Analog Devices Inc. HMC767LP6CE

Overview

HMC767LP6CE from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a fully integrated Fractional-N PLL frequency synthesizer with on-die VCO, operating from 8.45 GHz to 9.55 GHz. It delivers +12 dBm RF output power, supports 3 Hz typical frequency resolution in fractional mode, features ultra-low phase noise (−107 dBc/Hz @ 10 kHz offset, integer mode), and enables triggered frequency hopping and phase modulation for FMCW radar and phased array systems.

For engineers reviewing the HMC767LP6CE datasheet, HMC767LP6CE pinout, HMC767LP6CE application, or HMC767LP6CE equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, validated pin functions, confirmed RF/phase performance metrics, and real-world use cases in microwave radios and test equipment - all grounded in the official Hittite/Analog Devices documentation.

Technical Context

The HMC767LP6CE implements a delta-sigma modulator-based fractional-N synthesizer architecture with integrated VCO, supporting both integer and fractional division modes. Its reference input accepts DC–350 MHz signals, and its charge pump delivers programmable current (20 µA steps) with gain up to 6 mA/rad under high-impedance conditions.

It integrates digital control logic for double-buffered register writes, external trigger inputs (TRIG pin), and an on-chip frequency sweeper. The VCO tuning sensitivity is 150 MHz/V at VTUNE = 6 V, with frequency drift of 0.8 MHz/°C and pulling of ≤6 MHz peak-to-peak into 2:1 VSWR load mismatch.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The HMC767LP6CE is housed in a 40-lead, 6 mm × 6 mm leadless QFN package with exposed ground paddle. All ground pins (GND, pins 2–5, 37, 39) and the paddle must be soldered to PCB RF ground per Hittite Application Note land pattern guidance.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar fractional-N PLL with integrated VCO applications.

Compared with HMC830LP6CE and ADF4372BCPZ, the HMC767LP6CE uniquely balances Ku-band coverage (8.45–9.55 GHz), on-chip frequency sweeping, and trigger-ready architecture - making it optimal for FMCW radar and phased arrays where deterministic timing and spectral purity are non-negotiable.

Availability

HMC767LP6CE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for VSAT radio development, microwave point-to-point radio production, and FMCW radar prototyping requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle assurance.

Supply support for HMC767LP6CE 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-frequency RF product lines, including microwave PLLs and VCOs, with focus on defense, aerospace, and communications infrastructure.

The HMC767LP6CE belongs to Hittite's "PLLs with Integrated VCO" product family, designed specifically for microwave radio, radar, and test instrumentation requiring single-chip, low-phase-noise frequency synthesis without external tuning components.

FAQ

What is the maximum reference input frequency supported by the HMC767LP6CE?

The HMC767LP6CE supports reference input frequencies from DC up to 350 MHz at 3.3 V logic level. This allows direct interfacing with high-speed crystal oscillators, divider outputs, or clock synthesizers without external prescaling. The device's 14-bit reference divider (range 1–16,383) enables flexible ratio selection while maintaining low phase noise contribution from the reference path. Operation above 350 MHz is not specified and may compromise lock stability or increase spurs.

Does the HMC767LP6CE require external loop filtering?

Yes, the HMC767LP6CE requires an external passive loop filter between the CP (Pin 18) output and VTUNE (Pin 6) input. The charge pump delivers current, not voltage, so the filter converts this to a stable tuning voltage for the VCO. Filter design determines loop bandwidth, phase margin, and transient response - typical values use RC networks with optional op-amp buffering for higher-order compensation. Hittite's PLL Design Software provides validated filter templates for common configurations.

Can the HMC767LP6CE generate frequency sweeps without host processor involvement?

Yes, the HMC767LP6CE includes an integrated frequency sweeper that operates autonomously once configured via its serial interface. It supports linear and stepped sweep modes with programmable start/stop frequencies, step size, dwell time, and direction - all executed in hardware. This eliminates CPU overhead and jitter in FMCW radar or automated test equipment, enabling deterministic, repeatable chirps independent of system clock latency or software scheduling delays.

What is the recommended power supply sequencing for the HMC767LP6CE?

The HMC767LP6CE requires strict power supply sequencing: analog supplies (RVDD, AVDD, VCCHF, VDDPD) and digital supplies (DVDD, VDDIO) must be applied before VCCVCO1/VCCVCO2 and VPPCPA. Violating this order risks latch-up or degraded phase noise. Typical sequence is: 3.3 V analog/digital rails → 5 V charge pump (VPPCPA) → 5 V VCO supplies (VCCVCO1/VCCVCO2). Decoupling is critical - each supply requires ≥100 nF ceramic + 10 µF tantalum close to the package, with separate ferrite beads for analog/digital domains.

Is the HMC767LP6CE pin-compatible with other Hittite PLL+VCO devices?

No, the HMC767LP6CE is not pin-compatible with other Hittite PLL+VCO devices such as the HMC830LP6CE or HMC703LP4E. While all use 6×6 mm QFN packages, pin assignments differ significantly - e.g., VTUNE is on Pin 6 in HMC767LP6CE but Pin 10 in HMC830LP6CE, and RFOUT moves from Pin 38 to Pin 36. Layout reuse is not possible; each device requires its own footprint and routing per the respective datasheet land pattern.