MMIC Amplifiers PRODUCT GUIDE

Product Line Overview

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 CONTENTS INTRODUCTION
MMIC AMPLIFIERS

MINI-CIRCUITS
Over 170 Models from DC to 26.5 GHz

3 INTRODUCTION 17 SEMICONDUCTOR MATERIALS With over 170 different MMIC amplifier models covering frequency
& PROCESS TECHNOLOGIES
4 MMIC AMPLIFIER FAMILIES bands from DC to 26.5 GHz, chances are Mini-Circuits has your
5 SELECTED APPLICATIONS 18-19 CIRCUIT ARCHITECTURES application covered. Utilizing GaAs semiconductor materials and PHEMT
20 QUALITY AND RELIABILITY and InGaP HBT process technologies, our designs offer a very wide
6 LOW NOISE
variety of performance characteristics to meet your needs including
PGA, PMA, PSA 21 STRINGENT QUALIFICATION
low noise, flat gain, ultra-wideband, digital variable gain, and more. With
7 LOW NOISE BYPASS
TSS 22 ADVANCED PACKAGING TECHNOLOGY packages as small as 0.08 x 0.05", our amplifiers can satisfy extremely
8 LOW NOISE TRANSISTOR tight space requirements, and our ultra-reliable, hermetically sealed
23 COMPANION PRODUCTS AND
SAV, TAV OTHER RESOURCES ceramic designs stand up to the most extreme operating conditions.
9 LOW NOISE MODULES
RAMP, TAMP, YSF 24 MODEL SEARCH AND This guide will provide you with a complete overview of our MMIC
WORLD WIDE TECH SUPPORT amplifier product line and also highlight some of the key differences
10 D
 UAL MATCHED
MERA, MGVA, MPGA, PHA-11/22 in design approach between Mini-Circuits MMIC amplifiers and typical
11 MEDIUM POWER products on the market. As one of the few suppliers in the industry
GVA, MGVA-91/92+ who own and manage their own packaging facilities,
12 WIDEBAND MICROWAVE Mini-Circuits is able to provide the highest quality, most consistent,
GVA, AVA, AVM
and most reliable products to our customers.
13 WIDEBAND FIXED CURRENT
ERA, LEE, GALI From here, we invite you to visit minicircuits.com and use Yoni2, our
14 HI-REL CERAMIC patented search engine that lets you search our entire engineering
CMA
database by performance criteria to find the models that meet your
15 HIGH DYNAMIC RANGE
HXG, PHA, LHA, HELA
requirements. You’ll also find complete specs for individual models,
free samples of selected products, high accuracy simulation models,
16 DIGITAL VARIABLE GAIN
DVGA and everything you need to make an informed decision about the
right amplifier for your needs.

We’re always here to support you. Get in touch with our applications
team to discuss any questions or special requirements you might have.
We hope this product guide provides a helpful reference for your work,
Avago ATF Series amplifiers is a trademark of Avago Technologies. and we thank you for your interest in Mini-Circuits MMIC amplifiers!
X-Parameters is a registered trademark of Agilent Technologies. All other trademarks cited
in this publication are the property of their respective owners. Neither Mini-Circuits nor
Mini-Circuits MMIC amplifiers are affiliated with or endorsed or sponsored by the owners
of the above referenced trademarks. Mini-Circuits and the Mini-Circuits logo are registered
trademarks of Scientific Components Corporation. Sincerely
© Mini-Circuits 2015. All rights reserved.

Harvey Kaylie
Mini-Circuits CEO and Founder
Contact: Mini-Circuits Applications
Email: [email protected]

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2 3
 MMIC AMPLIFIER FAMILIES SELECTED APPLICATIONS
MMIC AMPLIFIERS
▶ Point to Point Radio
▶ SATCOM
▶ Cellular
▶ Portable Wireless
▶ PCS
▶ LTE
▶ WiMAX
Low Noise
40 to 6000 MHz
▶ GPS
Model Series: PGA, PMA, PSA ▶ Wireless Base Station Systems
Low Noise Bypass ▶ UHF/VHF
500 to 5000 MHz
Model Series: TSS
▶ CATV
Wideband Microwave ▶ Multi-Band Receivers
Low Noise Transistor DC to 26.5 GHz
450 to 6000 MHz Model Series: GVA, AVA, AVM ▶ Test and Measurement
Model Series: SAV, TAV
Wideband Fixed Current
▶ Instrumentation
Low Noise Modules DC to 8000 MHz ▶ Military EW
50 to 3800 MHz Model Series: ERA, LEE, GALI
Model Series: RAMP, TAMP, YSF ▶ Avionics Systems
Hi-Rel Ceramic
Dual Matched 10 to 6000 MHz
▶ Radar
for Push-Pull Applications Model Series: CMA ▶ Isolation Amplifiers
DC to 4000 MHz
Model Series: MERA, MGVA, High Dynamic Range ▶ Balanced Amplifiers
MPGA, PHA-11/22 5 to 6000 MHz
Model Series: HXG, PHA, LHA, HELA
▶ Optical Networks
Medium Power ▶ And More!
869 to 2170 MHz Digital Variable Gain
Model Series: GVA 50 to 3000 MHz
Model Series: DVGA

