GaAs up-converters fit 38- , 42-GHz radios

The HMC6787ALC5A and the HMC6146BLC5A GaAs MMIC variable gain up-converters form a cost-effective transmitter solution for high-capacity QAM microwave radios. The HMC6787ALC5A operates from 37 to 40 GHz with a small-signal conversion gain of 10 dB, 17-dBc sideband rejection, and 13 dB of gain control.

The HMC6146BLC5A handles 40 to 44 GHz with a small-signal conversion gain of 12 dB, a 25 dBc sideband rejection, and 17 dB of gain control. They both use a VGA preceded by an I/Q mixer, where the LO is driven by a x2 multiplier. An external 90º hybrid is needed to select the required sideband. Both feature high-output IP3 of +27 dBm, 2LO/RF isolation of 15 dB, and a 5 x 5-mm chip package.