HMC270A - GaAs MMIC SPDT Switch DC-8GHz | Analog Devices
MPN: HMC270A ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $12.5 | $12.50 |
| 10 | $11.25 | $112.50 |
| 100 | $10 | $1,000.00 |
| 500 | $9 | $4,500.00 |
| 1,000 | $8.1 | $8,100.00 |
HMC270A Overview
An SPDT switch is a fundamental RF component that routes a common input to one of two outputs (or vice versa), enabling signal selection, T/R switching, and test instrumentation. In a non-reflective design, the unused port is terminated internally, providing a matched 50-ohm impedance at all ports, which minimizes reflections and improves system performance. This switch is part of the broader category of RF switches, which are essential in wireless communication, radar, and test equipment.
Key features of the HMC270A include its wide frequency range from DC to 8 GHz, high isolation, and non-reflective operation. The device operates with a single negative supply voltage of -5 V, simplifying bias circuitry. The MSOP package is compact and suitable for high-density PCB layouts, and the grounded base provides good thermal and electrical performance.
Technically, the HMC270A is fabricated using GaAs MMIC technology, which offers low insertion loss and high linearity at microwave frequencies. The switch is designed for 50-ohm systems and provides a typical insertion loss of dB and a return loss of dB. The switching speed is ns, enabling fast signal routing.
Typical applications include test and measurement instrumentation, radar systems, communication systems, and military electronics. The wide bandwidth and high isolation make it ideal for signal routing in broadband systems.
When designing with the HMC270A, ensure proper decoupling on the control lines and provide a clean -5 V supply. The RF ports should be matched to 50 ohms, and the ground pad should be soldered to a low-inductance ground plane for optimal performance.
Drop-in alternatives for HMC270A — same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
Variants in this series
Same-series models that are drop-in compatible with HMC270A (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Control Voltage, Isolation, Package, Type.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
HMC270AMS8GE
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$7.9 / Unit
View Datasheet →HMC270
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
HMC284AMS8GE
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
HMC349AMS8GE
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
HMC270A Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Type | SPDT Switch |
| Frequency Range | DC to 8 GHz |
| Isolation | 70 dB to 35 dB |
| Control Voltage | -5 V |
| Package | 8-lead MSOP |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Technology | GaAs MMIC |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| REACH Status | Compliant |
HMC270A Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RFC — Common RF port |
| Pin 2 | GND — Ground |
| Pin 3 | RF1 — RF port 1 |
| Pin 4 | GND — Ground |
| Pin 5 | CTL — Control voltage input |
| Pin 6 | GND — Ground |
| Pin 7 | RF2 — RF port 2 |
| Pin 8 | GND — Ground |
Typical Applications
HMC270A is suitable for 6 applications: Test and Measurement, Radar Systems, Communication Systems, Military Electronics, Wireless Infrastructure, Broadband RF Front-Ends.
Test and Measurement
The HMC270A is ideal for test and measurement equipment such as signal generators and network analyzers, where broadband signal routing with high isolation is required. Its DC to 8 GHz frequency range covers many RF test applications, and the non-reflective design ensures accurate measurements by minimizing reflections. The -5 V control voltage is compatible with common test equipment bias supplies.
Recommended
Radar Systems
In radar systems, the HMC270A can be used for T/R switching, routing signals between transmit and receive paths. Its high isolation (70 dB at low frequencies) prevents leakage between the high-power transmit signal and sensitive receiver, protecting the receiver from damage. The wide bandwidth supports various radar frequency bands up to 8 GHz.
Recommended
Communication Systems
The HMC270A is suitable for communication systems, including base stations and satellite communications, where signal routing and switching are needed. Its low insertion loss and high isolation ensure minimal signal degradation. The compact MSOP package is ideal for space-constrained designs.
Recommended
Military Electronics
The HMC270A is used in military electronics for electronic warfare, radar, and communication systems. Its robust GaAs MMIC technology provides reliable performance in harsh environments. The wide frequency range and high isolation make it suitable for various defense applications.
Recommended
Wireless Infrastructure
In wireless infrastructure, the HMC270A can be used for antenna switching, diversity, and signal routing. Its DC to 8 GHz bandwidth covers cellular and Wi-Fi frequencies. The non-reflective design ensures good impedance matching, reducing signal reflections and improving system efficiency.
Recommended
Broadband RF Front-Ends
The HMC270A is used in broadband RF front-ends for software-defined radios and wideband receivers. Its wide frequency range and high isolation allow flexible signal routing. The -5 V control voltage is compatible with many RF front-end designs.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for HMC270A — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | HMC270AMS8GE | HMC270 | HMC284AMS8GE | HMC349AMS8GE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 8-lead MSOP | 8-lead MSOP | 8-lead MSOP | 8-lead MSOP | 8-lead MSOP |
| Brand | Analog Devices | Analog Devices | Analog Devices | Analog Devices | Analog Devices |
Key Differentiators
- Wide frequency range DC to 8 GHz (vs HMC349AMS8GE)
- High isolation up to 70 dB (vs HMC284AMS8GE)
- Non-reflective design (vs HMC349AMS8GE)
Design Notes
Ensure the ground pad of the MSOP package is soldered to a low-inductance ground plane. Use multiple vias to connect the ground pad to the ground plane to minimize parasitic inductance and ensure good RF grounding.
Provide a clean -5 V supply for the control voltage. Use a low-dropout regulator or a dedicated negative supply with adequate decoupling capacitors (e.g., 100 nF and 10 uF) close to the CTL pin to prevent noise from affecting switch performance.
Keep RF traces as short as possible and maintain 50-ohm impedance. Use coplanar waveguide or microstrip with proper ground spacing. Avoid sharp bends and ensure adequate spacing between RF lines to prevent coupling.
Compliance Information
RoHS and REACH compliance per Analog Devices product page. Not AEC-Q100 qualified.
