Analog Devices Inc. AD9860BSTZ

Overview

AD9860BSTZ from Analog Devices is a mixed-signal front-end (MxFE™) processor optimized for broadband communications, integrating dual 10-bit 64 MSPS ADCs and dual 12-bit 128 MSPS DACs in a single 128-lead LQFP package. It supports real or I/Q baseband/low-IF receive paths with programmable gain amplifiers (±0.2 dB step accuracy), digital Hilbert/decimation filters, and transmit paths with interpolation, digital quadrature mixing, and 20 dB TxPGA range - deployed in cable modems and fixed wireless systems.

For engineers reviewing the AD9860BSTZ datasheet, AD9860BSTZ pinout, AD9860BSTZ application, or AD9860BSTZ equivalent, key selection criteria include its dual-channel 10/12-bit converter resolution, 64/128 MSPS sampling rates, integrated DLL clock multiplier, auxiliary 10-bit ADCs and 8-bit DACs, and support for half-duplex operation across –40°C to +85°C industrial temperature range.

Technical Context

The AD9860BSTZ implements a fully integrated MxFE architecture with independent Rx and Tx signal chains: each Rx channel includes input buffer (200 Ω differential impedance), RxPGA (20 dB gain range, 1 dB steps), decimation filter, and digital Hilbert filter; each Tx channel integrates 12-bit DACs, TxPGA (20 dB range, ±0.1 dB step accuracy), 2×/4× interpolation, Hilbert filter, and digitally tunable real/complex up-converters.

Its programmable delay-locked loop (DLL) generates internal clocks from a single crystal or external reference (32–128 MHz outputs), while SPI-controlled register bank enables full configuration of timing modes, gain settings, filter bypasses, and auxiliary functions - all operating from 3.3 V analog/digital supplies with defined low-power modes at 16/32 MSPS.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AD9860BSTZ uses a 128-lead Low Profile Quad Flatpack (LQFP) with exposed pad thermal design. Pin assignments are validated per Analog Devices AD9860/AD9862 Rev. 0 datasheet Figure 1 (Top View) and Pin Function Descriptions (pp. 7–8).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar mixed-signal front-end applications.

Compared with AD9862BSTZ, AD9860BSTZ trades 2-bit ADC/DAC resolution and ~3 dB SNR/SFDR for lower power (307 mA vs. 307+12 mA Rx+DLL) and cost; compared with MAX2022ETM+, it provides full baseband signal chain functionality but requires external RF components and frequency planning.

Availability

AD9860BSTZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for cable modems, fixed wireless access units, and VDSL2 line cards requiring stable component supply, long-term industrial temperature support, and verified mixed-signal front-end integration.

Supply support for AD9860BSTZ 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 digital signal processing technologies, headquartered in Norwood, MA.

The AD9860BSTZ belongs to the MxFE™ family - designed specifically for cost-sensitive, space-constrained broadband communication infrastructure requiring integrated dual-path ADC/DAC, programmable filtering, and clock synthesis in a single chip.

FAQ

What is the maximum sampling rate supported by the AD9860BSTZ ADC and DAC?

The AD9860BSTZ supports a maximum ADC sampling rate of 64 MSPS and a maximum DAC update rate of 128 MSPS. These rates are specified under normal timing mode with 2× DLL setting and apply to both channels independently. The ADC's 64 MSPS rate enables baseband capture up to 32 MHz bandwidth, while the DAC's 128 MSPS rate supports direct synthesis of signals up to 64 MHz with 4× interpolation.

Does the AD9860BSTZ support both real and complex (I/Q) signal processing?

Yes, the AD9860BSTZ supports both real and complex signal processing in both receive and transmit paths. Its digital Hilbert filters and programmable quadrature mixers allow I/Q up/down-conversion, and the Rx/Tx data buses are configurable for interleaved or separate I/Q mapping. This capability is confirmed in the Functional Block Diagram and General Description sections of the AD9860/AD9862 datasheet Rev. 0.

What is the operating temperature range for the AD9860BSTZ?

The AD9860BSTZ is rated for operation from –40°C to +70°C across all functions. When operated in half-duplex mode, it is characterized for extended industrial operation from –40°C to +85°C - a specification explicitly stated in the Ordering Guide and Absolute Maximum Ratings sections of the datasheet Rev. 0.

How many auxiliary analog converters does the AD9860BSTZ integrate?

The AD9860BSTZ integrates four auxiliary ADC inputs (AUX_ADC_A1/A2/B1/B2) and three auxiliary DAC outputs (AUX_DAC_A/B/C). The auxiliary ADCs are 10-bit, 1.25 MSPS, with 3 V input range; the auxiliary DACs are 8-bit, with 3 V output range and 8 ms settling time - all accessible via dedicated pins and documented in the Pin Function Descriptions (pp. 7–8).

Is the AD9860BSTZ pin-compatible with the AD9862BSTZ?

Yes, the AD9860BSTZ is pin-compatible with the AD9862BSTZ. Both devices share identical 128-lead LQFP packaging (ST-128B), identical pin functions, and identical register maps - confirmed in the Ordering Guide and Pin Configuration diagrams of the AD9860/AD9862 datasheet Rev. 0. This allows drop-in replacement where higher-resolution conversion is required.