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4 5
 LOW NOISE LOW NOISE BYPASS
MMIC AMPLIFIERS
40 to 6000 MHz

Overview
PGA/PMA/PSA
500 to 5000 MHz

Overview
TSS

Ranging from 40 to 6000 MHz, Mini-Circuits’ low noise MMIC amplifier model families Mini-Circuits’ low noise bypass amplifier TSS-53LNB+ features an internal switchable
provide noise figures as low as 0.38 dB, making them ideal for sensitive receiver applications. bypass circuit to protect the LNA in the presence of high power signals, minimize noise
Our selection provides various combinations of gain, P1dB, IP3, power consumption and distortion and extend the usable dynamic range up to +48 dBm in bypass mode.
size to meet a wide range of system requirements. It provides very flat gain from 500 MHz to 5 GHz and comes housed in a tiny 3x3mm
MCLP package with very low operating power requirements.

Model Family Model Family Model Family Model Family

PGA PMA PSA TSS

Characterization Test Circuit

0.18 x 0.17 x 0.06" 3 x 3 x 0.89 mm 0.05 x 0.09 x 0.04" 3 x 3 x 0.89 mm

Voltage, 3 – 5V Voltage, 3 – 5V Voltage, 3 – 5V Voltage, 5V, Current, 82mA
Current, 60 – 116mA Current, 20 – 158mA Current, 20 – 80mA ( In Thru Mode )
50 & 75Ω Internal Bypass Switch
for Large Signals
Features Features Features Features
• 40-6000 MHz • 50-6000 MHz • 50-6000 MHz • 500 – 5000 MHz
• Gain • Gain up to 39 dB • Gain up to 20 dB
up to 26.5 dB • Gain up to 22.8 dB
• P1dB up to +23.2 dBm • P1dB up to +22.6 dBm • P1dB up to +22 dBm
• ±0.7dB flatness over
• IP3 up to +45 dBm • IP3 up to +40 dBm • IP3 up to +36.8 dBm 700-2100 MHz
• NF as low as 0.5 dB • NF as low as 0.38 dB • NF as low as 0.75 dB • P1dB up to +21 dBm See data sheet for details.
• F min as low as 0.25 dB* • +34 dBm IP3 in thru mode

• +48 dBm IP3 in bypass mode

Advantages Advantages Advantages
• NF as low as 1.2 dB
PGA models are ideal for Combining low noise and Mini-Circuits’ PSA-series
use in driver amplifiers for high IP3, PMA-series amplifiers amplifiers are designed
complex waveform provide the advantages of specifically for applications Advantages
up-converter paths, drivers both sensitivity and two-tone which require linear
It’s outstanding combination of
in linearized transit systems, spur-free dynamic range, along performance, particularly
performance characteristics makes
and secondary amplifiers in with on-chip active bias circuits, wideband, advanced digital
the TSS-53LNB+ a candidate
ultra-high dynamic range making them ideal for use in communications systems
for many high-performance
receivers. 75Ω Models cover low noise Receiver Front End, such as LTE as well as critical
applications such as wireless base
primary CATV applications, among other applications. IF amplifier applications.
station receivers and test and
including GPON, MOCA,
measurement systems. In addition,
and DBS.
it’s flat gain over very wide frequency
range supports broadband and
multi-band usage, ideal for carrier
*Defined as minimum noise figure when amplifier load is optimized for the best complex aggregation in LTE-Advanced
match possible. Refer to Application Note AN60-040 on our website. ( LTE-A ) systems, for example.

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6 7
 LOW NOISE TRANSISTOR LOW NOISE MODULES
MMIC AMPLIFIERS
450 to 6000 MHz 50 Ω
Overview
To allow designers the flexibility to develop their own bias and matching circuits to meet
50 to 3800 MHz
Overview
To simplify circuit design and provide turnkey solutions for ensuring low system
their specific application requirements, Mini-Circuits offers a selection of tiny surface mount sensitivity in demanding applications, Mini-Circuits offers a variety of low noise
transistors with ultra-low noise, high IP3 and wide bandwidth to use in a variety of Low Noise amplifier modules with integrated bias, matching and stability circuits in a
Amplifier designs. Manufactured using PHEMT technology, these models operate on a single single package. These models achieve outstanding noise figure performance
positive supply voltage with a range of current consumption ratings. They’re available from with various combinations of gain, dynamic range and output power to meet
stock in both leaded and leadless packages for low cost. Covering frequencies from 450 your requirements for applications from 50 to 3800 MHz.
to 6000 MHz, they offer versatile solutions for many applications including cellular, telecom,
instrumentation and other wideband applications.
Model Family Model Family Model Family
Model Family Model Family
RAMP TAMP YSF
SAV TAV Simplified
Schematic

