Analog Devices Inc. AD8349-EVALZ

Overview

AD8349-EVALZ from Analog Devices is an evaluation board designed to characterize and validate the AD8349 RF quadrature modulator IC - a 700 MHz to 2700 MHz direct-conversion modulator with 0.3° quadrature error at 2140 MHz, –156 dBm/Hz noise floor, and <50 ns output enable/disable switching. It supports WCDMA, CDMA2000, GSM/EDGE, and LMDS transmitter development.

For engineers reviewing the AD8349-EVALZ datasheet, AD8349-EVALZ setup guide, AD8349-EVALZ signal integrity validation, or AD8349-EVALZ RF calibration procedure, this board provides full access to all AD8349 pins, calibrated baseband and LO interfaces, on-board biasing, and 50 Ω matched RF output for lab-grade modulation accuracy measurement.

Technical Context

The AD8349-EVALZ implements a complete test platform for the AD8349 monolithic silicon RF quadrature modulator, supporting differential I/Q baseband inputs (400 mV dc bias, 1.2 V p-p typical), differential LO drive (–10 dBm to 0 dBm), and single-ended 50 Ω RF output. It replicates production-level signal routing, grounding, and decoupling per Analog Devices' recommended layout.

Board-level design includes precision-matched 50 Ω microstrip traces, low-inductance ground vias to the exposed paddle, dual-stage supply filtering (0.1 µF + 100 pF per VPS pin), and configurable jumpers for ENOP control, COM pin grounding, and baseband termination - enabling accurate characterization of sideband suppression, carrier feedthrough, and third-order distortion across 700–2700 MHz.

Key Specifications

Availability

AD8349-EVALZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for WCDMA base station prototyping, 3GPP RF transmitter validation, and broadband wireless access system development requiring stable component supply and documented evaluation infrastructure.

Supply support for AD8349-EVALZ 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, Inc. is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and RF integrated circuits, headquartered in Norwood, MA, with design and manufacturing expertise spanning over five decades.

The AD8349-EVALZ belongs to Analog Devices' RF & Microwave Evaluation Platform product line, engineered specifically to accelerate time-to-test for high-frequency communication ICs used in cellular infrastructure and wireless broadband systems.

FAQ

What is the primary purpose of the AD8349-EVALZ?

The AD8349-EVALZ is an evaluation board designed exclusively to prototype, characterize, and validate the AD8349 RF quadrature modulator IC. It provides full access to all device pins, calibrated signal paths, proper grounding for the exposed paddle, and matched 50 Ω interfaces for baseband, LO, and RF output - enabling accurate measurement of modulation accuracy, sideband suppression, and noise floor performance.

Does the AD8349-EVALZ support both differential and single-ended LO drive?

Yes, the AD8349-EVALZ supports both configurations: differential LO drive via LOIP/LOIN pins using a balun (recommended), and single-ended LO drive with performance degradation as specified in the AD8349 datasheet Rev. B. The board includes footprint options and jumper settings to accommodate either method without solder modification.

Can the AD8349-EVALZ be used to measure carrier feedthrough and sideband suppression?

Yes, the AD8349-EVALZ is optimized for precise measurement of carrier feedthrough (down to –45 dBm typ.) and sideband suppression (up to –43 dBc typ. at 2140 MHz) as defined in the AD8349 datasheet. Its controlled impedance layout, low-noise power distribution, and calibrated baseband/LO drive paths ensure repeatable results aligned with production specifications.

What power supply requirements does the AD8349-EVALZ have?

The AD8349-EVALZ requires a single 4.75 V to 5.5 V dc supply, delivering up to 150 mA (typ.) when the AD8349 is enabled. On-board filtering uses 0.1 µF and 100 pF capacitors per supply pin (VPS1/VPS2), and the board includes test points for monitoring supply current and ripple during RF characterization.

Is the AD8349-EVALZ compatible with other Analog Devices modulators like the AD8345 or AD8346?

No - the AD8349-EVALZ is specifically laid out for the AD8349's 16-lead TSSOP package and pinout. Although the AD8349 is pin-compatible with the AD8345/AD8346 per datasheet, the AD8349-EVALZ does not include mechanical or electrical provisions for those devices; it lacks matching footprint pads, bias networks, or layout optimizations required for reliable operation of earlier-generation modulators.