Qorvo QPC1008
- Part No.:
- QPC1008
- Manufacturer:
- Qorvo
- Category:
- Attenuators
- Package:
- 24-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
QPC1008.pdf
- Description:
- DC-20GHZ 5-BIT DIGITAL ATTENUATO
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:2,565
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Product details
Overview
QPC1008 from Qorvo is a negative-voltage-controlled, wideband GaAs MMIC 5-bit digital step attenuator with integrated 1 dB voltage-variable attenuator (VVA), operating from DC to 20 GHz. It delivers 32 dB total attenuation (31 dB digital + 1 dB analog), 5 dB typical insertion loss at 10 GHz, and 50 Ω RF port matching - enabling direct integration into high-frequency test, radar, and phased array front-ends without external matching.
For engineers reviewing the QPC1008 datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection considerations include its -5 V digital/analog control interface, 24 ns rise time, ±0.3 dB digital accuracy (1–8 dB states), 12 dB input/output return loss, and leadless 3.9 × 3.9 mm surface-mount package for millimeter-wave PCB layouts.
Technical Context
The QPC1008 implements a hybrid attenuation architecture: five digitally controlled bits (1/2/4/8/16 dB) driven by discrete -5 V / 0 V logic levels, plus an analog VVA stage controlled continuously from -5 V to 0 V. All control inputs are referenced to a common negative bias rail (Vee = -5 V), eliminating need for level-shifting circuitry in negative-supply RF systems.
Its monolithic GaAs design supports full DC–20 GHz operation with stable small-signal performance: P0.1dB = 22 dBm, input IP3 = 33 dBm, and relative phase variation ≤30° across digital states. Thermal resistance θJC = 131.3 °C/W enables reliable CW operation up to +85 °C ambient with proper heatsinking.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Frequency Range | DC to 20 GHz - supports broadband instrumentation, EW, and Ka-band radar signal conditioning without band switching. |
| Total Attenuation Range | 32 dB (31 dB digital + 1 dB analog) - enables fine-grained RF power control across multi-decade dynamic range. |
| Insertion Loss (Ref. State) | 5 dB typical at 10 GHz - minimizes system noise figure degradation in receiver chains and transmitter output stages. |
| Digital Control Interface | -5 V / 0 V logic levels per bit - compatible with standard negative-supply CMOS/TTL drivers; no level translation required. |
| Switching Speed | 24 ns rise / 6 ns fall time - supports fast AGC loops and pulsed-RF applications such as T/R module calibration. |
| Package Dimensions | 3.9 × 3.9 × 0.9 mm leadless SMT - enables dense RF layout in space-constrained mmWave modules and ATE fixtures. |
| Input/Output Return Loss | ≥12 dB across frequency - ensures stable 50 Ω impedance match, reducing VSWR-induced measurement uncertainty. |
Pinout & Package
QPC1008 uses a 24-pin leadless surface-mount package (3.9 × 3.9 mm footprint) with exposed backside ground. Pins 1, 3–14 are NC; pins 3 and 16 serve as DC-coupled 50 Ω RF input/output; pins 2, 4, 15, 17 and backside are ground; pin 18 is Vee (-5 V bias); pins 19–23 are digital control inputs P1–P5; pin 24 is analog control input P0.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| RF In / RF Out (Pins 3, 16) | DC-coupled 50 Ω RF ports | Enable bidirectional signal flow without blocking capacitors; support baseband-to-millimeter-wave operation. |
| Vee (Pin 18) | Negative bias supply | Single -5 V rail powers both digital logic and analog VVA; eliminates dual-rail bias complexity. |
| P1–P5 (Pins 19–23) | Digital attenuation bit controls | Each accepts -5 V (high) or 0 V (low); LSB = 1 dB, MSB = 16 dB; summing yields 31 dB discrete steps. |
| P0 (Pin 24) | Analog VVA control | 0 V to -5 V sweep adjusts attenuation continuously over 1 dB range, enabling precise gain trimming. |
| Ground (Pins 2, 4, 15, 17, Backside) | RF/DC reference plane | Multiple low-inductance ground paths minimize parasitic resonance and thermal resistance in high-frequency layouts. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Hybrid digital-analog attenuation | Combines 5-bit (31 dB) resolution with 1 dB analog fine-tuning - achieves 0.1 dB effective step resolution in closed-loop systems. |
| DC–20 GHz bandwidth | Operates continuously from baseband through Ka-band - eliminates need for multiple narrowband attenuators in wideband test equipment. |
| 50 Ω matched RF ports | No external matching networks required - reduces board area, insertion loss, and layout sensitivity in high-frequency designs. |
| Low distortion linearity | Input IP3 = 33 dBm at 10 GHz - preserves signal integrity in multi-tone radar and communications waveforms. |
| Fast switching speed | tRise/tFall = 24/6 ns - supports real-time adaptive beamforming and rapid channel calibration in active phased arrays. |
Applications
| Electronic Warfare (EW) Receivers | Automated Test Equipment (ATE) |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Wideband signal conditioning in DRFM-based jammer front-ends requiring rapid, repeatable attenuation under threat waveform dynamics. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary RF gain control element in IF/RF downconversion chain, providing programmable attenuation synchronized to pulse timing. Use Value: 32 dB dynamic range and 24 ns switching enable real-time amplitude masking of incoming threats without latency-induced phase discontinuity. |
Use Scenario: Precision stimulus level control in vector network analyzer (VNA) calibration kits and RF parametric test systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Programmable reference attenuator in automated calibration path, replacing mechanical step attenuators. Use Value: 5 dB insertion loss and ±0.3 dB digital accuracy reduce measurement uncertainty in S-parameter traceability to <0.05 dB. |
| Radar Transceiver Modules | Phased Array Antenna Systems |
Use Scenario: Transmit power leveling and receive AGC in X/Ku-band active electronically scanned array (AESA) T/R modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Closed-loop RF power conditioner between PA driver and antenna port, responding to temperature- and aging-compensated feedback. Use Value: 22 dBm P0.1dB and 131.3 °C/W thermal resistance allow sustained operation at +85 °C ambient in compact radar enclosures. |
