Analog Devices Inc. AD831AP-REEL

Overview

AD831AP-REEL from Analog Devices is a monolithic doubly balanced RF mixer IC with +24 dBm output-referred third-order intercept (IP3), –10 dBm LO drive requirement, and 500 MHz RF/LO bandwidth. It delivers differential current IF output (250 MHz) and single-ended voltage IF output (>200 MHz), supporting DC-coupled operation in HF/VHF receivers and direct-to-baseband conversion systems.

For engineers reviewing the AD831AP-REEL datasheet, AD831AP-REEL pinout, AD831AP-REEL application, or AD831AP-REEL equivalent, this page provides verified specifications, PLCC-20 package mapping, real-world use scenarios for I/Q demodulation and image-reject architectures, and validated alternative mixers with documented functional trade-offs.

Technical Context

The AD831AP-REEL integrates a Class-A RF voltage-to-current converter, high-gain LO limiting amplifier, differential mixer core, and low-noise single-ended output amplifier. Its RF and LO ports accept ±1 V common-mode input with 2 pF capacitance and 1.3 kΩ/500 Ω input resistance, enabling DC coupling under ±4.5 V to ±5.5 V dual supply or 9 V to 11 V single supply.

IF output supports two modes: open-collector differential current (pins IFN/IFP) with 250 MHz bandwidth, or buffered single-ended voltage (pin OUT) with >200 MHz small-signal bandwidth, ±1.4 V swing into 100 Ω, and programmable gain via external feedback resistor between OUT and VFB.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AD831AP-REEL is housed in a 20-lead Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier (PLCC) package per JEDEC MO-047AA, designated P-20A, with body size 0.385" × 0.385" (9.78 mm × 9.78 mm), 0.120" height (3.04 mm), and gull-wing leads. Thermal resistance is θ_JA = 90°C/W on PCB.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar RF mixer applications.

Compared with AD831AP-REEL, AD8362ARUZ serves entirely different measurement functions and cannot replace mixing capability, while LT5560EDD#TRPBF offers broader frequency coverage in a smaller package but sacrifices 4.5 dB of IP3 and requires higher LO drive at VHF/UHF-making AD831AP-REEL preferable for high-linearity HF/VHF receiver front-ends.

Availability

AD831AP-REEL is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for HF/VHF receiver front-ends, direct-conversion SDR transceivers, and ultrasound Doppler imaging systems requiring stable component supply and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for AD831AP-REEL includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Analog Devices is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing semiconductors, headquartered in Norwood, MA.

The AD831 product line was designed specifically for high-dynamic-range RF mixing in communications, instrumentation, and medical imaging-emphasizing low distortion, DC coupling, and integrated signal conditioning.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for the AD831AP-REEL?

The AD831AP-REEL is rated for operation from –40°C to +85°C, as confirmed in the Analog Devices ordering guide and absolute maximum ratings table. This industrial temperature range ensures reliability in base station, test equipment, and outdoor communication applications where ambient conditions vary widely. The AD831AP-REEL maintains specified IP3, noise figure, and gain performance across this full range when powered within recommended supply limits.

Can the AD831AP-REEL operate with a single 9 V supply?

Yes, the AD831AP-REEL supports single-supply operation from 9 V to 11 V. In this configuration, the COM pin must be biased to half-supply voltage using external resistors, and the OUT pin requires AC coupling to the load. The internal amplifier remains fully functional, delivering >200 MHz bandwidth and ±1.4 V output swing. Performance metrics-including +24 dBm IP3 and 10.3 dB noise figure-are preserved under proper biasing per Figure 10 in the datasheet.

How does the BIAS pin affect AD831AP-REEL performance?

The BIAS pin on the AD831AP-REEL controls quiescent current: left open for full 125 mA operation (maximizing IP3 and compression point), or tied to VP to reduce current to ~45 mA. This adjustment trades dynamic range for power savings-e.g., reducing IP3 by ~5 dB while cutting total supply current nearly in half. The change is monotonic and repeatable, enabling adaptive power management in battery-sensitive or thermally constrained designs without altering external circuitry.

What is the maximum RF input frequency supported by the AD831AP-REEL?

The AD831AP-REEL supports RF input frequencies up to 500 MHz, as specified in the "RF INPUT Bandwidth" parameter under –10 dBm signal level with IP3 ≥ +20 dBm. This is validated across multiple test conditions including 100 MHz, 120 MHz, and 130.7 MHz RF inputs in mixer tables, and confirmed in TPC 1 (Third Order Intercept vs. Frequency). Operation beyond 500 MHz results in measurable degradation of IP3 and isolation, making 500 MHz the practical upper limit for full-spec performance.

Does the AD831AP-REEL require external termination resistors on its RF and LO ports?

No, the AD831AP-REEL does not require external termination resistors on RF or LO ports because its input stages include on-chip bias networks that establish correct DC operating points for AC-coupled operation. When DC-coupled, external termination is determined by system impedance requirements (e.g., 50 Ω source matching). The datasheet specifies 1.3 kΩ differential input resistance at RF and 500 Ω at LO-values compatible with standard RF interface designs without mandatory external resistive loading.