Analog Devices Inc. HMC-C043
- Part No.:
- HMC-C043
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc.
- Category:
- RF Mixers
- Package:
- Module, SMA Connectors
- Datasheet:
-
HMC-C043.pdf
- Description:
- I/Q MIX / IRM MODULE 11 - 16 GHZ
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:2,633
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Product details
Overview
HMC-C043 from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a GaAs MMIC passive I/Q mixer module operating from 11–16 GHz RF/LO and DC–3.5 GHz IF, delivering 9–12 dB conversion loss, 30 dB image rejection, +28 dBm input IP3, and −55 °C to +85 °C operation - ideal for point-to-point radio transceivers requiring high-sideband purity and stable quadrature performance.
For engineers reviewing the HMC-C043 datasheet, HMC-C043 pinout, HMC-C043 application, or HMC-C043 equivalent, this module's hermetic C-4 package, field-replaceable SMA connectors, and verified I/Q amplitude/phase balance (≤0.5 dB / ≤5°) support rapid integration into microwave upconverter and image-reject downconverter designs without hybrid assembly compromises.
Technical Context
The HMC-C043 implements two double-balanced GaAs MESFET mixer cells with an integrated 90° hybrid to enable true I/Q mixing functionality. It operates as either an image-reject mixer (IRM) or single-sideband upconverter, with external IF hybrid required for optimal conversion gain and sideband suppression.
Its DC–3.5 GHz IF bandwidth supports baseband and wideband intermediate frequencies, while LO drive at +19 dBm yields 30 dB image rejection and >35 dB LO-to-RF isolation. The module's removable SMA connectors allow direct microstrip or coplanar waveguide interfacing when board space or loss budget demands it.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| RF/LO Frequency Range | 11–16 GHz - defines usable microwave band for E-band point-to-point links and test instrumentation. |
| IF Frequency Range | DC–3.5 GHz - enables zero-IF and low-IF architectures including baseband I/Q sampling. |
| Conversion Loss (IRM) | 9–12 dB - sets minimum gain budget required in receive chain before IF amplification. |
| Image Rejection | 15–30 dB typical - determines residual image power level impacting dynamic range in IRM mode. |
| Input IP3 | +28 dBm - indicates strong linearity for handling multi-carrier signals without intermodulation distortion. |
| LO to RF Isolation | 30–35 dB - reduces LO leakage into antenna path, easing filtering requirements in transceiver front-ends. |
| Operating Temperature | −55 °C to +85 °C - qualifies for deployment in outdoor wireless infrastructure and military platforms. |
Pinout & Package
Hermetically sealed C-4 package (Kovar body, gold-plated nickel finish) with field-replaceable Tensolite 5602-5CCSF SMA connectors and integrated mounting spacer. Dimensions per outline drawing; weight 20 g ±1 g including connectors.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | RF | AC-coupled 50 Ω RF port - requires external DC blocking if used in upconverter mode with DC-coupled LO. |
| 2 | IF1 | DC-coupled I-channel output - must limit current to ≤3 mA; external series capacitor needed unless DC operation required. |
| 3 | IF2 | DC-coupled Q-channel output - identical interface constraints as IF1; forms quadrature pair with IF1. |
| 4 | LO | AC-coupled 50 Ω local oscillator input - matched for +17 to +21 dBm drive; critical for image rejection stability. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Passive I/Q architecture | No bias required - eliminates DC power supply design, thermal drift, and noise from active components. |
| Hermetic C-4 module | Sealed Kovar housing ensures long-term reliability in humid, high-vibration, or temperature-cycling environments. |
| Removable SMA connectors | Enables direct RF/IF trace connection - reduces insertion loss and parasitic discontinuities vs. connectorized routing. |
| Amplitude & phase balance | ≤0.5 dB amplitude / ≤5° phase error across 11–16 GHz - directly enables ≥30 dB image rejection without calibration. |
| Wide IF bandwidth | DC–3.5 GHz - supports complex modulation schemes (e.g., 256-QAM) and software-defined radio flexibility. |
Applications
| Point-to-Point Radios | Test Equipment & Sensors |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: High-capacity 5G backhaul links operating in E-band (71–76 GHz or 81–86 GHz) using frequency translation via IF-staging. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Image-reject downconverter converting 73 GHz RF to 1.5 GHz IF while suppressing adjacent channel interference. Use Value: 30 dB image rejection and +28 dBm IP3 maintain EVM <2% under multi-tone loading in compact outdoor radios. |
Use Scenario: Vector network analyzer (VNA) receiver front-end requiring broadband, calibrated I/Q sampling. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Passive I/Q mixer providing phase-coherent IF outputs for real-time digital demodulation and error vector analysis. Use Value: DC–3.5 GHz IF bandwidth and ≤5° phase balance enable accurate wideband S-parameter measurement up to 16 GHz. |
| Point-to-Multi-Point Radios & VSAT | Military End-Use |
|
Use Scenario: Satellite ground terminal uplink path generating clean single-sideband signals for Ku-band upconversion. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Single-sideband upconverter translating 1.2 GHz IF to 14 GHz RF with minimal carrier and image leakage. Use Value: >35 dB LO-to-RF isolation and field-replaceable SMA connectors simplify maintenance in remote VSAT installations. |
Use Scenario: EW/ESM receiver front-end needing rugged, temperature-stable image rejection across tactical frequency bands. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Hermetic I/Q mixer performing jammer-resistant downconversion in airborne radar warning receivers. Use Value: −55 °C to +85 °C operation and 145 °C/W thermal resistance ensure reliability in uncontrolled avionics bays. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar I/Q mixer applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| HMC1040LP4E | Wider RF range (6–26 GHz), higher conversion loss (13–16 dB), no hermetic packaging. | Better suited for lab-grade broadband test equipment than field-deployed radios. | Select when wider frequency coverage outweighs environmental ruggedness and image rejection. |
| Qorvo QM11020 | Integrated LO amplifier, 10–16 GHz RF, +23 dBm IP3, surface-mount QFN package (no SMA). | Optimized for compact SMT-based phased-array modules, not connectorized systems. | Choose for automated assembly and lower BOM count where LO drive margin is limited. |
Compared with HMC-C043, HMC1040LP4E trades hermetic reliability and image rejection for broader bandwidth, while QM11020 sacrifices connector flexibility and DC-coupled IF for integration and manufacturability - making HMC-C043 optimal for field-serviceable, high-linearity microwave radios.
