On September 1st, Chengdu Huamicro Technology Co., Ltd. officially announced the successful launch of HWD12B40GA4—China’s first domestically developed 4-channel 12-bit 40GSPS high-speed and high-precision RF direct sampling ADC chip. This breakthrough not only resets the performance benchmark for domestic ADCs but also marks that China has achieved international leading standards in the high-end RF direct sampling field.
In the world of high-speed signal processing, RF Direct Sampling technology is hailed as the "jewel in the crown." It can directly sample high-frequency RF signals, eliminating the need for complex frequency mixing and intermediate frequency (IF) stages. This not only greatly simplifies system design but also enhances reliability and reduces power consumption. However, the technical barrier for this technology is extremely high—especially for applications in the KU band (12-18GHz), which has long been monopolized by a handful of foreign manufacturers.
The HWD12B40GA4 launched by Chengdu Huamicro this time achieves a critical breakthrough with its 19GHz analog input bandwidth: it can directly cover C-band, X-band, KU-band, and even part of the K-band signals, truly realizing "RF direct sampling freedom" for domestic industries. Whether for satellite communications, millimeter-wave radar, or electronic reconnaissance, devices can now operate with simplified configurations—delivering stronger performance at lower costs.
From the perspective of core technical parameters, the chip’s performance is remarkable:
- In single-channel mode, it achieves a sampling rate of 40GSPS, capable of completing 40 billion accurate data acquisitions per second;
- In dual-channel mode, the sampling rate surges to 80GSPS—fast enough to capture the most transient signal changes, serving as a pivotal tool for cutting-edge fields like 6G communications and terahertz research;
- Most importantly, the chip adopts full independent forward design with complete intellectual property rights. The entire process, from wafer fabrication to packaging and testing, relies on domestic manufacturers—truly realizing independent controllability from design to production and ensuring supply chain safety and reliability.
In terms of application scenarios, HWD12B40GA4 has broad adaptability, widely used in radar, commercial satellites, electronic countermeasures, wireless communications, high-end instrumentation, and UAVs, with promising market prospects ahead. According to reports, the chip has been sampled to some customers, and there are already intent orders. Industry insiders stated that the launch of this chip not only reflects Chengdu’s technological strength in the chip field but also represents a collective leap forward for China’s high-end chip industry. It proves that domestic chips are capable of competing with international giants in top-tier fields—and even surpassing them in some aspects.
Core Technical Features of the Chip
- Integrates up to 4 channels, supporting multi-channel synchronization;
- Adjustable sampling rates: 24–40GSPS in 4-channel mode, 48–80GSPS in dual-channel mode;
- Analog input bandwidth up to 19GHz;
- Supports JESD204C high-speed serial output;
- High reliability (suitable for harsh operating environments).
ICgoodFind’s Perspective
ICgoodFind closely tracks breakthroughs in domestic high-end chips and has established cooperation with local original manufacturers like Chengdu Huamicro. For key RF direct sampling ADC chips such as HWD12B40GA4, we provide spot supply matching and customized BOM services. This helps customers in radar, satellite communications, and other fields quickly access independently controllable core components, seize opportunities for domestic high-end chip replacement, and ensure the progress of project R&D and mass production.
