Analog Devices Inc. HMC986A-SX

Overview

HMC986A-SX from Analog Devices is a reflective GaAs MMIC SPDT switch operating from 0.1 GHz to 50 GHz, delivering 2.3 dB insertion loss and 30 dB isolation at 50 GHz, with −5 V to −3 V negative logic control, designed for broadband microwave signal routing in test instrumentation and radar front-ends.

For engineers reviewing the HMC986A-SX datasheet, HMC986A-SX pinout, HMC986A-SX application, or HMC986A-SX equivalent, this page provides verified RF performance data, die-level mounting guidance, control voltage truth table, thermal resistance (θJC = 260 °C/W), and validated alternatives for high-frequency switching in VSAT and ECM systems.

Technical Context

The HMC986A-SX implements a reflective 50 Ω SPDT architecture using GaAs MMIC process, enabling bidirectional RF operation with dc-coupled RFC, RF1, and RF2 ports requiring no external blocking capacitors when biased at 0 V dc. Its two negative logic control inputs (V1/V2) select path state via complementary high/low voltage pairs.

Switching is optimized for minimal bond-length interconnects: RF paths use 3.0 mil × 0.5 mil ribbon bonds to 50 Ω microstrip lines on alumina substrates, while thermal management requires direct eutectic or conductive epoxy attachment of the 0.1 mm-thick die bottom to ground plane.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 13-pad bare die (C-13-1), 0.98 mm × 0.75 mm × 0.1 mm, back-metallized for direct eutectic or conductive epoxy attachment to ground plane.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar SPDT switch applications.

Compared with HMC986A-SX, HMC1082A-SX trades 7 GHz bandwidth and 3 dBm P1dB for lower cost, while QM11036 introduces logic polarity and package incompatibility-neither offers pin-to-pin replacement, making HMC986A-SX the sole choice for 50 GHz reflective switching with negative control.

Availability

HMC986A-SX is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for test instrumentation, military radar front-ends, and broadband telecommunications systems requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and high-frequency performance continuity.

Supply support for HMC986A-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 is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and RF ICs, serving precision instrumentation, communications, and defense markets since 1965.

The HMC986A-SX belongs to the Hittite Microwave (acquired by Analog Devices) GaAs MMIC switch family, engineered specifically for broadband, high-isolation, high-linearity RF path selection in demanding microwave and millimeter-wave systems.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for the HMC986A-SX?

The HMC986A-SX is specified for die bottom temperature (TDIE) from −55°C to +85°C. Junction temperature must not exceed 150°C. Performance data in the datasheet is measured at 25°C, with insertion loss, isolation, and linearity characterized across this full range-critical for deployment in airborne radar and outdoor VSAT enclosures.

Does the HMC986A-SX require dc blocking capacitors on its RF ports?

No, the HMC986A-SX does not require dc blocking capacitors on RFC, RF1, or RF2 because all three RF pads are dc-coupled to 0 V and ac-matched to 50 Ω. Blocking is only necessary if the connected RF line operates at a non-zero dc potential-otherwise, omitting capacitors preserves broadband response and reduces parasitic impedance discontinuities.

How is the HMC986A-SX mounted to ensure optimal RF and thermal performance?

The HMC986A-SX must be attached directly to the PCB ground plane via eutectic gold-tin preform or electrically conductive epoxy due to its back-metallized die construction. Die thickness is 0.102 mm; recommended RF interconnect uses 3 mil × 0.5 mil ribbon bonds to minimize inductance. Thermal resistance θJC is 260 °C/W-achievable only with full ground-plane contact.

What control voltage levels are valid for reliable operation of the HMC986A-SX?

Valid control voltages for the HMC986A-SX are −5 V to −3 V for logic high (V_INH) and 0 V to +0.2 V for logic low (V_INL). Exceeding −5.5 V or +0.5 V risks permanent damage. The device draws ≤10 µA at high control and ≤1 µA at low, enabling direct drive from standard negative-voltage logic buffers without level-shifting circuitry.

Can the HMC986A-SX be used in bidirectional RF signal paths?

Yes, the HMC986A-SX is fully bidirectional: RF signals may be applied to RFC with outputs at RF1/RF2, or applied to RF1/RF2 with output at RFC. All RF ports are dc-coupled and symmetrically matched to 50 Ω. This enables flexible integration in transceiver architectures where the same switch handles both transmit and receive paths without signal direction constraints.