0.50 x 0.50 x 0.18" 0.59 x 0.39 x 0.12" 6 x 4.9 x 0.9 mm

0.09 x 0.09 x 0.04" 3 x 3 x 0.89 mm Voltage, 5V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 5V
Voltage, 3V Voltage, 3V Current, 118mA
Current, 70mA Current, 20 – 120mA
Current, 15 – 60mA Current, 15 – 60mA
Features Features Features
Features Features • 800 – 3800 MHz
• 50 – 3000 MHz • 400-3600 MHz
• 450 – 6000 MHz • 450 – 6000 MHz Recommended Application • Gain up to 22 dB • Gain up to 35 dB • Gain
 up to 20 dB
• Gain up to 23.2 dB • Gain up to 23.8 dB Active Bias Circuit • P1dB up to +16.5 dBm • P1dB up to +21.5 dBm • Ultra-flat
 gain
• P1dB up to +19.2 dBm • P1dB up to +19.1 dBm • IP3 up to +30 dBm • IP3 up to +36 dBm as flat as ±0.2 dB
• IP3 up to +33 dBm • IP3 up to +33 dBm • NF as low as 1.1 dB • NF as low as 0.55 dB • P1dB up to +20.5 dBm
• Ultra low NF as low as 0.5 dB • NF as low as 0.5 dB • IP3 up to +37 dBm
• F min as low as 0.14 dB • NF as low as 2.5 dB

Advantages Advantages Advantages Advantages Advantages

Mini-Circuits SAV-series low TAV-series models Mini-Circuits’ RAMP-33LN+ The TAMP-series of LNA modules With models providing
noise transistor amplifier come housed in a utilizes advanced PHEMT provides a variety of models gain up to 20 dB and
models come packaged in tiny leadless package technology to achieve low with different combinations as flat as ±0.2 dB, the
a tiny SOT-343 (SC-70) style with exposed metal noise and high IP3 over the of low noise, gain, IP3 and YSF family is ideal for
leaded package and may be pad on the bottom See data sheet for details. full bandwidth from 50 to 3000 output power to meet your any application where
used as a replacement for for superior MHz, supporting a wide vari- system requirements. They consistent performance
Avago ATF-series models a,b . heat dissipation. ety of applications requiring provide excellent input and across frequency
ADS models available. moderate output power and output matching without any is a critical requirement.
low distortion. 1.1 dB noise external elements and come Housed in a Mini-Circuits
figure enables low sensitivity housed in metal packages System in Package™
for receiver applications, while providing ruggedness and (MSiP), these models
* For band specific, drop-in modules, and as an alternative to designing circuits, please refer to Mini-Circuits +30 dBm IP3 performance can shielding. come with integrated
TAMP- and RAMP-series models which are based on SAV/TAV PHEMTs and include all DC blocking, bias, improve spurious free dynamic matching, bias, and DC
matching and stabilization circuitry, without the need for any external components. range. It comes housed in a blocking all in a single
a. Suitability for model replacement within a particular system must be determined by and is solely the responsibility rugged metal case providing 5x6mm case.
of the customer based on, among other things, electrical performance criteria, stimulus conditions, application, excellent shielding from
compatibility with other components and environmental conditions and stresses. nearby circuitry.
b. A
 vago ATF-series is used for identification and comparison purposes only.

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8 9
 DUAL MATCHED MEDIUM POWER
MMIC AMPLIFIERS
DC to 4000 MHz

Overview
869 to 2170 MHz

Overview
Mini-Circuits offers a broad selection of dual-matched MMIC amplifiers for use in balanced and For applications requiring high output power and high Power Added Efficiency (PAE), Mini-Circuits’
push-pull amplifier applications. These models include two well-matched dice in a single package GVA-91+ and GVA-92+ amplifiers are capable of delivering 1W and ½ W output power, respectively,
making them excellent solutions for suppression of unwanted second harmonics and to achieve and PAE up to 50%. These models employ matching circuits for targeted application bands.
very high dynamic range. With designs based on both InGaP HBT and PHEMT technologies, Mini-Circuits has also developed a design using two matched GVA-91+ and -92+ dice in balanced
our selection offers a variety of performance features for different needs. configuration enabling outstanding amplifier performance up to 1W over octave bands from 90
up to 4500 MHz and providing medium power capability for a range of wideband applications.

