Analog Devices Inc. HMC773-SX

Overview

HMC773-SX 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 no-DC-bias operation in a 12-lead 3×3 mm ceramic SMT package - ideal for microwave up/downconversion in point-to-point radios and test equipment.

For engineers reviewing the HMC773-SX datasheet, HMC773-SX pinout, HMC773-SX application, or HMC773-SX equivalent, key selection criteria include its wideband RF/LO coverage, high linearity at +13 dBm LO drive, DC-coupled IF port capability, and RoHS-compliant leadless ceramic packaging suitable for surface-mount manufacturing without wire bonding.

Technical Context

The HMC773-SX employs optimized on-chip balun structures to achieve >37 dB LO-to-RF and >31 dB LO-to-IF isolation across its full 6–26 GHz range, enabling robust suppression of local oscillator leakage in sensitive receiver and transmitter chains. Its passive architecture eliminates DC bias requirements and external matching components.

It operates as both upconverter and downconverter with typical conversion loss of 9–11 dB, supports IF bandwidth from DC to 8 GHz, and maintains stable IP3 (>22 dBm typ.) and P1dB (>11 dBm typ.) over –40°C to +85°C ambient temperature.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 12-lead leadless ceramic SMT package (3×3 mm body, alumina substrate, gold-over-nickel plating, MSL3), with exposed ground paddle requiring solder connection to PCB RF ground plane.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with HMC773-SX, HMC1048LP3E extends IF bandwidth at the cost of higher LO drive and larger size, while QPC1006 trades RF range and linearity for higher power tolerance - making HMC773-SX the optimal balance of bandwidth, linearity, and compactness for Ka-band infrastructure.

Availability

HMC773-SX is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for point-to-point radios, test equipment, and military communications requiring stable component supply, consistent RF performance across temperature, and long-term obsolescence management.

Supply support for HMC773-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 acquired Hittite Microwave in 2014 and integrates its high-frequency RF portfolio into precision microwave solutions for defense, communications, and instrumentation markets.

The HMC773-SX belongs to Hittite's legacy GaAs MMIC mixer family, engineered specifically for broadband, high-linearity, surface-mount microwave conversion in infrastructure and test systems - not general-purpose or low-frequency use.

FAQ

What is the RF/LO frequency range supported by the HMC773-SX?

The HMC773-SX supports RF and LO frequencies from 6 to 26 GHz, covering C-band through Ka-band. This range is validated across all operating temperatures and LO drive levels ≥+13 dBm. The HMC773-SX maintains specified conversion loss, isolation, and linearity throughout this span, making it suitable for wideband microwave transceivers without band-specific tuning.

Does the HMC773-SX require DC bias or external matching components?

No, the HMC773-SX is a passive GaAs MMIC mixer and requires no DC bias. Its RF, LO, and IF ports are internally matched to 50 Ω (RF and LO AC-coupled; IF DC-coupled), eliminating the need for external baluns, bias tees, or impedance-matching networks. This simplifies layout and improves repeatability in high-volume SMT assembly of the HMC773-SX.

Can the HMC773-SX be used for both upconversion and downconversion?

Yes, the HMC773-SX is bidirectional and functions as both an upconverter and downconverter. Its symmetrical RF/LO architecture and balanced topology allow flexible signal routing - RF port serves as input in downconversion and output in upconversion, while IF remains the baseband or intermediate frequency port in both modes. This dual functionality is confirmed in the HMC773-SX datasheet and evaluation board documentation.

What is the maximum allowable current on the IF port of the HMC773-SX?

The IF port of the HMC773-SX must not source or sink more than ±2 mA when operated in DC-coupled mode. Exceeding this limit risks non-function or permanent damage. For AC-coupled IF applications, a series capacitor should be selected to pass the required IF band (DC–8 GHz); the HMC773-SX datasheet specifies this constraint explicitly for safe operation of the HMC773-SX.

Is the HMC773-SX pin-compatible with other Hittite mixer packages like the HMC773LC3B?

Yes, the HMC773-SX shares identical pinout, package dimensions (3×3 mm), and terminal functions with the HMC773LC3B - including GND pins (1,3,7,9,10,12), LO (pin 2), IF (pin 5), RF (pin 8), and N/C (pins 4,6,11). Both are drop-in replacements per Hittite's documentation, and the HMC773-SX is functionally and mechanically equivalent to the HMC773LC3B.