Analog Devices Inc. HMC967LP4E

Overview

HMC967LP4E from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a GaAs MMIC I/Q downconverter IC designed for RF-to-IF signal translation in 21–24 GHz systems. It delivers 15 dB small-signal conversion gain, 2.5 dB noise figure, and 25 dBc image rejection, with integrated LNA and active x2 LO multiplier - enabling direct RF input without external image-reject filtering. It serves as the core downconversion stage in millimeter-wave point-to-point radios and EW receivers.

For engineers reviewing the HMC967LP4E datasheet, HMC967LP4E pinout, HMC967LP4E application, or HMC967LP4E equivalent, key selection criteria include its 21–24 GHz RF bandwidth, DC–3.5 GHz IF output range, 24-pin 4×4 mm SMT package, and requirement for an external 90° hybrid to select USB/LSB sideband.

Technical Context

The HMC967LP4E implements a two-stage architecture: a GaAs LNA followed by an image-reject mixer driven by an on-chip active x2 LO multiplier. This eliminates thermal noise contribution at the image frequency and removes the need for post-LNA image-reject filtering.

It operates with LO input in 8.8–13.5 GHz range (x2 multiplication yields effective LO drive at 17.6–27 GHz), supports DC-coupled IF outputs (IF1/IF2), and requires three independent supply rails: VDRF (RF LNA), VDLO1 (LO amp stage 1), and VDLO2 (LO amp stage 2).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 24-lead, leadless RoHS-compliant SMT package, 4 × 4 mm body size, exposed ground paddle. Requires soldering of all ground leads and paddle to PCB RF ground per Hittite land pattern guidelines.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar I/Q downconverter applications.

Compared with HMC1040LP4E and Qorvo QPB7420, the HMC967LP4E offers the best balance of noise figure (2.5 dB), image rejection (25 dBc), and compact 4×4 mm footprint for 21–24 GHz point-to-point and EW applications requiring DC-coupled I/Q outputs.

Availability

HMC967LP4E is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for millimeter-wave point-to-point radios, military radar receivers, and satellite communications uplinks requiring stable component supply, consistent RF performance, and RoHS-compliant SMT packaging.

Supply support for HMC967LP4E 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 portfolio, specializing in GaAs and SiGe MMIC solutions for defense, aerospace, and communications markets.

The HMC967LP4E belongs to Hittite's legacy IRM (Image Reject Mixer) product line, engineered specifically for compact, high-performance downconversion in Ka-band wireless infrastructure and electronic warfare systems.

FAQ

What is the recommended LO drive level for optimal performance of the HMC967LP4E?

The HMC967LP4E achieves best conversion gain (15 dB) and image rejection (25 dBc) at +6 dBm LO drive, as specified in the electrical characteristics table. Performance degrades below +2 dBm or above +6 dBm due to compression or reduced mixer efficiency. The device supports LO input from 8.8–13.5 GHz, internally doubled to match the 21–24 GHz RF band. Always verify LO power at the HMC967LP4E pin using calibrated measurement.

Does the HMC967LP4E require an external 90° hybrid, and why?

Yes, the HMC967LP4E requires an external 90° hybrid connected to its IF1 and IF2 outputs to resolve upper or lower sideband selection. The device provides quadrature IF signals but does not integrate phase-shifting circuitry. Without the hybrid, sideband discrimination is impossible - making the external component mandatory for functional I/Q downconversion in the HMC967LP4E application.

Can the HMC967LP4E operate with DC-coupled IF outputs, and what are the limits?

Yes, both IF1 and IF2 pins are DC-coupled and support true baseband operation. However, each IF output must not sink or source more than ±3 mA DC current to avoid non-function or permanent damage. For AC-coupled applications, series capacitors sized for the target IF bandwidth (e.g., 100 pF for >1 GHz) may be added externally - but DC coupling remains fully supported per HMC967LP4E design specifications.

What is the thermal resistance and maximum channel temperature of the HMC967LP4E?

The HMC967LP4E has a thermal resistance (R_TH) of 79.6 °C/W from channel to package bottom. Its absolute maximum channel temperature is 175 °C, with continuous power dissipation rated at 1.13 W at T_A = 85 °C (derated 12.5 mW/°C above that). Proper PCB thermal design - including full soldering of the exposed ground paddle and multiple thermal vias - is essential to maintain reliability in the HMC967LP4E application.

Is the HMC967LP4E pin-compatible with other Hittite IRM devices like the HMC1040LP4E?

No, the HMC967LP4E is not pin-compatible with the HMC1040LP4E. While both are GaAs I/Q downconverters in leadless packages, the HMC967LP4E uses a 24-pin 4×4 mm layout with dedicated VDRF, VDLO1, and VDLO2 supplies, whereas the HMC1040LP4E uses a 24-pin 5×5 mm package with different pin assignments and shared supply configurations. PCB redesign is required when substituting between these models - the HMC967LP4E pinout must be implemented per its specific land pattern.