**HMC973LP3ETR: A High-Performance 13 GHz Divide-by-4 Prescaler for Next-Generation RF Systems**

The relentless drive for higher data rates and greater bandwidth in modern communication and radar systems is pushing the operational frequencies of RF components into the millimeter-wave range. At these frequencies, the design of critical signal chain elements, such as frequency dividers, becomes exceptionally challenging. The **HMC973LP3ETR**, a **divide-by-4 prescaler** from Analog Devices, stands out as a pivotal solution engineered to meet the demanding requirements of next-generation RF systems.

Operating over a broad input frequency range from 5 GHz to an impressive **13 GHz**, the HMC973LP3ETR is designed to handle the high-frequency signals prevalent in advanced 5G infrastructure, microwave backhaul links, satellite communication systems, and sophisticated test and measurement equipment. Its primary function is to **accurately divide an input clock or local oscillator (LO) signal by a factor of four**, providing a stable, lower-frequency output that is crucial for subsequent processing stages in phase-locked loops (PLLs) and frequency synthesizers.

A key performance metric for any prescaler is its phase noise contribution. The HMC973LP3ETR exhibits **exceptionally low additive phase noise**, ensuring that the integrity of the original signal is preserved. This is paramount in systems where spectral purity and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) are directly linked to overall data throughput and sensitivity. Furthermore, the device features a **high sensitivity** of down to -5 dBm, allowing it to lock onto relatively low-power input signals, which provides greater flexibility in system design and reduces the burden on preceding driver amplifiers.

Housed in a compact, RoHS-compliant **3x3 mm QFN leadless package**, the component is built for high-reliability applications. Its LP3 process technology ensures robust performance across industrial temperature ranges. The prescaler requires a single positive supply between 3.15 V and 3.45 V, making it easy to integrate into existing board designs. The differential output structure helps to mitigate common-mode noise, enhancing signal fidelity in electrically noisy environments.

In practice, the HMC973LP3ETR simplifies the design of high-frequency PLLs by acting as a reliable first-stage divider. This enables the use of a fundamental VCO operating at the target RF frequency, often yielding better phase noise performance than alternative architectures employing lower-frequency VCOs with multipliers.

**ICGOOODFIND:** The HMC973LP3ETR is an **indispensable high-frequency component** for engineers developing cutting-edge RF systems. Its combination of a **13 GHz maximum input frequency, low phase noise, and high integration** within a miniature package makes it a superior choice for achieving the performance and miniaturization goals of modern wireless applications.

**Keywords:** **Divide-by-4 Prescaler**, **13 GHz**, **Low Phase Noise**, **MMIC**, **Frequency Synthesizer**