating for the HMC657LP2ETR?
The HMC657LP2ETR is rated for +25 dBm (316 mW) continuous wave (CW) RF input power at +25°C ambient. Derating is required above +25°C per the thermal coefficient and absolute maximum ratings table; operation beyond this limit risks permanent degradation of attenuation accuracy and return loss performance.
HMC657LP2ETR Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc.
- Package/Case:
- 6-TDFN Exposed Pad
- Series:
- -
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Attenuation Value:
- 15dB
- Frequency Range:
- 0 Hz ~ 25 GHz
- Power (Watts):
- -
- Impedance:
- 50 Ohms
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
HMC657LP2ETR FAQ
1.How can I place an order for HMC657LP2ETR through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for HMC657LP2ETR on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for HMC657LP2ETR reliable?
The price and inventory of HMC657LP2ETR are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for HMC657LP2ETR is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for HMC657LP2ETR?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for HMC657LP2ETR transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for HMC657LP2ETR?
HMC657LP2ETR orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your HMC657LP2ETR order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for HMC657LP2ETR?
For technical support, including HMC657LP2ETR datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your HMC657LP2ETR requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that HMC657LP2ETR is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All HMC657LP2ETR products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that HMC657LP2ETR meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of HMC657LP2ETR?
All HMC657LP2ETR units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with HMC657LP2ETR, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The HMC657LP2ETR part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for HMC657LP2ETR:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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