Use Scenario: Per-element amplitude weighting in Ka-band satellite communication phased arrays to shape beam patterns and suppress sidelobes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Digitally controlled amplitude shaper in each radiating element's transmit/receive path. Use Value: DC–20 GHz flatness and 12 dB return loss ensure consistent element-level gain control across full scan angle without pattern distortion. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar wideband digital step attenuator applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| HMC624LP4E | 4-bit (15 dB max), 0.1–8 GHz range, +5 V control interface, 6.5 dB IL at 6 GHz | Limited to sub-8 GHz; requires positive logic drivers and external level shifters for negative-bias systems | Select when cost-sensitive L-band/microwave designs prioritize lower control voltage compatibility over Ka-band coverage. |
| PE43711 | 6-bit (31.5 dB), 9 kHz–8 GHz, SPI interface, 3.3 V supply, 4.5 dB IL at 6 GHz | Requires serial interface and separate VDD/VSS rails; not rated beyond 8 GHz; lacks analog VVA | Choose for microcontroller-driven lab instruments needing software-configurable attenuation below 8 GHz with minimal GPIO usage. |
Compared with HMC624LP4E and PE43711, the QPC1008 uniquely supports DC–20 GHz operation with integrated analog fine-tuning and single-rail -5 V control - making it the only option among the three qualified for Ka-band phased array and electronic warfare systems requiring >10 GHz bandwidth and sub-dB resolution.
Availability
QPC1008 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for electronic warfare receivers, automated test equipment, and radar transceiver modules requiring stable component supply, high-frequency reliability, and RoHS-compliant packaging.
Supply support for QPC1008 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
Qorvo is a U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in RF solutions for defense, aerospace, and high-performance wireless infrastructure.
The QPC1008 belongs to Qorvo's high-frequency GaAs MMIC attenuator product line, engineered specifically for demanding electronic warfare, radar, and test instrumentation applications requiring broadband, low-distortion, and fast-switching RF control.
FAQ
What is the maximum RF input power rating for the QPC1008?
The QPC1008 has an absolute maximum continuous-wave RF input power rating of +27 dBm at 25 °C. Its typical P0.1dB compression point is 22 dBm at 10 GHz, meaning the QPC1008 maintains linear operation up to that level before measurable gain compression occurs. Operation above P0.1dB may introduce harmonic distortion or intermodulation products, so system design should limit peak input power to ≤22 dBm for optimal signal fidelity in the QPC1008.
Does the QPC1008 require external matching components at its RF ports?
No, the QPC1008 does not require external matching components. Its RF input and output ports are internally matched to 50 Ω across the full DC–20 GHz range, as confirmed by ≥12 dB input and output return loss in the datasheet. This 50 Ω match eliminates the need for series inductors, shunt capacitors, or quarter-wave transformers - simplifying PCB layout and preserving signal integrity in high-frequency paths where the QPC1008 is deployed.
How is attenuation controlled on the QPC1008 - digital, analog, or both?
The QPC1008 uses both digital and analog control: five independent digital bits (P1–P5) provide coarse 1/2/4/8/16 dB steps (totaling 31 dB), while a dedicated analog control voltage (P0) adds fine 1 dB adjustment. Digital bits accept -5 V (active) or 0 V (inactive); P0 accepts a continuous -5 V to 0 V sweep. The QPC1008 thus delivers true hybrid attenuation - combining the repeatability of digital control with the precision of analog trimming in a single device.
What is the recommended bias supply configuration for the QPC1008?
The QPC1008 requires a single negative bias supply (Vee) at -5 V applied to Pin 18, with tolerance of -5.5 V to -2.5 V. All digital control inputs (P1–P5) and the analog control input (P0) are referenced to this same Vee rail. No positive supply is needed. The QPC1008's design eliminates dual-rail biasing - simplifying power delivery and reducing noise coupling risks in sensitive RF subsystems where the QPC1008 operates.
Is the QPC1008 suitable for use in lead-free reflow soldering processes?
Yes, the QPC1008 is fully compatible with lead-free reflow soldering, supporting a peak temperature of 260 °C per JEDEC J-STD-020. Its contact plating uses ENEPIG (Electroless Nickel/Electroless Palladium/Immersion Gold), ensuring robust solder wetting and intermetallic formation. However, solder rework is not recommended due to thermal stress on the GaAs die; the QPC1008 should be placed correctly during initial assembly to avoid post-reflow correction attempts.
QPC1008 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Qorvo
- Package/Case:
- 24-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Series:
- -
- Packaging:
- Tray
- Product Status:
- Active
- Attenuation Value:
- 32dB
- Frequency Range:
- 0 Hz ~ 20 GHz
- Power (Watts):
- -
- Impedance:
- -
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
QPC1008 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for QPC1008 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for QPC1008 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 QPC1008 reliable?
The price and inventory of QPC1008 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for QPC1008 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for QPC1008?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for QPC1008 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for QPC1008?
QPC1008 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your QPC1008 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 QPC1008?
For technical support, including QPC1008 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your QPC1008 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that QPC1008 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All QPC1008 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 QPC1008 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of QPC1008?
All QPC1008 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with QPC1008, 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 QPC1008 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for QPC1008:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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