Availability
HMC-C043 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for point-to-point radios, test equipment & sensors, and military end-use applications requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle assurance, and guaranteed traceable sourcing.
Supply support for HMC-C043 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 signal processing, RF, and microwave solutions for communications, defense, and instrumentation.
The HMC-C043 belongs to Hittite's legacy GaAs MMIC mixer module family, engineered specifically for high-reliability microwave transceivers demanding consistent I/Q balance, hermetic sealing, and field-serviceable connectivity.
FAQ
What is the recommended LO drive level for optimal performance of the HMC-C043?
The HMC-C043 achieves best image rejection (30 dB typical) and conversion loss (9–12 dB) at +19 dBm LO drive. Operation between +17 dBm and +21 dBm is supported, but deviation reduces sideband suppression and increases conversion loss variation across frequency. Absolute maximum LO drive is +27 dBm; exceeding this risks permanent damage to the GaAs MMIC core.
Can the HMC-C043 be used for both upconversion and downconversion?
Yes, the HMC-C043 functions as both a single-sideband upconverter and an image-reject downconverter. In upconverter mode, IF1/IF2 accept baseband I/Q inputs to generate RF output; in downconverter mode, RF input produces I/Q IF outputs. Performance data in the datasheet assumes downconversion unless explicitly noted - upconverter metrics (e.g., sideband rejection) require external IF hybrid and separate characterization.
Does the HMC-C043 require DC bias or external power?
No, the HMC-C043 is a fully passive GaAs MMIC mixer module and requires no DC bias or external power supply. Its operation depends solely on RF, LO, and IF signal integrity. However, IF1 and IF2 pins are DC-coupled and must not source/sink more than 3 mA - excessive current causes non-function or failure.
What is the purpose of the removable SMA connectors on the HMC-C043?
The removable SMA connectors on the HMC-C043 allow direct microstrip or coplanar waveguide connection to PCB traces, eliminating connector-related insertion loss, VSWR degradation, and mechanical repeatability issues. When removed, pins 1 (RF), 2 (IF1), 3 (IF2), and 4 (LO) become accessible for solder-down or spring-pin interfacing - critical for low-loss, high-frequency system integration.
How does the hermetic C-4 package benefit long-term deployment of the HMC-C043?
The hermetic C-4 package uses Kovar™ alloy with gold-plated nickel finish and sealed construction to prevent moisture ingress, oxidation, and particle contamination - ensuring stable RF performance over 15+ years in outdoor enclosures, airborne platforms, or high-humidity environments. This contrasts with plastic or non-hermetic modules that degrade in conversion loss and isolation under thermal cycling.
HMC-C043 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc.
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- Module, SMA Connectors
- Packaging:
- Box
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- RF Type:
- VSAT
- Frequency:
- 11GHz ~ 16GHz
- Number of Mixers:
- 2
- Gain:
- -
- Noise Figure:
- -
- Secondary Attributes:
- -
- Current - Supply:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Connector Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- Module
HMC-C043 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for HMC-C043 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for HMC-C043 on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for HMC-C043 reliable?
The price and inventory of HMC-C043 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for HMC-C043 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for HMC-C043?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for HMC-C043 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for HMC-C043?
HMC-C043 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your HMC-C043 order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for HMC-C043?
For technical support, including HMC-C043 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your HMC-C043 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that HMC-C043 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All HMC-C043 products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that HMC-C043 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of HMC-C043?
All HMC-C043 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with HMC-C043, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The HMC-C043 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for HMC-C043:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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