Analog Devices Inc. HMC988LP3E

Overview

HMC988LP3E from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is an ultra-low-noise programmable clock divider and delay IC for precision timing distribution. It supports DC–4 GHz input/output, divides by 1/2/4/8/16/32, provides 60-step 20 ps fine delay adjustment, and delivers –170 dBc/Hz phase noise floor at 100 MHz output - ideal for high-performance data converter clocking and basestation DPD paths.

For engineers reviewing the HMC988LP3E datasheet, HMC988LP3E pinout, HMC988LP3E application, or HMC988LP3E equivalent, this page details its verified low-jitter performance (35 fsRMS integrated jitter @ 100 MHz), SPI-configurable coarse/fine delay, LVPECL/LVDS/CML/CMOS-compatible inputs, and 3×3 mm QFN package - all critical for clock skew management and setup/hold margin optimization in RF and mixed-signal systems.

Technical Context

The HMC988LP3E implements a high-fidelity divide-by-N counter with dual-stage delay control: coarse delay via SLIP-triggered cycle alignment and fine delay using a 60-step, ~20 ps resolution analog delay line. Its phase-locked architecture maintains sub-150 fs/°C temperature drift in propagation delay across –40°C to +85°C.

It features fully differential OSCP/OSCN and DIVP/DIVN interfaces, on-chip 50 Ω termination (100 Ω differential), and flexible power options: direct 3.3 V operation or regulated 5 V input with internal LDO (bypassable). Up to eight devices share one SPI bus via 3-bit chip addressing (CHIP0–CHIP2) and broadcast mode (address "111").

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 3 × 3 mm, 16-pin leadless QFN (RoHS-compliant, matte tin finish, MSL1, marking "H988")

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar programmable clock divider and delay applications.

Compared with LTC6957-3 and Si5341-B-GM, the HMC988LP3E uniquely balances ultra-low additive jitter (35 fsRMS), 60-step 20 ps fine delay, and multi-ratio division in a 3×3 mm package - making it optimal for single-channel, high-precision timing calibration where board space and deterministic delay control are critical.

Availability

HMC988LP3E is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for basestation DPD, high-performance ATE, and backplane clock skew management requiring stable component supply, consistent parametric performance, and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for HMC988LP3E 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 continues to manufacture and support its high-frequency RF and microwave IC portfolio.

The HMC988LP3E belongs to Analog Devices' Clock Distribution product line, designed specifically for ultra-low-jitter clock division, delay calibration, and phase coherence in RF transceivers, test instrumentation, and high-speed data conversion systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum input frequency supported by the HMC988LP3E?

The HMC988LP3E supports an input frequency range from DC to 4 GHz, as confirmed in Table 1 of the datasheet. This includes full functionality for divide ratios, fine delay adjustment, and phase synchronization across the entire band - with measured performance validated up to 4 GHz in typical applications such as basestation DPD and ATE clock generation.

Does the HMC988LP3E support LVDS input signals?

Yes, the HMC988LP3E supports LVDS input signals. Its flexible input interface explicitly lists LVDS compatibility alongside LVPECL, CML, and CMOS, and supports both AC and DC coupling. On-chip 50 Ω termination (100 Ω differential) is provided for proper LVDS signal integrity, as detailed in the General Description and Table 1 electrical specifications.

How many HMC988LP3E devices can be controlled on a single SPI bus?

Up to eight HMC988LP3E devices can be controlled on a single SPI bus. This is achieved using the 3-bit hardware address pins (CHIP0, CHIP1, CHIP2) for individual addressing and a dedicated broadcast mode (chip address "111") that enables simultaneous register writes or trigger events across all connected devices.

What is the fine delay resolution and total range of the HMC988LP3E?

The HMC988LP3E offers a fine delay resolution of 20 ps per step across 60 discrete steps, yielding a total adjustable range of 300 ps to 1500 ps depending on output frequency. At 1 GHz output, the full 60-step range is valid; with divider bypassed (÷1), maximum frequency is limited to 650 MHz per datasheet Figure 6 and footnote [7].

Is an external power supply regulator required for the HMC988LP3E?

No, an external regulator is not required. The HMC988LP3E integrates an on-chip regulator supporting 4.5–5.5 V input (VDD5), generating a stable internal 3.3 V rail. This regulator can be bypassed to operate directly from 3.1–3.5 V - offering design flexibility. Decoupling capacitors at VDD3_DECAP, FB_DECAP, and BGAP_DECAP are mandatory regardless of mode.