Model Family Model Family Model Family Model Family Model Family Model Family

MERA MGVA MPGA PHA-11/22 GVA-91/92+ MGVA-91/92+

6 x 4.9 x 0.9 mm 6 x 4.9 x 0.9 mm 6 x 4.9 x 0.9 mm 6 x 4.9 x 0.9 mm 0.18 x 0.17 x 0.06" 6 x 4.9 x 0.9 mm
Voltage, 4.8 – 4.9V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 5V
Current, 65 – 80mA Current, 69 – 82mA Current, 63mA Current, 146mA Current, 147mA Current, 290mA

Features Features Features Features Features Features

• DC - 4000 MHz • 40-3000 MHz • 40 - 3000 MHz • 50 - 3000 MHz • 869/2170 MHz • Balanced design
• Gain up to 25 dB • Gain up to 21.4 dB • Gain up to 14.4 dB • Gain up to 16 dB • Gain up to 21.2 dB • Octave bands, 90-4500 MHz
• P1dB up to +19 dBm • P1dB up to +19.6 dBm • ±0.5
 dB Flatness from • P1dB up to +22 dBm • P1dB up to +29.5 dBm • Gain up to 20 dB
• IP3 up to +35 dBm • IP3 up to +38 dBm 100 – 2000 MHz • IP3 up to + 41.5 dBm • P3dB up to +30.6 dBm • P1dB up to +28 dBm
• NF as low as 2.7 dB • NF as low as 3.6 dB • P1dB up to +21 dBm • High IP2, up to +78 dBm • IP3 up to +43.6 dBm • P3dB up to 1W
• IP3 up to + 37.8 dBm • NF as low as 1.9 dB • PAE up to 50% • IP3 up to +43 dBm
• NF as low as 1.9 dB

Advantages Advantages Advantages Advantages Advantages Advantages

Based on InGaP Utilizing InGaP Fabricated using Mini-Circuits’ PHA-11+ With high Power Added Utilizing two well
HBT technology, HBT technology, PHEMT technology, and PHA-22+ dual Efficiency, GVA power matched dice in
MERA-series amplifiers MGVA-series models MPGA amplifiers are matched amplifier amplifiers deliver high balanced configuration,
offer bandwidths as provide high dynamic an ideal choice for models are ideal for output power with low MGVA series models
wide as DC to 4000 range and good gain applications where low ultra-high dynamic DC power consumption. achieve output power
MHz with high gain, flatness over the 40 noise figure is a critical range applications They come housed in up to 1W over wideband
high dynamic range to 3000 MHz band. requirement. They offer and are usable in both an industry standard with excellent input and
and good gain flatness, They support 50 and excellent gain flatness, 50 and 75Ω systems SOT-89 package with output return loss through
supporting applications 75Ω applications and very high dynamic such as CATV, FTTH very good thermal use of 90˚ hybrids. They
from UHF/VHF including Satcom, range for applications and more. performance and offer high IP3 performance
to cellular and more. optical networks, including Satcom, excellent repeatability and come in a thermally
CATV and more. optical networks, base from lot to lot. efficient package for
station infrastructure high reliability.
and more.

Balanced Configuration
Balanced Configuration Push Push-Pull
Pull Configuration
Configuration

90˚ 90˚ 180˚ 180˚

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10 11
 WIDEBAND MICROWAVE WIDEBAND FIXED CURRENT
MMIC AMPLIFIERS
DC to 26.5 GHz

Overview
DC to 8000 MHz

Overview
Covering applications from DC up to 26.5 GHz, our selection of wideband fixed voltage MMIC To support systems where constant current is a requirement, Mini-Circuits offers over 60 fixed current
amplifiers covers an extremely wide range of applications from DC to 26.5 GHz. With a variety MMIC amplifier models off the shelf with wideband performance in a variety of case styles. Covering
of models offering different performance features including flat gain, high linearity, and output applications from DC to 8000 MHz with a range of performance characteristics to meet different
power up to 1/2W, chances are we have a model that meets your requirements. They all system needs, these models make excellent solutions for replacements in legacy systems and any
operate on a single +5V supply and come in packages as small as 3x3mm. design operating on fixed current power supply.

Model Family Model Family Model Family Model Family Model Family Model Family
GVA AVA AVM ERA LEE GALI

0.18 x 0.17 x 0.06" 3 x 3 x 0.89 mm 5 x 5 x 1 mm 0.06 x 0.18 dia." 3 x 3 x 0.89 mm 0.18 x 0.17 x 0.06"
Voltage, 5V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 3.2 – 5V Voltage, 3.5 – 4.9V Voltage, 3.3 – 5.8V
Current, 52 – 108mA Current, 131mA Current, 559mA Current, 35 – 70mA Current, 35 – 65mA Current, 16 – 100mA

