HMC8410 and HMC1119: Wideband Amplification and Attenuation for RF Front Ends

Wideband RF systems require both low-noise amplification and accurate signal-level control. The Analog Devices HMC8410 and HMC1119 address these two important functions in radar, communications and test equipment.

The HMC8410 provides wideband low-noise gain, while the HMC1119 provides digitally controlled attenuation. Depending on the system architecture, they can be used in separate signal chains or combined within a programmable RF front end.

HMC8410 Wideband Low-Noise Amplifier

The HMC8410 is a GaAs pHEMT MMIC low-noise amplifier operating from 10 MHz to 10 GHz.

It provides approximately 19.5 dB typical gain, a typical noise figure of 1.1 dB and a typical output IP3 of 33 dBm. The device operates from a 5 V supply and requires approximately 65 mA.

Its wide frequency coverage makes it suitable for systems that must operate across several communication, radar or instrumentation bands.

Typical applications include:

·Radar receivers

·Electronic warfare and surveillance

·Military communication systems

·Signal generators

·Spectrum and vector network analyzers

·Broadband test equipment

·General-purpose RF receiver front ends

The primary ordering part numbers are HMC8410LP2FE and HMC8410LP2FETR.

HMC1119 Digital RF Attenuator

The HMC1119 is a 7-bit digital attenuator covering 0.1 GHz to 6 GHz.

It provides attenuation adjustment in 0.25 dB steps, with a total programmable range of up to approximately 31.75 dB. Serial and parallel control interfaces allow the attenuation level to be changed by a microcontroller, FPGA or automated test system.

The HMC1119 also offers high linearity, fast RF settling and internally matched 50-ohm RF ports.

Typical applications include:

·Automatic gain control

·RF power calibration

·Cellular infrastructure

·Microwave radios

·VSAT terminals

·Test and measurement equipment

·Programmable signal paths

·IF and RF receiver designs

The main ordering part numbers are HMC1119LP4ME and HMC1119LP4METR.

Using the Devices in an RF Signal Chain

In a broadband receiver, the HMC8410 can be used near the input to improve sensitivity and establish the RF gain. A digital attenuator such as the HMC1119 can then provide programmable gain control, calibration or protection for later stages.

The optimum order depends on the required noise figure, maximum input level and linearity.

Placing the LNA first generally improves receiver noise performance. Placing attenuation before the amplifier can provide additional protection when strong input signals are expected.

Designers should evaluate:

·Maximum input power

·Required system noise figure

·Gain and attenuation range

·Frequency coverage

·Linearity and compression

·Control interface

·Thermal and power requirements

HMC8410 and HMC1119 Supply Support

DataStorageIC supports sourcing for HMC8410LP2FE, HMC8410LP2FETR, HMC1119LP4ME and HMC1119LP4METR.

We can assist with stock checks, sample quantities, production requirements and consolidated BOM sourcing. Customers should provide the complete manufacturer part number and required packaging when submitting an RFQ.

All availability, pricing and delivery information is subject to confirmation.