Analog Devices Inc. HMC787LC3BTR-R5

Overview

HMC787LC3BTR-R5 from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a GaAs MMIC passive double-balanced mixer designed for RF/LO frequency translation between 3–10 GHz and IF bandwidth DC–4 GHz. It operates as an upconverter or downconverter with 9 dB typical conversion loss, 55 dB LO-to-RF isolation, and requires no external matching components. It is used in microwave radio transceivers requiring high linearity and broadband IF response.

For engineers reviewing the HMC787LC3BTR-R5 datasheet, HMC787LC3BTR-R5 pinout, HMC787LC3BTR-R5 application, or HMC787LC3BTR-R5 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 3–10 GHz RF/LO range, +17 dBm LO drive requirement, 23 dBm input IP3, 12-lead 3×3 mm ceramic SMT package, and suitability for WiMAX infrastructure and military-grade test equipment where passive topology and high isolation are critical.

Technical Context

The HMC787LC3BTR-R5 implements a passive double-balanced topology using GaAs MESFET technology, eliminating active devices and bias networks. Its internal balun structures deliver 55 dB LO-to-RF and 35–42 dB LO-to-IF isolation across the full 3–10 GHz band, enabling clean signal mixing without LO leakage degradation.

It supports DC-coupled LO and RF ports matched to 50 Ω, and a DC-coupled IF port capable of operation to DC (with ≤8 mA current sourcing/sinking limit). The device achieves 9 dB typical conversion loss at +17 dBm LO drive and maintains 23 dBm input IP3 over temperature, making it suitable for high-dynamic-range receiver front-ends and broadband transmitter IF stages.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 12-lead, 3×3 mm ceramic surface-mount package with exposed ground paddle; alumina body, gold-over-nickel plating; MSL3 rating (peak reflow 260 °C).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with HMC1048LP3E and QPC1006, the HMC787LC3BTR-R5 offers the lowest conversion loss and highest LO-to-RF isolation specifically optimized for 3–10 GHz infrastructure radios, while maintaining strict DC–4 GHz IF bandwidth and compact 3×3 mm footprint-making it the preferred choice for WiMAX, microwave radio, and test instrumentation where bandwidth fidelity and layout density are prioritized.

Availability

HMC787LC3BTR-R5 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for WiMAX infrastructure, microwave point-to-point radio, and military test equipment requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence mitigation support.

Supply support for HMC787LC3BTR-R5 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 HMC787LC3BTR-R5 belongs to Hittite's legacy GaAs MMIC mixer product line, engineered for broadband microwave systems demanding high isolation, wide IF bandwidth, and passive reliability in harsh RF environments.

FAQ

What is the recommended LO drive level for optimal performance of the HMC787LC3BTR-R5?

The HMC787LC3BTR-R5 is characterized and optimized for +17 dBm LO drive. At this level, it achieves 9 dB typical conversion loss and 23 dBm input IP3. Deviating below +15 dBm increases conversion loss; exceeding +19 dBm yields diminishing linearity returns and risks thermal stress. All datasheet specifications assume +17 dBm LO drive unless otherwise noted.

Can the HMC787LC3BTR-R5 be used for zero-IF (direct-conversion) receiver applications?

Yes, the HMC787LC3BTR-R5 supports zero-IF operation because its IF port is DC-coupled and specified for DC–4 GHz bandwidth. However, the IF output must not source or sink more than ±8 mA to avoid damage. For true baseband use, ensure external DC blocking or biasing complies with this current limit and maintains 50 Ω termination.

Does the HMC787LC3BTR-R5 require external matching components at RF, LO, or IF ports?

No. The HMC787LC3BTR-R5 features fully integrated 50 Ω matching on RF, LO, and IF ports across its entire 3–10 GHz RF/LO and DC–4 GHz IF operating ranges. No external baluns, transformers, or discrete matching networks are needed-reducing bill-of-materials cost and PCB area while improving repeatability.

What is the thermal resistance and maximum channel temperature specification for the HMC787LC3BTR-R5?

The HMC787LC3BTR-R5 has a channel-to-ground-paddle thermal resistance of 87.7 °C/W. Its absolute maximum channel temperature is 150 °C, with continuous power dissipation limited to 0.74 W at 85 °C ambient-derating linearly above that temperature. Proper PCB thermal via design beneath the exposed paddle is essential to maintain reliability.

Is the HMC787LC3BTR-R5 pin-compatible with other Hittite mixer variants such as the HMC787LC3?

Yes, the HMC787LC3BTR-R5 shares identical pinout, package dimensions, and terminal functions with the non-tray version HMC787LC3. Both use the same 12-lead 3×3 mm ceramic SMT package with ground paddle, and all functional pins (LO, RF, IF, GND, N/C) map identically-enabling drop-in replacement in existing layouts without redesign.