Overview
The HMC980LP4E is an active bias controller designed by Analog Devices Inc. This component is specifically engineered to adjust the gate voltage of an external amplifier to maintain a constant bias current. It provides a comprehensive biasing solution for both enhancement and depletion type amplifiers operating in the Class-A domain. The controller ensures safe power-on/off, disable/enable, and automatic supply sequencing, protecting the external amplifier during these operations. It achieves high bias stability despite variations in supply, temperature, and process, eliminating the need for calibration procedures that are typically required to prevent RF performance degradation.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Rating/Description |
|---|---|
| Supply Voltage (VDD) | 5 V to 16.5 V |
| Drain Voltage (VDRAIN) | 5 V to 16.5 V |
| Drain Current (IDRAIN) | Up to 1.6 A |
| Package Type | RoHS-compliant 4x4 mm QFN leadless package with an exposed backside pad |
| Gate Current (IGATE) | -4 mA to +4 mA |
| Internal Negative Voltage Generation | Optional, can be disabled |
| Power-Up and Power-Down Sequencing | Integrated controller for safe sequencing |
| Over/Under Current Alarm | With built-in hysteresis |
| TRIGOUT Output | For daisy chain operation |
Key Features
- Automatic gate voltage adjustment without calibration
- Bias both enhancement and depletion type devices
- Adjustable drain current up to 1.6 A
- Sink or source gate current
- Optional internal negative voltage generation
- Fast enable/disable functionality
- TRIGOUT output for daisy chain operation
- Power-up and power-down sequencing
- Over/under current alarm with built-in hysteresis
Applications
- Microwave Radio & VSAT
- Military & Space
- Test Instrumentation
- Fiber Optic Modulator Driver Biasing
- CATV Laser Driver Biasing
- Cellular Base Station
- Wireless Infrastructure Equipment
Q & A
- What does the HMC980LP4E adjust to maintain a constant bias current?
The gate voltage of an external amplifier.
- What is the power on/off mechanism of the HMC980LP4E?
Integrated controller for safe power-on/off and disable/enable of the external amplifier.
- What is the range of drain currents supported by the HMC980LP4E?
Up to 1.6 A.
- What does the HMC980LP4E achieve in terms of bias stability?
High bias stability despite supply, temperature, and process fluctuations.
- In what package is the HMC980LP4E housed?
RoHS-compliant 4x4 mm QFN leadless package with an exposed backside pad.
- Can the HMC980LP4E be used for both enhancement and depletion type amplifiers?
Yes, it can bias both enhancement and depletion type devices.
- Does the HMC980LP4E have an internal negative voltage generator?
Yes, it has an optional internal negative voltage generator that can be disabled if an external negative supply is available.
- What is the purpose of the TRIGOUT output in the HMC980LP4E?
For daisy chain operation.
- Does the HMC980LP4E have over/under current alarm functionality?
Yes, with built-in hysteresis.
- What are some of the key applications of the HMC980LP4E?
Microwave radio, VSAT, military and space, test instrumentation, fiber optic modulator driver biasing, CATV laser driver biasing, cellular base station, and wireless infrastructure equipment.
