Analog Devices Inc. HMC-C009

Overview

HMC-C009 from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a GaAs MMIC passive I/Q mixer module operating from 4.0–8.5 GHz RF/LO and DC–3.5 GHz IF, delivering 9.5 dB typical conversion loss, 35 dB image rejection, and +23 dBm input IP3 - used in image-reject receivers and single-sideband upconverters for radar and secure comms.

For engineers reviewing the HMC-C009 datasheet, HMC-C009 pinout, HMC-C009 application, or HMC-C009 equivalent, key selection criteria include its hermetic C-4 package with field-replaceable SMA connectors, wide IF bandwidth supporting DC-coupled baseband, and verified performance across –55°C to +85°C industrial/military temperature range.

Technical Context

The HMC-C009 integrates two double-balanced GaAs MESFET mixer cells with an on-chip 90° hybrid to enable true quadrature mixing without external phase-shifting networks. It operates as either an image-reject downconverter (IRM) or SSB upconverter, with all RF/LO ports AC-coupled and IF1/IF2 ports DC-coupled - requiring external DC blocking only when DC operation is not needed.

Its architecture achieves amplitude balance ≤0.2 dB and phase balance ≤6° over 4–8.5 GHz at +15 dBm LO drive, while maintaining >40 dB LO-to-RF isolation and >20 dB LO-to-IF isolation. Performance remains stable across temperature: image rejection varies only ±3 dB from –55°C to +85°C.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Hermetically sealed C-4 metal-ceramic package (Kovar™ body, gold-plated nickel finish), 20 g total weight including Tensolite 5602-5CCSF SMA connectors; mounting spacers included.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with HMC-C009, HMC1048LP4E offers compact footprint but sacrifices broadband coverage and ruggedized packaging, while ADL5375-05 enables active modulation control at the cost of added bias complexity and narrower IF range - making HMC-C009 optimal for unpowered, wideband, mission-critical receive/upconvert functions.

Availability

HMC-C009 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for radar front-ends, secure military radios, and satellite telemetry systems requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for HMC-C009 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 precision analog, RF, and microwave ICs for defense, aerospace, and communications.

The HMC-C009 belongs to Hittite's legacy GaAs MMIC mixer module family, engineered for high-reliability, wideband I/Q conversion in demanding RF systems where hybrid alternatives lack repeatability and thermal stability.

FAQ

What is the maximum LO drive level for the HMC-C009?

The HMC-C009 supports a maximum LO drive of +27 dBm per absolute maximum ratings. Typical operation uses +15 dBm LO drive to achieve optimal conversion loss (9.5 dB), image rejection (35 dB), and IP3 (+23 dBm). Exceeding +27 dBm risks permanent damage to the GaAs MMIC core. The HMC-C009 datasheet specifies that performance metrics are validated at +15 dBm, and LO drive above +19 dBm degrades amplitude/phase balance beyond spec limits.

Can the HMC-C009 be used as both an image-reject mixer and a single-sideband upconverter?

Yes, the HMC-C009 is explicitly designed for dual-mode operation: as an image-reject downconverter (IRM) or a single-sideband upconverter. Its internal 90° hybrid and dual double-balanced mixer cells enable quadrature mixing in either direction. When used as an upconverter, the IF1/IF2 ports accept baseband I/Q inputs while RF delivers the SSB output; as an IRM, RF receives the signal and IF1/IF2 deliver the complex baseband. The HMC-C009 functional diagram and application notes confirm both configurations are fully supported without hardware modification.

Does the HMC-C009 require DC bias or external power?

No, the HMC-C009 is a fully passive GaAs MMIC mixer module and requires no DC bias or external power supply. All functionality derives from LO injection and RF/IF signal energy alone. This eliminates power regulation, thermal management, and startup sequencing concerns - a key advantage in SWaP-constrained systems. The HMC-C009 pinout confirms pins 1 (RF), 2 (IF1), 3 (IF2), and 4 (LO) are all signal-only; no VDD, GND, or bias pins exist on the device.

What is the IF port DC current limit for the HMC-C009?

The HMC-C009 IF1 and IF2 ports are DC-coupled but must not source or sink more than ±3 mA of DC current. Exceeding this limit risks non-function or permanent damage due to internal junction stress. For applications not requiring DC response, external series capacitors should be used to block DC while passing the required IF band (DC–3.5 GHz). This specification is explicitly stated in the HMC-C009 pin descriptions and applies equally to both IF outputs.

Is the HMC-C009 compatible with standard 50 Ω microstrip layouts?

Yes, the HMC-C009 RF and LO ports are internally AC-coupled and impedance-matched to 50 Ω across 4.0–8.5 GHz, enabling direct integration with standard 50 Ω microstrip or coplanar waveguide PCB traces. The module's removable SMA connectors can be detached to expose solder pads for direct board-level connection - a feature documented in the HMC-C009 general description and outline drawing. This eliminates impedance discontinuities common with connectorized modules.