Data Sheet HMC903LP3E
Rev. H | Page 9 of 13
THEORY OF OPERATION
The HMC903LP3E is a gallium arsenide (GaAs), monolithic
microwave integrated circuit (MMIC), pseudomorphic (pHEMT),
low noise amplifier. The HMC903LP3E amplifier uses two gain
stages in series, and the basic schematic of the amplifier is shown in
Figure 21, which forms a low noise amplifier operating from 6 GHz
to 17 GHz with excellent noise figure performance.
V
DD1
V
GG1
V
DD2
V
GG2
RFIN RFOUT
14479-021
Figure 21. Basic Schematic of the Amplifier
The HMC903LP3E has single-ended input and output ports
whose impedances are nominally equal to 50 Ω over the 6 GHz
to 17 GHz frequency range. Consequently, it can directly insert
into a 50 Ω system with no required impedance matching
circuitry, which also means that multiple HMC903LP3E
amplifiers can be cascaded back to back without the need for
external matching circuitry.
The input and output impedances are sufficiently stable vs.
variations in temperature and supply voltage that no impedance
matching compensation is required.
Note that it is critical to supply very low inductance ground
connections to the GND pins and to the package base exposed
pad to ensure stable operation. To achieve optimal performance
from the HMC903LP3E and to prevent damage to the device, do
not exceed the absolute maximum ratings.