Features Features Features Features Features Features

• DC – 12000 MHz •5 – 18 GHz • 13 – 26.5 GHz • DC-8000
• DC – 8000 MHz MHz • DC-8000 MHz
• Gain up to 24 dB • Gain up to 14.7 dB, • Gain up to 14 dB • Gain
• Gain up to 24.4 dB up to 20.8 dB • Gain up to 25.6 dB
• P1dB up to +20.5 dBm • P1dB up to +19 dBm • Excellent flatness, ± 1 dB • P1dB up to +17.3 dBm • P1dB up to +21.9 dBm
• P1dB up to +18.4 dBm
• IP3 up to +42 dBm • IP3 up to +27 dBm • P1dB up to +27 dBm • IP3 up to +33 dBm • IP3 up to +38 dBm
• IP3 up to +36.5 dBm
• NF as low as 3.7 dB • NF as low as 4.3 dB • IP3 up to +32.1 dBm • NF as low as 2.4 dB • NF as low as 2.4 dB
• NF as low as 2.2 dB
• Excellent isolation, 37 dB • NF as low as 7.5 dB
• Excellent directivity, 43 dB

Advantages Advantages Advantages Advantages Advantages Advantages

Mini-Circuits’ GVA-series High reverse isolation makes Model AVM-273-HPK+ Mini-Circuits’ ERA-series LEE-series amplifiers With 24 models offering a
amplifiers provide wideband the AVA-183A+ an ideal choice supports many applications amplifiers cover applications provide super-flat output variety of combinations of
performance* with excellent for buffering broadband circuits. from 13 to 26.5 GHz with from DC up to 8 GHz. power across wideband, gain, P1dB, noise figure,
gain flatness and high dynamic It is an ideal LO driver amplifier up to 0.5W RF output power. They are unconditionally making them versatile for a IP3 and very low DC current,
range, making them suitable and provides designers system Gain flatness of ±1.0 dB and 58 stable, transient protected wide variety of applications. these wideband gain blocks
candidates for wideband flexibility and margin when dB isolation make it an excellent and come enclosed in a The 3x3mm MCLP molded are designed into a SOT-89
applications such as advanced integrating cascaded RF wideband buffer amplifier in P2P Micro-X package with plastic package features package providing low
digital communications components. This model radios, military EW and radar, excellent thermal stability. an exposed metal pad thermal resistance, excellent
systems and LTE. integrates the entire matching DBS, VSAT and more! Voltage on the bottom allowing repeatability and high reliability.
network and the majority of sequencing and DC control excellent heat dissipation
the bias circuit inside the module (included) provides the and low inductance.
package, eliminating the need correct voltage sequence,
for complicated external circuits. simplifying circuit designs.

* GVA-91+ and GVA-92+ specified from 869 to 2170 MHz; application circuits for different bandwidths available.

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12 13
 HI-REL CERAMIC HIGH DYNAMIC RANGE
MMIC AMPLIFIERS
10 to 6000 MHz

Overview
5 to 6000 MHz

Overview
Mini-Circuits’ CMA-series ceramic MMIC amplifiers offer ultra-low noise, high IP3, high gain, Mini-Circuits’ high dynamic range amplifiers deliver industry-leading dynamic range with
and outstanding flatness in a tiny ( 3 x 3 x 1.14mm) ceramic, hermetically sealed package. OIP3 performance as high as +48 dBm. This translates into extremely linear performance in
Performance qualified to meet MIL requirements for gross leak, fine leak, thermal shock, multi-carrier and complex signal environments. Supporting both 50 and 75Ω systems with a
mechanical shock, vibration, acceleration, and HTOL, these amplifiers provide ultra-high range of supply voltages, these models provide outstanding combinations of intercept point
reliability in extreme operating environments. and power consumption for low cost compared to similar products on the market.

Model Family Test Description Test Method / Process Results Model Family Model Family Model Family Model Family

CMA Hermeticity MIL-STD-202 Method 112, PASS HXG PHA LHA HELA
(fine and gross leak) Cond. C & D

Acceleration MIL-STD-883 Method PASS

30K, Y1 Direction 2001, Cond. E

Vibration MIL-STD-202 Method PASS

10 – 2000 Hz sine, 204, Cond. D

0.12 x 0.12 x 0.05" 0.25 x 0.27 x 0.09" 0.18 x 0.17 x 0.06" 3 x 3 x 0.9mm 0.30 x 0.40 x 0.10"
Mechanical shock MIL-STD-202 Method 213 PASS
Voltage, 3 – 5V Cond. A Voltage, 5V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 12V
Current, 55 – 158mA Current, 144mA Current, 146mA Current, 146mA Current, 525mA
PIND MIL-STD-750 Method PASS 50 & 75Ω
ULTRA REL 20G’s @ 130 Hz 2052.2
®

