Analog Devices Inc. HMC773A-SX

Overview

HMC773A-SX from Analog Devices is a GaAs MMIC double-balanced fundamental mixer operating from 6 GHz to 26 GHz as both upconverter and downconverter, with 10 dB typical conversion loss, 21 dBm input IP3, and dc–10 GHz IF bandwidth. It requires no DC bias or external matching components and is used in millimeter-wave point-to-point radios and military test equipment.

For engineers reviewing the HMC773A-SX datasheet, HMC773A-SX pinout, HMC773A-SX application, or HMC773A-SX equivalent, key selection criteria include RF/LO frequency coverage (6–26 GHz), passive operation (no bias required), LO drive sensitivity (≥13 dBm), isolation performance (LO–RF ≥39 dB), and surface-mount die-level packaging for high-frequency PCB integration.

Technical Context

The HMC773A-SX implements a double-balanced topology using optimized on-die balun structures to achieve high LO-to-RF (39 dB typ) and LO-to-IF (33 dB typ) suppression. Its passive design eliminates DC biasing requirements and enables operation across two RF bands: 6–16 GHz and 16–26 GHz, with corresponding LO ranges.

It supports both upper and lower sideband downconversion and upconversion, with IF bandwidth spanning dc to 10 GHz. Performance is specified at TA = 25°C with 13 dBm LO drive, and thermal operation is validated from −55°C to +85°C with channel temperature limits up to 175°C.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The HMC773A-SX is supplied as a bare die in C-6-12 package (θJC = 225°C/W), intended for eutectic or conductive epoxy mounting directly to RF ground planes, with 50 Ω microstrip routing on 0.127 mm alumina substrates.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with HMC773ALC3B, the HMC773A-SX offers superior RF path integrity and thermal resistance (θJC = 225°C/W vs. ~350°C/W) but demands precision wire bonding. Against HMC1048LP3E, it delivers extended upper-band coverage and 3 dB higher linearity-critical for Ka-band military and satellite systems.

Availability

HMC773A-SX is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for point-to-point radios, military radar receivers, and test & measurement equipment requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and high-frequency reliability.

Supply support for HMC773A-SX 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 is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and RF ICs, serving communications, defense, instrumentation, and industrial markets with precision signal processing solutions.

The HMC773A-SX belongs to Analog Devices' Hittite Microwave MMIC product line, engineered specifically for millimeter-wave wireless infrastructure, electronic warfare, and aerospace applications demanding broadband, high-linearity passive mixing.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for the HMC773A-SX?

The HMC773A-SX is rated for operation from −55°C to +85°C ambient temperature, with channel temperature limited to 175°C. Its performance specifications-including conversion loss, IP3, and isolation-are guaranteed across this full range when mounted per recommended eutectic or conductive epoxy techniques on thermally optimized substrates. The HMC773A-SX maintains stable RF behavior under thermal cycling typical of airborne and outdoor base station deployments.

Does the HMC773A-SX require DC bias or external matching components?

No, the HMC773A-SX is a fully passive double-balanced mixer and requires no DC bias voltage or current. Its LO and RF ports are internally 50 Ω dc-coupled, eliminating the need for external DC blocking capacitors or impedance-matching networks. This simplifies system design and preserves signal integrity at mmWave frequencies where parasitic effects dominate. The HMC773A-SX functions immediately upon proper RF/LO/IF interconnection.

What LO drive level is required for optimal performance of the HMC773A-SX?

The HMC773A-SX is characterized and optimized for LO drive levels of 13 dBm or greater. At 13 dBm, it achieves its specified conversion loss (10 dB typ), IP3 (21 dBm typ), and isolation (LO–RF ≥39 dB). Lower LO drive degrades conversion efficiency and increases noise figure; exceeding 21 dBm risks permanent damage per absolute maximum ratings. The HMC773A-SX's robust LO drive tolerance supports integration with commercial LO synthesizers without amplification stages.

Can the HMC773A-SX be used for both upconversion and downconversion?

Yes, the HMC773A-SX is a bidirectional fundamental mixer capable of both upconversion (IF → RF) and downconversion (RF → IF) across its full 6–26 GHz RF/LO range. Application notes and performance curves in the datasheet validate operation in both modes with upper and lower sidebands. Its symmetric double-balanced architecture ensures consistent linearity and isolation regardless of signal flow direction-making the HMC773A-SX ideal for TDD transceivers and reconfigurable test instruments.

What is the recommended mounting method for the HMC773A-SX die?

The HMC773A-SX die must be mounted eutectically or with conductive epoxy directly onto a low-impedance RF ground plane. Signal routing requires 50 Ω microstrip lines on 0.127 mm thick alumina thin-film substrates, with gold ribbon wire bonding to LO, RF, and IF pads. Die thickness (0.102 mm) and thermal resistance (θJC = 225°C/W) demand precise thermal interface control-any deviation from the mounting guidelines in Analog Devices' AN-1327 will degrade isolation and power handling. The HMC773A-SX is not compatible with standard SMT reflow processes.