Overview
The HMC526 is a compact GaAs MMIC (Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuit) I/Q mixer designed by Analog Devices Inc., which was originally developed by Hittite Microwave Corporation. This mixer can be used as either an Image Reject Mixer (IRM) or a Single Sideband Upconverter. It utilizes two standard double balanced mixer cells and a 90-degree hybrid, fabricated in a GaAs MESFET process. This design makes it a smaller and more efficient alternative to traditional hybrid style Image Reject Mixers and Single Sideband Upconverter assemblies.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Min. | Typ. | Max. | Units |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Frequency Range, RF/LO | 6 - 10 | 7 - 8.5 | GHz | |
| Frequency Range, IF | DC - 3.5 | DC - 3.5 | GHz | |
| Conversion Loss (As IRM) | 7.5 | 10 | 9.5 | dB |
| Image Rejection | 20 | 30 | 40 | dB |
| 1 dB Compression (Input) | +19 | +20 | dBm | |
| LO to RF Isolation | 35 | 45 | 50 | dB |
| LO to IF Isolation | 15 | 20 | 22 | dB |
| IP3 (Input) | +25 | +30 | dBm | |
| Amplitude Balance | 0.5 | 0.2 | dB | |
| Phase Balance | 5 | 5 | Deg |
Key Features
- Compact design, ideal for space-constrained applications.
- Utilizes two standard double balanced mixer cells and a 90-degree hybrid.
- Fabricated in a GaAs MESFET process.
- Wide IF bandwidth: DC - 3.5 GHz.
- High image rejection: up to 40 dB.
- High LO to RF isolation: up to 50 dB.
- High input IP3: +28 dBm.
- Available in a 24-lead 4x4mm SMT package (for HMC526LC4 version).
Applications
- Point-to-Point and Point-to-Multi-Point Radios.
- VSAT (Very Small Aperture Terminal) systems.
- Test Equipment and Sensors.
- Military End-Use applications.
Q & A
- What is the frequency range of the HMC526 for RF/LO signals?
The frequency range for RF/LO signals is 6 - 10 GHz, with a typical range of 7 - 8.5 GHz.
- What is the IF frequency range of the HMC526?
The IF frequency range is DC - 3.5 GHz.
- What is the conversion loss of the HMC526 when used as an Image Reject Mixer?
The conversion loss is typically 10 dB, with a range of 7.5 to 9.5 dB.
- What is the image rejection capability of the HMC526?
The image rejection is up to 40 dB, with a typical value of 30 dB.
- What is the LO to RF isolation of the HMC526?
The LO to RF isolation is up to 50 dB, with a typical value of 45 dB.
- What is the input IP3 of the HMC526?
The input IP3 is typically +30 dBm, with a minimum of +25 dBm.
- What type of package is available for the HMC526LC4 version?
The HMC526LC4 is available in a 24-lead 4x4mm SMT package.
- What are the typical applications of the HMC526?
Typical applications include Point-to-Point and Point-to-Multi-Point Radios, VSAT systems, Test Equipment, and Military End-Use applications.
- How should the IF port be handled if operation to DC is required?
If operation to DC is required, the IF port must not source/sink more than 3mA of current to avoid die non-function or failure.
- What is the significance of the 90-degree hybrid in the HMC526?
The 90-degree hybrid is crucial for producing the quadrature signals necessary for I/Q mixing and image rejection.
