Analog Devices Inc. HMC696LP4ETR

Overview

HMC696LP4ETR from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a SiGe wideband direct quadrature modulator IC designed for RF upconversion in digital modulation systems. It operates from 20 MHz to 2700 MHz, delivers +8 dBm typical P1dB output power, achieves +24 dBm typical OIP3 across multiple bands, and features –163 dBm/Hz minimum noise floor at 100–450 MHz - enabling high-fidelity signal synthesis in software-defined radio transmitters.

For engineers reviewing the HMC696LP4ETR datasheet, HMC696LP4ETR pinout, HMC696LP4ETR application, or HMC696LP4ETR equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, frequency-band-specific performance data, calibrated suppression metrics, supply voltage sensitivity, and real-world evaluation board interface guidance - all critical for SDR, multi-band cellular, and WiMAX transmitter design.

Technical Context

The HMC696LP4ETR integrates I/Q baseband input paths with differential LO drive capability (0 to +10 dBm), single-ended 50 Ω RF output, and dual 5 V supplies (Vcc1 for mixer/output stage, Vcc2 for LO stage). Its SiGe process enables broadband linearity while maintaining low noise floor across 20–2700 MHz.

Carrier feedthrough and sideband suppression are specified both uncalibrated (–42 dBc typical carrier, –54 dBc typical sideband at 100–450 MHz) and calibrated (–55 dBc+ achievable post-adjustment), with performance validated over temperature (–40 °C to +85 °C) and supply voltage (4.5–5.5 V).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 24-lead 4×4 mm QFN (LP4), RoHS-compliant, MSL1, exposed ground paddle. Thermal resistance 34 °C/W (junction-to-paddle).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar direct quadrature modulator applications.

Compared with HMC696LP4ETR, ADL5375-05 trades broadband low-end coverage for extended high-frequency reach and higher LO headroom, while HMC697LP4E offers a seamless frequency upgrade path above 450 MHz with identical footprint and biasing - making HMC696LP4ETR uniquely optimal for 20–450 MHz SDR, ISM, and legacy cellular applications.

Availability

HMC696LP4ETR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for cellular infrastructure, WiMAX subscriber units, software-defined radio platforms, and test equipment requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and frequency ranges.

Supply support for HMC696LP4ETR 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 maintains its high-performance RF portfolio, including wideband modulators, synthesizers, and microwave ICs for defense, communications, and instrumentation.

The HMC696LP4ETR belongs to Hittite's LP4-series direct quadrature modulator family, engineered specifically for compact, low-cost, wideband transmitter architectures in software-defined and multi-standard wireless systems.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for the HMC696LP4ETR?

The HMC696LP4ETR is rated for continuous operation from –40 °C to +85 °C ambient temperature. Performance specifications including carrier feedthrough, sideband suppression, and output power are guaranteed across this full range, with worst-case uncalibrated suppression data provided for –40 °C, +25 °C, and +85 °C in the datasheet. The device's thermal resistance (34 °C/W) supports reliable operation at full power within this envelope when mounted on a properly designed PCB with adequate ground paddle thermal vias.

Does the HMC696LP4ETR require external matching components on the RF output?

No, the HMC696LP4ETR RF output port (Pin 16) is internally matched to 50 Ω and requires no external matching network. However, an AC-blocking capacitor must be placed in series with the RF output path to isolate DC voltage from downstream components such as filters or power amplifiers. The datasheet confirms that RF return loss exceeds 20 dB across 20–2700 MHz without any external components, validating the monolithic match integrity.

Can the HMC696LP4ETR be driven with a single-ended LO signal?

Yes, the HMC696LP4ETR supports single-ended LO drive through the LOP pin (Pin 3) only, with LON (Pin 4) left unterminated or AC-grounded. The datasheet explicitly states "LO can be driven in either differential or single-ended mode," and characterization data includes performance plots for 0 dBm single-ended LO input. Return loss remains >9 dB across 20–2700 MHz under this configuration, ensuring efficient LO power transfer without additional balun circuitry.

What baseband input voltage levels are required for optimal performance of the HMC696LP4ETR?

The HMC696LP4ETR requires a +1.5 V DC bias on all differential baseband inputs (IP/IN and QP/QN), with nominal AC swing of ±350 mV (700 mVpp differential) for standard operation. For OIP3 measurement, the datasheet specifies 700 mVpp per tone at 150 kHz and 250 kHz. Deviations beyond +1.5 V ±0.2 V reduce linearity and increase distortion; the absolute maximum baseband input (AC + DC) is +2.8 V referenced to ground.

Is the HMC696LP4ETR pin-compatible with the HMC697LP4E?

Yes, the HMC696LP4ETR and HMC697LP4E share identical 24-lead 4×4 mm QFN (LP4) packaging, pin numbering, pin functions, supply requirements, and baseband interface. The HMC697LP4E is explicitly described as a higher-frequency variant covering 450–4000 MHz, with identical footprint and biasing - enabling drop-in replacement in designs where RF band coverage starts at 450 MHz or higher. However, HMC696LP4ETR performance below 450 MHz is not guaranteed for HMC697LP4E.