NXP Semiconductors MHW7185CN

Overview

MHW7185CN from Freescale Semiconductor is a 40–750 MHz CATV forward power doubler amplifier module using silicon bipolar transistor technology, delivering 19.4 dB typical gain at 750 MHz, −64 dBc typical CTB110 distortion, and operating from a 24 Vdc supply with 400 mA typical current draw. It serves as an output-stage amplifier in optical nodes and trunk distribution amplifiers for 110-channel CATV systems.

For engineers reviewing the MHW7185CN datasheet, MHW7185CN pinout, MHW7185CN application, or MHW7185CN equivalent, key selection criteria include its 75 Ω system impedance match, unconditional stability across all load conditions, gain flatness of ≤0.6 dB (40–750 MHz), and RoHS-compliant Case 714Y-04 package with defined RF input/output terminals and DC bias pin.

Technical Context

The MHW7185CN is a monolithic RF power amplifier module optimized for broadband CATV forward-path applications. It integrates matched silicon bipolar transistors in a dual-stage configuration to achieve high linearity and stable gain over 40–750 MHz while maintaining unconditional stability under all 75 Ω load conditions.

Its design targets worst-case 110-channel flat composite distortion performance (CTB110 ≤ −62 dBc, CSO110 ≤ −64 dBc) at +44 dBmV/channel output, with noise figure ranging from 5.0 dB at 50 MHz to 6.2 dB at 750 MHz and slope-controlled gain variation ≤1.0 dB across the band.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: Case 714Y-04, Style 1 - Surface-mount metal-ceramic module with integrated heat slug, designed for RF shielding and thermal conduction to heatsink or PCB ground plane.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar CATV forward-path amplifier applications.

Compared with MHW7185CN, MW7IC2240NBR1 requires external matching for 75 Ω CATV use and trades off noise figure for gain, while QPA9807 offers comparable linearity in a smaller footprint but demands tighter thermal management due to reduced case thermal resistance.

Availability

MHW7185CN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for optical node output stages, trunk distribution amplifiers, and line extenders requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant CATV RF amplification.

Supply support for MHW7185CN 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

Freescale Semiconductor (now part of NXP Semiconductors) was a leading designer of RF power amplifiers for broadband communications infrastructure, emphasizing high-linearity, thermally robust solutions.

The MHW7185CN belongs to Freescale's CATV amplifier module product line, engineered specifically for reliability and distortion performance in 77- and 110-channel cable television forward-path systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum RF input voltage rating for the MHW7185CN?

The MHW7185CN has a maximum RF input voltage rating of +70 dBmV under single-tone conditions, as specified in its Absolute Maximum Ratings table. This limit ensures safe operation without device degradation or parametric shift. Exceeding +70 dBmV may cause irreversible damage to the internal bipolar transistors. The MHW7185CN must be operated within this input level constraint even during transient or fault conditions to maintain long-term reliability.

Does the MHW7185CN require external bias sequencing or startup circuitry?

No, the MHW7185CN operates with a single +24 Vdc supply applied directly to Pin 5 and does not require external bias sequencing, startup delay circuits, or enable control. Its internal bias network is self-regulating and stable across the −20°C to +100°C case temperature range. The MHW7185CN draws 400 mA typical current at +24 Vdc and remains unconditionally stable without additional circuitry, simplifying system integration.

Is the MHW7185CN pin-compatible with its predecessor MHW7185C?

Yes, the MHW7185CN is a direct replacement for MHW7185C with no form, fit, or function changes - including identical Case 714Y-04 package dimensions, pin numbering, terminal assignments, and electrical specifications. The MHW7185CN retains the same RF input (Pin 1), VDC (Pin 5), and RF output (Pin 9) layout, allowing drop-in substitution in existing PCB designs without layout modification.

What is the noise figure of the MHW7185CN at 550 MHz?

The MHW7185CN exhibits a typical noise figure of 5.8 dB at 550 MHz, as documented in Table 2 of its technical data sheet. This value is measured under standard conditions: VCC = 24 Vdc, TC = +30°C, and 75 Ω system impedance. The noise figure increases gradually across frequency - 5.0 dB at 50 MHz and 6.2 dB at 750 MHz - reflecting the inherent trade-off between gain, linearity, and noise in silicon bipolar CATV amplifiers like the MHW7185CN.

Can the MHW7185CN operate reliably at +28 Vdc supply voltage?

Yes, the MHW7185CN is rated for a maximum DC supply voltage of +28 Vdc per its Absolute Maximum Ratings, though it is characterized and optimized for +24 Vdc operation. At +28 Vdc, current draw increases to approximately 450 mA, and thermal management must be verified to maintain case temperature ≤+100°C. The MHW7185CN remains unconditionally stable and maintains specified distortion performance at +28 Vdc, making it suitable for systems with regulated 28 V rails.