Analog Devices Inc. HMC807LP6CETR

Overview

HMC807LP6CETR from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a fully integrated Fractional-N PLL with on-chip VCO, operating in the 12.4–13.4 GHz RF band. It delivers 8 dBm typical output power, supports 24-bit frequency resolution (3 Hz step), and achieves −95 dBc/Hz in-band phase noise at 10 kHz offset (fractional mode, 50 MHz reference). It is used as a local oscillator synthesizer in microwave radio transceivers.

For engineers reviewing the HMC807LP6CETR datasheet, HMC807LP6CETR pinout, HMC807LP6CETR application, or HMC807LP6CETR equivalent, key selection criteria include its ultra-low phase noise performance, cycle slip prevention capability, direct FSK modulation support, and compatibility with 3.3 V / 5 V dual-supply systems for high-linearity mixer LO drive.

Technical Context

The HMC807LP6CETR implements a delta-sigma fractional-N architecture with a 16-bit integer N-divider (32–65567) and 16-bit fractional divider (36–65535), enabling fine frequency resolution and low spurious content. Its integrated VCO operates without external tuning components and exhibits 190 MHz/V tuning sensitivity at +5 V VTUNE.

It features separate analog (3.3 V) and charge pump/analog VCO (5 V) supply domains, read/write serial interface with chip ID, lock detect output, and cycle slip prevention logic that ensures stable frequency hopping-critical for phased array beam steering and VSAT burst-mode operation.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 40-lead, 6 × 6 mm leadless QFN (RoHS-compliant, MSL3, exposed paddle grounded). Thermal resistance θ_JA = 34.2 °C/W (junction to ground paddle, 5 V supply).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with HMC764LP6CE and ADF4371BCPZ, the HMC807LP6CETR uniquely balances Ku-band coverage, hardware CSP, and proven RFIC-level phase noise-making it optimal for production VSAT and military comms where deterministic settling and spectral purity are non-negotiable.

Availability

HMC807LP6CETR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for VSAT terminals, point-to-point microwave radios, and phased array radar systems requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle assurance, and traceable RoHS-compliant sourcing.

Supply support for HMC807LP6CETR 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 RFIC portfolio, emphasizing performance, reliability, and application-specific integration for defense, aerospace, and communications markets.

The HMC807LP6CETR belongs to Hittite's "PLLS w/ Integrated VCO" product line, designed specifically for microwave LO generation in compact, high-reliability transceivers where external VCOs and discrete loop filters would compromise size, phase noise, or thermal stability.

FAQ

What is the recommended power supply sequencing for HMC807LP6CETR?

HMC807LP6CETR requires strict power-up order: apply 3.3 V supplies (AVCC, DVDD, RVDD, etc.) before 5 V supplies (VCCVCO1, VDDCP). Violating this risks latch-up or degraded phase noise. The HMC807LP6CETR datasheet specifies AVDD must equal DVDD, and VCCCP must equal VDDCP-ensuring matched rail behavior across analog and charge pump domains.

Does HMC807LP6CETR support integer-N mode only, or is fractional-N required?

HMC807LP6CETR supports both integer-N and fractional-N modes via register configuration. Integer mode delivers −98 dBc/Hz @ 10 kHz (vs. −95 dBc/Hz in fractional), with improved spur performance but coarser 50 MHz step resolution. Fractional mode enables 3 Hz resolution and is mandatory for narrow-channel applications like satellite FDMA.

How is the VTUNE pin used during FSK modulation on HMC807LP6CETR?

In Direct FSK Modulation Mode, the HMC807LP6CETR uses VTUNE as a high-speed analog modulation port-bypassing the PLL loop filter. The internal modulator applies fast voltage shifts (within 2–13 V range) to generate binary frequency shifts. External drive must be low-impedance (< 50 Ω) to preserve modulation fidelity and avoid loop instability.

Can HMC807LP6CETR drive a mixer directly without an amplifier?

Yes-HMC807LP6CETR delivers 8 dBm typical RF output power into 50 Ω, sufficient to drive Hittite's HMC series high-linearity mixers (e.g., HMC774A, HMC1040) without intermediate gain. However, AC coupling is mandatory (via external 100 pF capacitor), and PCB layout must maintain 50 Ω controlled impedance and solid RF ground return.

What is the function of Pin 20 (BIAS) on HMC807LP6CETR, and how should it be used?

Pin 20 (BIAS) provides a precision 1.920 V ±20 mV internal reference for external bias networks. It cannot drive loads-measuring it requires a ≥10 GΩ meter (e.g., Agilent 34410A); standard 10 MΩ DVMs will read erroneously low. Use only for high-impedance sensing or as a calibration reference; never connect to capacitors or resistive dividers.