Analog Devices Inc. AD831APZ-REEL

Overview

AD831APZ-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 dual-mode operation (±4.5 V to ±5.5 V or +9 V to +11 V single supply). It delivers 250 MHz differential current IF output and >200 MHz single-ended voltage IF output, enabling direct-to-baseband conversion in ultrasound Doppler receivers and high-side injection downconversion in HF/VHF communications.

For engineers reviewing the AD831APZ-REEL datasheet, AD831APZ-REEL pinout, AD831APZ-REEL application, or AD831APZ-REEL equivalent, this page provides verified specifications, validated 20-lead PLCC package mapping, confirmed DC-coupled port capability, real-world isolation performance (LO-to-RF ≥70 dB at 100 MHz), and two field-validated alternative mixers for RF/IF signal chain design.

Technical Context

The AD831APZ-REEL integrates a Class-A RF-to-current converter, high-gain LO limiting amplifier, differential mixer core, and low-noise single-ended output amplifier - all on one die. Its architecture enables true DC-to-500 MHz RF/LO bandwidth and eliminates insertion loss inherent in passive mixers.

Port isolation is achieved via transformerless balanced topology: LO-to-RF isolation reaches 70 dB, RF-to-IF is 45 dB, and LO-to-IF is 30 dB (all measured at 100 MHz RF/10.7 MHz IF). The BIAS pin allows programmable quiescent current (100 mA → 45 mA), trading dynamic range for power consumption without altering pin configuration or external biasing.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AD831APZ-REEL uses a 20-lead Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier (PLCC) package per JEDEC MO-047-AA, with 0.050" pitch, 0.395" × 0.395" body, and gull-wing leads. Thermal resistance is θ_JA = 90°C/W when mounted on PCB.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LT5560IMS#TRPBF and MAX2021ETX+T, the AD831APZ-REEL uniquely combines DC-coupled operation, programmable bias, and 20-lead PLCC packaging - making it the only option supporting zero-IF ultrasound and calibrated I/Q demodulation without external components.

Availability

AD831APZ-REEL is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for ultrasound imaging systems, cellular infrastructure receivers, satellite telemetry demodulators, and IoT transmitter designs requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges (–40°C to +85°C).

Supply support for AD831APZ-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, serving precision instrumentation, communications, and industrial markets since 1965.

The AD831 product line was designed specifically for high-dynamic-range RF/IF signal chains in medical ultrasound, wireless infrastructure, and test equipment - emphasizing linearity, port isolation, and flexible coupling options over cost or integration density.

FAQ

What is the maximum RF input frequency supported by the AD831APZ-REEL?

The AD831APZ-REEL supports RF input frequencies up to 500 MHz under –10 dBm signal level conditions with IP3 ≥ +20 dBm. At 100 MHz RF and 10.7 MHz IF, its 1 dB compression point remains +10 dBm, confirming full-bandwidth usability in HF/VHF receivers and DMR base stations.

Can the AD831APZ-REEL operate with a single 9 V supply?

Yes, the AD831APZ-REEL supports single-supply operation from +9 V to +11 V. In this mode, the COM pin must be biased to +4.5 V using a resistor divider, and the OUT pin requires AC coupling to the load. Performance metrics including +24 dBm IP3 and 200 MHz IF bandwidth remain valid per the datasheet's +9 V test conditions.

How does the BIAS pin affect the AD831APZ-REEL's performance?

The BIAS pin adjusts quiescent current from 100 mA (open) to ~45 mA (tied to VP), reducing total power by 55%. This lowers the 1 dB compression point from +10 dBm to ~+5 dBm and IP3 from +24 dBm to ~+17 dBm - a controlled tradeoff for battery-powered or thermally constrained applications where moderate linearity suffices.

Does the AD831APZ-REEL require external termination resistors on its RF and LO ports?

No - the AD831APZ-REEL features internal 500 Ω differential LO input resistance and 1.3 kΩ differential RF input resistance, eliminating need for external terminations. When AC-coupled, on-chip bias networks automatically configure input impedance; DC coupling preserves these values without additional components.

What is the purpose of the IFN and IFP pins on the AD831APZ-REEL?

IFN and IFP are open-collector differential current outputs from the mixer core. They enable transformer coupling for 250 MHz bandwidth, capacitor-based low-pass filtering at the core, or direct summation of two AD831APZ-REEL units for image-reject or I/Q architectures - all without loading the mixer with external impedances that degrade linearity.