Features Features Features Features

Temp Cycle MIL-STD-202 Method 107 PASS • 500 – 2400 MHz • 50 – 6000 MHz • 50 – 6000 MHz • 5 – 1000 MHz
55C/+125C, 1000 cycles
• Gain up to 15.3 dB • Gain up to 17.2 dB • Gain up to 16 dB • Gain up to 12 dB
Features
• P1dB up to +23 dBm • P1dB up to +22 dBm • P1dB up to +22.9 dBm • P1dB up to +30 dBm
• 10 – 6000 MHz Autoclave JESD22-A102C PASS
121C, RH 100%, • IP3 up to +46.5 dBm • IP3 up to +42 dBm • IP3 up to +40 dBm • IP3 up to +48 dBm
• Gain up to 31.8 dB
• NF as low as 2.2 dB • NF as low as 1.8 dB • NF as low as 1.8 dB • NF as low as 3.5 dB
• P1dB up to +23.3 dBm
HTOL MIL-STD-202 Method PASS
• IP3 up to +36.5 dBm 1000 hrs., 105C at rated 108, Cond. D
• NF as low as 0.5 dB Advantages Advantages Advantaes Advantages
Bend Test MIL-STD-202 Method 108, PASS HXG-series amplifiers Mini-Circuits PHA-series The LHA-1+ provides HELA-series amplifiers
1000 hrs., 105C at rated Cond. D provide the unique models deliver very high ultra-high dynamic range are excellent low-cost
Advantages
combination of very high IP3 across wide frequency with industry leading IP3 solutions for reducing
A variety of CMA models Resistance JESD22-B102 PASS
IP3 and surprisingly low range without the need performance and low noise intermodulation products
offers a range of performance to soldering heat,
3x reflow, 260C peak noise performance, for external matching over wideband, supporting in complex, multiple
attributes to meet your making them usable as components. Industry-leading a wide variety of applications. carrier environments
system requirements. Drop Test JESD22-B111 PASS output stage amplifiers IP3 performance combined This model comes housed such as CATV. Usable
Spanning frequencies from and also in receiver front with low power consumption in a 3 x 3mm MCLP package in both 50 and 75Ω
10 to 6000 MHz they support Adhesion Strength Push Test>10 lb PASS end circuitry. Mini-Circuits makes these amplifiers ideal with good heat dissipation systems, HELA amplifiers
popular application bands System in Package® for use in driver amplifiers and low parasitics. incorporate a pair of
including PCS, LTE, WiMAX, (MSiP) technology for complex waveform amplifiers to provide very
satellite IF, and more. CMA integrates the matching up-converter paths, drivers high IP3 performance,
amplifiers are bonded to a networks with the amplifier in linearized transmit systems, comparable to that of
multilayer LTCC substrate and in a single, tiny ceramic and secondary amplifiers feed-forward amplifiers,
then hermetically sealed, package, eliminating the in ultra-high dynamic but at significantly
resulting in low inductance, need for external matching range receivers. lower cost.
repeatable performance, and components.
excellent reliability.

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14 15
 DIGITAL VARIABLE GAIN SEMICONDUCTOR MATERIALS
MMIC AMPLIFIERS
50 to 3000 MHz

Overview
&PROCESS TECHNOLOGIES
Mini-Circuits’ DVGA-series digitally controlled variable gain amplifiers integrate an amplifier Overview of Semiconductor Materials: GaAs
with a digital step attenuator in a single, 5 x 5mm package. They provide gain as high as Material GaAs
30 dB and 31.5 dB gain control in 0.5 dB steps using 6-bit serial or parallel control interfaces.
Electron Mobility (cm2/Vs) 5,500 – 7,000
The step attenuators used in DVGA amplifiers are produced using a unique combination
Peak Drift Velocity (107 cm/s) 1.6 – 2.3
CMOS process on silicon, offering the performance of GaAs with the advantages of
Band Gap (eV) 1.4
conventional CMOS devices. They are immune to latch-up and provide ±0.1 dB attenuation
accuracy enabling very precise gain control. Frequency Range (GHz) >75
Gain Higher
Noise Figure Good
Model Family Production Maturity 6” Wafer
DVGA Multiple Configurations Available
Why GaAs?
• High electron mobility enables high frequencies and fast switching performance
• Intrinsic GaAs is semi-insulating, making it an ideal substrate for stripline and high Q passives
• Large band gap (1.4 eV) enables higher power operation
5 x 5 x 1 mm •R
 adiation hardness means GaAs is well accepted for both space and military applications
Voltage, 3-5V • Commercial availability in 6” wafer makes it suitable for mass production
Current, 71 – 159mA
•G
 aAs is widely accepted as the superior technology for the production
Features of high-frequency, high power and low noise products
• 50 - 3000 MHz
• Gain up to 29.5 dB
• 31.5 dB gain control
Overview of Process Technologies
(0.5 dB steps)
• P1dB up to +23.2 dBm GaAs PHEMT GaAs InGaP HBT
• IP3 up to +35.7 dBm 0.5/0.25./0.15µm 2 /1µm
• NF as low as 3.1 dB E-mode and D-mode

