Analog Devices Inc. AD8367ARUZ-RL7

Overview

AD8367ARUZ-RL7 from Analog Devices is a 500 MHz linear-in-dB variable gain amplifier (VGA) with integrated square-law RMS detector, designed for IF/RF signal conditioning in 200 Ω impedance systems. It delivers −2.5 dB to +42.5 dB analog gain control at 20 mV/dB scaling, supports AGC loop operation via DETO pin, and operates from 2.7 V to 5.5 V supply. Used in cellular base station IF chains and broadband power amplifier control loops.

For engineers reviewing the AD8367ARUZ-RL7 datasheet, AD8367ARUZ-RL7 pinout, AD8367ARUZ-RL7 application, or AD8367ARUZ-RL7 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 500 MHz 3 dB bandwidth, ±0.2 dB gain conformance over 40 dB range at 70 MHz, 26 mA quiescent current at 5 V, 354 mV rms AGC setpoint, and TSSOP-14 package compatibility with high-density RF layouts.

Technical Context

The AD8367ARUZ-RL7 implements Analog Devices' X-AMP® architecture: a 9-stage 200 Ω resistive ladder attenuator (5 dB/stage) followed by a 42.5 dB fixed-gain feedback amplifier with 100 GHz gain-bandwidth product. Gain direction is selectable via MODE pin (HI = positive slope, LO = negative slope), enabling both VGA and closed-loop AGC modes.

In AGC mode, the on-chip square-law detector compares VOUT to a factory-trimmed 354 mV rms setpoint; error current at DETO integrates externally (via CAGC) to generate VGAIN, achieving 1 μs small-signal response for 6 dB steps. Output centering is maintained via DECL/HPFL loop with user-adjustable corner frequency down to <10 kHz.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AD8367ARUZ-RL7 is housed in a 14-lead TSSOP package (4.4 mm × 5.0 mm, 0.65 mm pitch), rated for −40°C to +85°C industrial operation. Pin layout supports RF layout best practices: ICOM (Pins 1, 7, 14) and OCOM (Pin 8) provide dedicated low-inductance ground returns; VPSI/VPSO (Pins 12, 11) are internally tied but require external bypassing; HPFL (Pin 13) and DECL (Pin 9) enable user-configurable loop dynamics.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar variable gain amplifier applications.

Compared with AD8367ARUZ-RL7, AD8369ARUZ extends bandwidth at the expense of power efficiency, while LMH6505MA/NOPB trades integration for lower cost and simpler layout - neither offers identical 500 MHz/AGC/detector co-integration in TSSOP-14.

Availability

AD8367ARUZ-RL7 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for cellular infrastructure, broadband access equipment, and high-speed data converter interface designs requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed traceability.

Supply support for AD8367ARUZ-RL7 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, with R&D focused on precision signal chain solutions.

The AD8367ARUZ-RL7 belongs to Analog Devices' X-AMP® family of RF/IF variable gain amplifiers, engineered specifically for linear-in-dB gain control, integrated detection, and robust operation in 200 Ω communication systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum input signal level the AD8367ARUZ-RL7 can handle without distortion?

The AD8367ARUZ-RL7 accepts a maximum input of 700 mV p-p at INPT to avoid input stage overload. This limit applies across the full gain range and temperature range (−40°C to +85°C). Exceeding this level causes clipping and increased harmonic distortion, particularly at high gain settings where the 9-stage attenuator's first tap is selected. The 200 Ω input impedance remains stable up to 500 MHz, ensuring predictable loading in matched systems.

How does the AD8367ARUZ-RL7 implement automatic gain control (AGC) without external components?

The AD8367ARUZ-RL7 implements AGC using its on-chip square-law detector, which compares VOUT to a factory-trimmed 354 mV rms setpoint. When DETO is connected to GAIN and MODE is pulled low, the detector's output current integrates on an external capacitor (CAGC) to generate the control voltage. With CAGC = 100 pF, the AD8367ARUZ-RL7 achieves 1 μs response for 6 dB steps - requiring only one passive component for full closed-loop operation.

What is the purpose of the DECL and HPFL pins on the AD8367ARUZ-RL7?

DECL (Pin 9) and HPFL (Pin 13) configure the output dc centering loop. A capacitor from HPFL to ground sets the loop's corner frequency (f_HP ≈ 0.02/C_HP in kHz/nF); DECL provides the feedback node. This loop forces VOUT dc bias to VS/2, preventing saturation in ac-coupled IF chains. Without external capacitance, the corner is ~500 kHz; adding 10 nF lowers it to ~2 MHz, enabling stable operation with bursty or low-duty-cycle signals.

Can the AD8367ARUZ-RL7 operate from a 3.3 V supply, and how does that affect performance?

Yes, the AD8367ARUZ-RL7 operates from 2.7 V to 5.5 V, including 3.3 V nominal supplies. At 3.3 V, output swing reduces to ~2.8 V p-p (vs. 3.5 V p-p at 5 V), and output IP3 degrades by ~2.5 dB (to ~34 dBm at 70 MHz). Noise figure increases by ~0.5 dB. Quiescent current remains ~26 mA. All gain scaling, conformance, and AGC functionality are preserved - making it viable for low-voltage portable infrastructure where power efficiency is prioritized over peak linearity.

What package type and footprint does the AD8367ARUZ-RL7 use, and are there thermal considerations?

The AD8367ARUZ-RL7 uses a 14-lead TSSOP package (4.4 mm × 5.0 mm, 0.65 mm pitch) with θ_JA = 150°C/W. Its maximum junction temperature is 125°C, and it operates from −40°C to +85°C. For continuous 26 mA operation at 5 V, power dissipation is ~130 mW; with θ_JA, this yields ~20°C rise above ambient. Adequate copper pour on ICOM/OCOM pads and 0.1 μF ceramic decoupling at VPSI/VPSO are essential to maintain stability and prevent thermal drift in gain conformance.