Overview
The HMC346AMS8GE is an absorptive Voltage Variable Attenuator (VVA) produced by Analog Devices Inc. This component is packaged in an 8-lead surface-mount package and operates over a wide frequency range from DC to 8 GHz. It is designed to provide precise control over RF signal levels using an analog DC control signal, making it ideal for various microwave applications.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Min | Typical | Max | Units |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Insertion Loss (DC - 8 GHz) | 1.5 | 2.5 | dB | |
| Attenuation Range (DC - 8 GHz) | 27 | 32 | dB | |
| Return Loss (DC - 8 GHz) | 5 | 10 | dB | |
| Switching Characteristics tRISE, tFALL (10/90% RF) | 2 | 8 | ns | |
| Switching Characteristics tON, tOFF (50% CTL to 10/90% RF) | 2 | 8 | ns | |
| Input Power for 0.25 dB Compression (0.5 - 8 GHz) | +8 | dBm | ||
| Input Third Order Intercept (0.5 - 8 GHz) | +25 | dBm | ||
| RF Input Power | +18 | dBm | ||
| Control Voltage Range | +0.3 | -6 | V | |
| Operating Temperature | -40 | +85 | °C | |
| Storage Temperature | -65 | +150 | °C |
Key Features
- Wide bandwidth operation from DC to 8 GHz
- Low phase shift versus attenuation
- 32 dB attenuation range
- On-chip reference attenuator for simple single voltage attenuation control
- External op-amp control circuit maintains impedance match while attenuation is varied
- Control input ranges from 0 Volts (minimum attenuation) to -5 Volts (maximum attenuation)
- 8-lead surface-mount package with exposed pad for improved thermal performance
Applications
- Point-to-Point Radio systems
- VSAT (Very Small Aperture Terminal) Radio systems
- Automatic Gain Control (AGC) circuits
- Temperature compensation of multiple gain stages in microwave systems
Q & A
- What is the frequency range of the HMC346AMS8GE?
The HMC346AMS8GE operates from DC to 8 GHz.
- What is the attenuation range of the HMC346AMS8GE?
The attenuation range is 27 dB to 32 dB.
- How is the attenuation controlled in the HMC346AMS8GE?
The attenuation is controlled using an external op-amp with a single voltage input ranging from 0 Volts to -5 Volts.
- What are the typical applications of the HMC346AMS8GE?
Typical applications include Point-to-Point Radio, VSAT Radio, AGC circuits, and temperature compensation in microwave systems.
- What is the maximum RF input power for the HMC346AMS8GE?
The maximum RF input power is +18 dBm.
- What is the operating temperature range of the HMC346AMS8GE?
The operating temperature range is -40°C to +85°C.
- What is the storage temperature range for the HMC346AMS8GE?
The storage temperature range is -65°C to +150°C.
- What type of package does the HMC346AMS8GE come in?
The component is packaged in an 8-lead surface-mount package with an exposed pad.
- Why is the HMC346AMS8GE suitable for AGC circuits?
The HMC346AMS8GE is suitable for AGC circuits due to its ability to control RF signal levels over a 30 dB amplitude range using an analog DC control signal.
- What are the switching characteristics of the HMC346AMS8GE?
The switching characteristics include tRISE and tFALL times of 2 to 8 ns, and tON and tOFF times of 2 to 8 ns.