Advantages Products Products

Combining medium and high • Low noise amplifiers • High linearity gain block
gain with a wide range of gain • High linearity gain block • Power amplifiers <6 GHz
control makes DVGA models • Distributed amplifiers
ideal building blocks for any RF • mmWave power amplifiers
chain where level setting control
is required in a small space. Features Features
• High transition frequency (Ft) • High current gain
• Low noise up to mmWave • High power density
• E-Mode (single supply) • Single supply
• High linearity • Consistent product performance
• High power density • Proven technology for gain block and
• Great power and efficiency medium power amplifiers.
• Low standby current
• May operate as low as 1.2V

Mini-Circuits ®
ISO 9001 ISO 14001 AS 9100 www.minicircuits.com P.O. Box 350166, Brooklyn, NY 11235-0003 (718) 934-4500 [email protected]

16 17
 CIRCUIT ARCHITECTURES
MMIC AMPLIFIERS Our MMIC amplifier designs employ a range of different circuit topologies to
give our customers a wide variety of choices to meet their system requirements. Darlington
Whether the goal is to achieve wideband performance, high dynamic range, Features
ultra-low noise or other critical performance characteristics, the right circuit • High current gain (β)
architecture allows our design engineers to strike the ideal balance of • Superior IP3 bandwidth
parameters for your needs.
• Flat gain
• Great impedance match

Applications
• IF gain block
• Multi-purpose driver amplifiers

Distributed
Features
• Broadband performance
• Good impedance match
• Flat gain
• Excellent isolation

Applications
• Radars
• Point to point radio
• Test instruments

Cascode
Features
• Improves input-output isolation
• Reduces the Miller effect
• Wide bandwidth
• High gain
• High output impedance
• High supply voltage
• High IP3

Applications
• Low noise amplifiers

Mini-Circuits ®
ISO 9001 ISO 14001 AS 9100 www.minicircuits.com P.O. Box 350166, Brooklyn, NY 11235-0003 (718) 934-4500 [email protected]

18 19
 QUALITY AND RELIABILITY STRINGENT QUALIFICATION
MMIC AMPLIFIERS
Active Biasing
As changes in temperature can cause changes
in amplifier characteristics, temperature stability
Comprehensive Test and Characterization
Mini-Circuits uses state-of-the art RF measurement
equipment to characterize and qualify our
• S-parameter test
is mandatory to maintain the performance of • Power test
MMIC amplifier designs. Characterization and
the amplifier. Mini-Circuits MMIC amplifier qualification testing such as S-parameter testing, • Noise figure test
designs utilize an active biasing circuit consisting power testing, noise figure testing, IP3 testing, and • IP3 test
of components that have the same temperature load and source pull testing allow our designers • Load / source pull test
characteristics as the amplifier to improve to validate every amplifier design’s performance
temperature stability. RF signals are isolated and provide comprehensive performance
from the active biasing circuit, preventing analysis for each model.
degradation in RF performance.

Protection Circuitry
ESD Protection Circuit
Designed-in ESD protection
circuitry provides an alternate,
low-resistance path for ESD,
reducing current flow to Diode String
the critical circuit, and Power Clamp Circuit
improving ESD survivability
and product reliability.

Transient Current Protection Circuit

Voltage spikes may cause permanent
damage to MMIC amplifiers. Built-in transient
current protection circuitry prevents damage Our amplifiers undergo extensive and stringent qualification testing to ensure every unit
caused by voltage spikes without degrading delivers the quality you expect and reliability you can count on.
the amplifier’s RF performance. Protection
Circuit
Test Standard
High Temperature Operating Life Test ( HTOL ) JEDEC Standard, JESD22A-108
Moisture Sensitivity Test (Level 1) JEDEC Standard, J-STD-020
Junction Temperature Measurement
Temperature Cycle Test MIL-STD-883, Method 1010
We also measure and monitor MMIC amplifier junction
temperature using embedded temperature sensing diodes Autoclave Test JEDEC Standard, JESD22-A102
near the transistor junction on every design and High Temperature Storage Test JEDEC Standard, JESD22-A103
every production wafer to ensure we provide Scanning Acoustic Microscope Test JEDEC Standard, J-STD-020C
the highest quality and reliability in our amplifiers.
Humidity Test MIL-STD-202F Method 103B
Solderability Test JEDEC Standard, JESD22-B102
Temperature Sensing Diode
near Transistor Junction Lead Integrity Test MIL-STD-883, Method 2004
Whisker Growth Test JEDEC Standard, JESD22-A121
ESD Sensitivity Test ANSI/ESD-STM5.1-2007
(HBM) STM5.2-1999 (MM)

Mini-Circuits ®
ISO 9001 ISO 14001 AS 9100 www.minicircuits.com P.O. Box 350166, Brooklyn, NY 11235-0003 (718) 934-4500 [email protected]

