Analog Devices Inc. HMC829LP6GE

Overview

HMC829LP6GE from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a fractional-N phase-locked loop with integrated VCO, serving as a wideband RF synthesizer for LO generation and tunable reference applications. It delivers output frequencies across three bands: 45–1050 MHz, 1400–2100 MHz, and 2800–4200 MHz; supports up to 100 MHz phase detector rate; achieves –110 dBc/Hz in-band phase noise (typ); and provides <180 fs RMS jitter (250 kHz loop BW, 100 MHz ref).

For engineers reviewing the HMC829LP6GE datasheet, HMC829LP6GE pinout, HMC829LP6GE application, or HMC829LP6GE equivalent, this device is selected for ultra-low-spur infrastructure radios, high-data-rate transceivers, and precision test equipment requiring exact-frequency mode, sub-hertz resolution, and integrated VCO simplification.

Technical Context

The HMC829LP6GE integrates a fundamental VCO (2800–4200 MHz), programmable RF output divider (÷1/2/4/6…/62), and delta-sigma modulator enabling 24-bit fractional resolution (3 Hz typ step size). Its dual-mode phase detector supports integer (up to 125 MHz) and fractional (up to 100 MHz) operation with Exact Frequency Mode eliminating frequency error.

It features separate 3.3 V and 5 V supply domains: AVDD/VCCHF/VCCPS/RVDD/DVDD3V/VCCPD at 3.3 V; VPPCP/VDDLS/VCC1/VCC2 at 5 V. The VCO tuning sensitivity ranges from 11.5 to 15 MHz/V across band, with open-loop phase noise of –134.5 dBc/Hz at 1 MHz offset (4 GHz).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

40-lead, 6×6 mm SMT package (36 mm²) with exposed ground paddle; RoHS-compliant, MSL1, matte tin finish; thermal resistance θ_J-PD = 20 °C/W.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with HMC829LP6GE, HMC830LP6GE extends frequency coverage but sacrifices exact-frequency capability and increases board area, while ADF4355BCPZ offers lower noise and integrated LDOs but omits self-test and zero-error synthesis - making HMC829LP6GE optimal for infrastructure radios demanding spurious-free, deterministic frequency generation in compact layouts.

Availability

HMC829LP6GE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for cellular infrastructure, phased array radar, and high-speed test equipment requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing for production programs.

Supply support for HMC829LP6GE 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 RF product portfolio, specializing in microwave/mmWave ICs for defense, communications, and instrumentation.

The HMC829LP6GE belongs to Hittite's integrated PLL+VCO family, designed specifically for infrastructure-grade wireless systems requiring ultra-low phase noise, wideband agility, and deterministic frequency synthesis without external VCO tuning.

FAQ

What frequency bands does the HMC829LP6GE support?

The HMC829LP6GE supports three distinct RF output bands: 45–1050 MHz, 1400–2100 MHz, and 2800–4200 MHz. These are achieved via an integrated 2800–4200 MHz fundamental VCO combined with a programmable output divider (÷1/2/4/6…/62). Band selection is determined by the chosen divider ratio and is validated across temperature (–40°C to +85°C) and supply conditions. The HMC829LP6GE does not support continuous coverage across 1050–1400 MHz or 2100–2800 MHz gaps.

Does the HMC829LP6GE support exact frequency synthesis with zero error?

Yes, the HMC829LP6GE implements Exact Frequency Mode using its integrated delta-sigma modulator to eliminate fractional-N frequency error. When enabled (via register configuration), it generates output frequencies with 0 Hz residual error - critical for applications like DDS replacement and coherent multi-channel systems. This mode is confirmed operational across all supported bands and is independent of reference frequency choice, as verified in Figures 15–17 of the official datasheet.

What is the maximum phase detector frequency for the HMC829LP6GE?

The HMC829LP6GE supports a maximum phase detector frequency of 100 MHz in Fractional Mode B, 80 MHz in Fractional Mode A, and 125 MHz in Integer Mode. The 100 MHz limit applies only when minimum N-divider values are respected (e.g., PFD ≤ f_VCO/20). All modes are guaranteed across –40°C to +85°C and full voltage range, with slew rate ≥0.5 ns/V recommended on the reference input.

How is RF output configured - single-ended or differential?

The HMC829LP6GE provides both single-ended and differential RF output configurations via pins RF_N and RF_P. In single-ended mode, only RF_N is active; in differential mode, both RF_N and RF_P are active with 180° phase relationship. Output power is specified as 1–4.3 dBm (single-ended, 4000 MHz), with 3 dB additional headroom possible using differential termination. The mode is selected via register control and does not require hardware changes.

What power supply voltages does the HMC829LP6GE require?

The HMC829LP6GE requires two separate supply domains: five 3.3 V rails (AVDD, RVDD, DVDD3V, VCCPD, VCCHF, VCCPS) and four 5 V rails (VPPCP, VDDLS, VCC1, VCC2). Absolute maximum ratings are –0.3 V to +3.6 V for 3.3 V supplies and –0.3 V to +5.5 V for 5 V supplies. Each rail has defined current consumption (e.g., VCC2 draws 105 mA in fo/1 mode), and dedicated decoupling is mandatory per the Hittite PLL Operating Guide.