ADI Hittite Frequency Multiplier Selection Guide | HMC Models
ADI and legacy Hittite frequency multipliers are used to generate microwave and millimeter-wave signals from lower-frequency oscillators, PLL synthesizers and local oscillator sources. Available options include passive frequency doublers, active ×2 multipliers, high-ratio ×16 multipliers, bare dies and surface-mount packages.
The correct part cannot be selected from output frequency alone. Engineers must also check the available input frequency, drive level, output power, additive phase noise, unwanted harmonic suppression, supply requirements, package format and product lifecycle.
ADI Hittite Frequency Multiplier Model Comparison
| Model | Type | Multiplier | Input Range | Output Range | Typical Output | Package | Lifecycle |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HMC1096LP3E | Active | ×2 | 1.9–2.8GHz | 3.8–5.6GHz | +12dBm | 3 × 3mm QFN | Recommended for New Designs |
| HMC445LP4E | Active | ×16 | Approx. 0.619–0.700GHz | 9.9–11.2GHz | +7dBm | 4 × 4mm QFN | Production |
| HMC561 / HMC561-SX | Active | ×2 | 4–10.5GHz | 8–21GHz | +17dBm | Bare Die | Production |
| HMC814 / HMC814-SX | Active | ×2 | Approx. 6.5–12.3GHz | 13–24.6GHz | +17dBm | Bare Die | Production |
| HMC576 / HMC576-SX | Active | ×2 | 9–14.5GHz | 18–29GHz | +17dBm | Bare Die | Production |
| HMC-XDB112 | Passive | ×2 | 10–15GHz | 20–30GHz | 13dB Conversion Loss | Bare Die | Recommended for New Designs |
| HMC578 / HMC578-SX | Active | ×2 | Approx. 12–16.5GHz | 24–33GHz | +17dBm | Bare Die | Production |
| HMC578LC3B | Active | ×2 | Approx. 12–16.5GHz | 24–33GHz | +15dBm | 3 × 3mm LCC | Production |
| HMC205 | Passive | ×2 | 6–12GHz | 12–24GHz | 12–17dB Conversion Loss | Bare Die | Obsolete |
Typical Applications
Point-to-Point and VSAT Radio
Frequency multipliers generate microwave LO signals for upconverters, downconverters and mixer chains used in point-to-point radio and satellite terminals.
Radar and Electronic Warfare
Low additive phase noise and controlled unwanted-output suppression are important in coherent radar, electronic warfare receivers and frequency-agile signal sources.
Test and Measurement
Multipliers extend the range of signal generators, synthesizers and test sources into higher microwave bands without requiring a separate oscillator for every output band.
Clock Generation
Selected HMC multipliers support high-frequency clock-generation applications, including SONET OC-192 and SDH STM-64 equipment.
Military and Space Modules
Bare-die versions can be integrated into compact hybrid microwave circuits. Required screening, qualification, traceability and radiation performance must be specified separately for each program.
FAQ
What is the main difference between HMC561, HMC576 and HMC578?
All three are GaAs pHEMT ×2 active multiplier dies. HMC561 covers 8–21GHz output, HMC576 covers 18–29GHz and HMC578 covers 24–33GHz. Select them according to the complete required output band and available input frequency.
Is HMC445LP4E a replacement for an ×2 multiplier?
Normally no. HMC445LP4E uses ×16 multiplication and accepts a much lower input frequency. Replacing a ×2 device would require a different source frequency and redesign of the LO chain.
Can HMC814 directly replace HMC205?
No universal drop-in replacement should be assumed. HMC205 is passive and requires no bias, while HMC814 is an active +5V multiplier. The bias circuit, pad layout, output power and filtering must be redesigned and verified.
Does a frequency multiplier improve phase noise?
No. Frequency multiplication increases the input source phase noise by 20 log₁₀(N), and the multiplier adds its own residual noise. A low-additive-noise multiplier helps limit further degradation but does not improve the original source phase noise.
Stock and RFQ
DataStorageIC supports quotations for selected ADI and legacy Hittite frequency multipliers, including HMC205, HMC445LP4E, HMC561, HMC576, HMC578 and related ordering variants.
Stock quantity, lifecycle, date code, packaging format and lead time are confirmed at the time of quotation. Submit the required output frequency, available input frequency, multiplication factor, package format and quantity through the RFQ form for model selection and current pricing.
