HMC980LP4E is a monolithic quad-channel voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) manufactured by Analog Devices (ADI)

The HMC980LP4E is a high-performance, monolithic quad-channel voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) manufactured by Analog Devices (ADI), specifically designed for high-frequency RF and microwave applications. It operates in the ultra-broad frequency range of 1.5 GHz to 6.0 GHz, delivering exceptional phase noise performance, fast frequency tuning, and channel-to-channel isolation—making it a critical component in systems requiring precise, multi-channel RF signal generation.

As a quad-channel VCO, the HMC980LP4E's primary role is to generate four independent, tunable RF/microwave signals whose frequencies are controlled by an external DC tuning voltage.

1. Ultra-Broad Tuning Range
   • Covers a continuous frequency range of 1.5 GHz to 6.0 GHz across all four channels, eliminating the need for multiple discrete VCOs in multi-band systems
   • Each channel offers fine-tuning control via an external tuning voltage (typically 0 V to 5 V), enabling precise adjustment of the output frequency
2. Quad-Channel Independent Operation
   • Integrates four fully independent VCO channels in a single, compact package (4 mm × 4 mm LFCSP)
   • Features excellent channel-to-channel isolation (typically >25 dB at 3 GHz), minimizing cross-talk between channels
3. Low Phase Noise & High Frequency Stability
   • Delivers industry-leading phase noise performance: -108 dBc/Hz at 10 kHz offset (for a 3 GHz carrier frequency) and -138 dBc/Hz at 1 MHz offset
   • Maintains stable frequency output across variations in supply voltage, temperature, and load impedance
4. Fast Tuning Speed
   • Offers rapid frequency tuning response (typically <1 µs settling time for small frequency steps)
5. Robust Power Supply & Thermal Performance
   • Operates from a single +5 V DC supply, with a typical supply current of 45 mA per channel
   • Designed to withstand industrial temperature ranges (-40°C to +85°C)
   • Includes built-in supply voltage filtering to suppress power-supply noise

The HMC980LP4E's combination of quad-channel capability, broad frequency coverage, and low phase noise makes it ideal for high-frequency RF/microwave systems across multiple industries.

1. Wireless Communications Infrastructure
   • 5G NR (New Radio) Base Stations: Used in massive MIMO (mMIMO) base stations to generate independent RF carrier signals
   • Microwave Backhaul Systems: Provides tunable local oscillator (LO) signals for point-to-point microwave links
2. Radar & Electronic Warfare (EW)
   • Automotive Radar: Supports advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control
   • Electronic Warfare (EW) Systems: Used in military EW applications to generate agile, multi-channel RF signals
3. Test & Measurement Equipment
   • RF Signal Generators: Integrated into benchtop or portable signal generators to provide multi-channel, high-precision RF outputs
   • Spectrum Analyzers & Network Analyzers: Serves as a tunable local oscillator (LO) in these instruments
4. Aerospace & Defense (A&D)
   • Satellite Communications (SatCom): Used in ground-based SatCom terminals or airborne communication systems
   • Avionics Systems: Provides stable RF references for aircraft navigation or communication systems
5. Industrial & Scientific Instruments
   • Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs): Supports high-frequency industrial WSNs for factory automation
   • Medical Imaging Equipment: Used in specialized medical devices to generate precise RF signals for tissue analysis

• Space & Cost Savings: Integrating four VCOs into a single 4 mm × 4 mm package reduces PCB area and component count
• Simplified System Architecture: Eliminates the need for complex frequency-multiplying or filtering circuits
• Scalability: The quad-channel design supports easy scaling of multi-channel systems