Analog Devices Inc. HMC773LC3B

Overview

HMC773LC3B from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a GaAs MMIC double-balanced passive mixer operating from 6 to 26 GHz RF/LO and DC–8 GHz IF, delivering +22 dBm input IP3, 38 dB LO/RF isolation, and 9–11 dB conversion loss - ideal for microwave up/downconversion in point-to-point radios and test equipment.

For engineers reviewing the HMC773LC3B datasheet, HMC773LC3B pinout, HMC773LC3B application, or HMC773LC3B equivalent, key selection criteria include its 12-lead 3×3 mm ceramic SMT package, no-DC-bias operation, wide IF bandwidth, and verified performance at +13 dBm LO drive across full RF band.

Technical Context

The HMC773LC3B employs optimized on-chip balun structures to achieve high LO-to-RF and LO-to-IF suppression without external matching components. It functions as both upconverter and downconverter with no DC bias required and supports operation from –40°C to +85°C ambient.

Its passive architecture eliminates active devices, enabling broadband RF/LO coverage (6–26 GHz) and wide IF response (DC–8 GHz), while maintaining consistent conversion loss and isolation across temperature and LO drive levels (+13 dBm typical).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

12-lead leadless ceramic package (3×3 mm body, alumina substrate, gold-over-nickel plating); ground paddle must be soldered to PCB RF ground per datasheet layout guidelines.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with HMC773LC3B, HMC1048LP3E trades Ka-band reach for improved low-band linearity and drive flexibility, while QPC1006 extends upper frequency limit at cost of linearity and introduces mechanical redesign due to non-identical pin mapping and thermal pad configuration.

Availability

HMC773LC3B is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for point-to-point radios, test equipment, and military communications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing for production programs.

Supply support for HMC773LC3B 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 HMC773LC3B belongs to Hittite's GaAs MMIC fundamental mixer product line, designed specifically for broadband microwave systems requiring high isolation, wide IF bandwidth, and surface-mount manufacturability without external bias or matching.

FAQ

What is the recommended LO drive level for optimal performance of the HMC773LC3B?

The HMC773LC3B achieves best conversion loss, IP3, and isolation at +13 dBm LO drive, as specified in the datasheet. Performance remains stable from +11 dBm to +15 dBm, but below +11 dBm increases conversion loss and degrades linearity. Exceeding +21 dBm absolute maximum risks permanent damage. The HMC773LC3B does not require DC bias, simplifying LO driver design.

Can the HMC773LC3B be used for zero-IF (direct-conversion) receiver applications?

Yes - the HMC773LC3B supports DC-coupled IF operation up to 8 GHz, making it suitable for zero-IF architectures. Its IF port (Pin 5) must not source or sink more than ±2 mA to avoid malfunction. For true DC operation, ensure baseband circuitry complies with this current limit; otherwise, use external series capacitors for AC coupling above ~100 kHz.

Does the HMC773LC3B require external matching components or filters?

No - the HMC773LC3B is fully matched to 50 Ω on RF and LO ports and requires no external matching networks, baluns, or bias tees. Its integrated balun structure provides inherent balance and isolation. However, external DC blocking on IF may be needed depending on system DC requirements, and grounding of N/C pins is recommended per layout guidelines.

What is the thermal management requirement for continuous operation of the HMC773LC3B?

The HMC773LC3B has a junction-to-ground-paddle thermal resistance of 170 °C/W. At maximum dissipation (210 mW at +85°C ambient), proper soldering of the exposed ground paddle to a thermally robust PCB ground plane with multiple vias is mandatory. Derating begins above +85°C ambient at 3.3 mW/°C; operation beyond +85°C requires heatsinking or airflow per application-specific thermal modeling.

Is the HMC773LC3B pin-compatible with other Hittite mixer variants like HMC773LC3TR?

Yes - HMC773LC3B and HMC773LC3TR share identical 12-lead 3×3 mm ceramic package, pinout, and electrical specifications. The "B" suffix denotes tape-and-reel packaging; "TR" is an alternate reel designation. Both are functionally and mechanically interchangeable with no PCB changes required, supporting drop-in replacement in production and prototyping.