VCO Modules Exhibit 95-dBc/Hz Phase Noise

March 15, 2007

To satisfy test and measurement, military, microwave-radio, and other applications from 4 to 12.5 GHz, three wideband voltage-controlled-oscillator (VCO) modules have been spawned. The HMCC028, HMC-C029, and HMCC030 modules offer output frequency coverage from 4 to 8 GHz, 5 to 10 GHz, and 8 to 12.5 GHz, respectively. The devices exhibit SSB phase-noise performance as low as –95 dBc/Hz at 100-kHz offset. Output power is as high as +21 dBm. Thanks to internal voltage regulation, the VCO modules can operate from a single supply between +8 and +15 VDC while consuming less than 200 mA of current. The single-ended RF outputs are matched to 50 Ω. The Vtune ports accept analog tuning voltages from 0 to +13 VDC. In addition, an integrated buffer amplifier provides increased output power and low frequency pulling characteristics. The modules utilize InGaP GaAs HBT technology. P&A: stock.

Hittite Microwave Corp., 20 Alpha Rd., Chelmsford, MA 01824; (978) 2503343, FAX: (978) 250-3373, Internet: www.hittite.com

About the Author

Nancy Friedrich

RF Product Marketing Manager for Aerospace Defense, Keysight Technologies

Nancy Friedrich is RF Product Marketing Manager for Aerospace Defense at Keysight Technologies. Nancy Friedrich started a career in engineering media about two decades ago with a stint editing copy and writing news for Electronic Design. A few years later, she began writing full time as technology editor at Wireless Systems Design. In 2005, Nancy was named editor-in-chief of Microwaves & RF, a position she held (along with other positions as group content head) until 2018. Nancy then moved to a position at UBM, where she was editor-in-chief of Design News and content director for tradeshows including DesignCon, ESC, and the Smart Manufacturing shows.