20 21
 ADVANCED PACKAGING TECHNOLOGY COMPANION PRODUCTS and OTHER RESOURCES
MMIC AMPLIFIERS
Thermal Management Companion Products
90˚ Hybrids
At Mini-Circuits, we know temperature
has a direct impact on the operating • 5 to 8000 MHz
Thermal Conductivity (W/m° K) • Power handling up to 15W
performance and reliability of amplifiers.
During material selection, we use mold Material Mini-Circuits Competitors • Low
 phase and amplitude unbalance
compound, lead frame materials and
• LTCC packages as small as 0805
Mold 1.5 0.88
package designs with excellent heat Compound Baluns
dissipation properties that improve product Conductive • 4 kHz to 18 GHz
45 2.5
performance and long-term reliability. Epoxy • LTCC packages as small as 0805
• Insertion
 loss as low as 0.5 dB
• Low phase* and amplitude unbalance
*relative to 180˚

Bias Tees
• 0.1 to 10000 MHz
• Isolation up to 44 dB
• Insertion
 loss as low as 0.35 dB
• VSWR as low as 1.05:1 Extensive Application Notes
As part of our commitment to providing you with best in class product
Limiters
information and application support, our online library of application
• 0.2 to 8200 MHz notes contains over 40 articles with detailed technical information
• Input powers from +5 to +37 dBm regarding uses of many of our amplifier models in different systems
• Response
 time as fast as 2ns and operating environments.
• Hi-rel ceramic packages available

LTCC Filters Go to:

www.minicircuits.com/applications/application_notes.html
• DC to 18.3 GHz
• Low pass, high pass, band pass, You can also request an application note specifically for the work
and diplexers you’re doing by reaching out to us at [email protected].
• Sharp
 rejection We’re here to support you!
• Ceramic packages as small as 0603

Moisture Sensitivity Level 1

Our proprietary package design meets MSL Level 1 standards and
eliminates the risk of package delamination, ensuring long term
Advanced Simulation Models
Mini-Circuits has always provided customers with free S-Parameters for all models to support performance
product reliability under all operating and assembly conditions. modeling and simulation over linear power domains. To allow designers to accurately model the complete linear
and non-linear performance of their designs, Mini-Circuits now provides free X-Parameters® for three of our
most popular MMIC amplifiers: PHA-1+, GVA-62+, and GVA-63+.

Made possible through our partnership with modeling and measurement specialists, Modelithics, this advanced
capability is ideal for use in systems with complex waveforms like LTE, OFDM and QAM, as well as for prediction
of power compression, non-linear distortion, and other behaviors elusive to conventional simulations.
C-Scan Image
Made possible through our partnership with modeling and measurement specialists, Modelitics, these
X-parameters models enable faster, more comprehensive feasibility assessments and more rapid transition from
prototype simulations to working designs. For more information…
Package without A-Scan Image Go to: FREE X-Parameters-Based
Non-Linear Simulation Models for ADS
delamination under Scanning http://www.minicircuits.com/products/x_parameters.shtml http://www.modelithics.com/mvp/Mini-Circuits.asp
Acoustic Microscopy Test

Mini-Circuits ®
ISO 9001 ISO 14001 AS 9100 www.minicircuits.com P.O. Box 350166, Brooklyn, NY 11235-0003 (718) 934-4500 [email protected]

22 23
 MMIC Amplifiers PRODUCT GUIDE

Product Line Overview

Find the Right Model for Your Needs in Seconds! ®

Why waste time searching for a needle in a haystack?
Instead of combing through tables and datasheets of hundreds of possible amplifier
options for the one that fits your requirements, visit minicircuits.com and use Yoni2 ®, U.S. Patents
U.S. Patents
7739260, 7761442
7739260, 7761442
our patented RF product search engine.
Yoni2® searches thousands of actual test data points from our entire database of catalog models and
non-catalog engineering designs for the amplifiers that meet or exceed your criteria.
Just visit the Yoni2 ® page for amplifiers at the link below, enter your desired frequency range, performance
requirements and click Search. Within seconds, Yoni2 ® will present a list of components what match your
criteria based on how they actually perform across your specific frequency band!

Go to:
www.minicircuits.com/products/Yoni_Amplifiers.shtml

Still didn’t find what you’re looking for? We may be able to create a custom design especially
for you. Reach out to us using the contact information below. We’re here to support you!

Direct Sales Technical Support

Brooklyn
[email protected] NORTH AMERICA EUROPE
1 718-934-4500 [email protected] [email protected]
(718) 934-4500 44 1252 832600
Missouri
[email protected] SINGAPORE, INDONESIA INDIA
1 417-335-5935 MALAYSIA, THAILAND
[email protected]
[email protected] 91 44 2 2622575
Europe
[email protected] (604) 646-2828 CHINA
44 1252-832600 [email protected]
ISRAEL 0591-8787-0001
Taiwan [email protected] Or
[email protected] 972 4 8749100 [email protected]
886 3 318 4450 20-8734 0992
TAIWAN & PHILIPPINES
[email protected]

Mini-Circuits ®

www.minicircuits.com P.O. Box 350166, Brooklyn, NY 11235-0003 (718) 934-4500 [email protected]