Analog Devices Inc. ADA4303-2ACPZ-EB

Overview

ADA4303-2ACPZ-EB from Analog Devices is an evaluation board for the ADA4303-2 75 Ω active RF splitter IC, designed to validate signal splitting performance in CATV downstream paths. It delivers 3 dB gain per output channel, 24 dB output-to-output isolation, and supports 54 MHz to 865 MHz operation with <4.5 dB noise figure - enabling characterization of multituner set-top box and home gateway signal distribution.

For engineers reviewing the ADA4303-2ACPZ-EB datasheet, ADA4303-2ACPZ-EB pinout, ADA4303-2ACPZ-EB application, or ADA4303-2ACPZ-EB equivalent, this board provides verified 75 Ω coaxial I/O, integrated 249 Ω termination resistors, 1 µH bias choke support, and JEDEC-compliant 4-layer PCB layout optimized for RF linearity and impedance control at 75 Ω.

Technical Context

The ADA4303-2ACPZ-EB implements a fixed-gain, single-ended 1:2 RF splitter topology using the ADA4303-2 IC in a 12-lead LFCSP package. It incorporates 0.01 µF AC-coupling capacitors on all ports, dual 249 Ω output-to-ground resistors for gain setting and isolation enhancement, and a 1 µH RF choke between VCC and IL pin to bias internal nodes.

Designed for 5 V operation, the board maintains controlled 75 Ω characteristic impedance on all signal traces and includes dedicated 10 µF + 0.1 µF decoupling at VCC pins. Its layout follows RF best practices: ground plane continuity, exposed pad grounding, and minimized stub lengths to preserve CTB (−72 dBc) and CSO (−62 dBc) performance up to 865 MHz.

Key Specifications

Availability

ADA4303-2ACPZ-EB is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for CATV set-top box validation, home gateway RF path prototyping, and cable modem signal distribution development requiring stable component supply and traceable evaluation hardware.

Supply support for ADA4303-2ACPZ-EB 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 semiconductors, headquartered in Norwood, MA.

The ADA4303-2ACPZ-EB belongs to Analog Devices' RF & Microwave evaluation platform family, engineered specifically to accelerate design-in of broadband active splitters in cable infrastructure and consumer video equipment.

FAQ

What is the ADA4303-2ACPZ-EB used for?

The ADA4303-2ACPZ-EB is an evaluation board for the ADA4303-2 active RF splitter IC. It enables engineers to verify 75 Ω signal splitting performance - including gain flatness, output isolation, and distortion metrics - in real-world CATV downstream applications before committing to custom PCB designs. The ADA4303-2ACPZ-EB includes all necessary biasing, termination, and impedance-matched interconnects to replicate datasheet conditions.

Does the ADA4303-2ACPZ-EB require external power supplies?

Yes - the ADA4303-2ACPZ-EB requires a clean, regulated 5 V DC supply applied to the red VCC loop connector. Power must be decoupled per the board's design: 10 µF tantalum + 0.1 µF ceramic at the bus, plus individual 0.1 µF ceramics at each VCC pin. The ADA4303-2ACPZ-EB does not include onboard voltage regulation or level shifting.

Can the ADA4303-2ACPZ-EB be used with 50 Ω test equipment?

No - the ADA4303-2ACPZ-EB is strictly a 75 Ω system: SMA connectors, PCB traces, and terminations are all designed for 75 Ω impedance. Direct connection to 50 Ω network analyzers or signal generators will cause mismatch-induced measurement errors. Use calibrated 75 Ω test cables and 75 Ω adapters when characterizing the ADA4303-2ACPZ-EB.

What RF performance metrics can be validated using the ADA4303-2ACPZ-EB?

The ADA4303-2ACPZ-EB allows direct measurement of key RF parameters specified in the ADA4303-2 datasheet: S21 gain flatness (≤1 dB to 1.2 GHz), output-to-output isolation (≥24 dB), composite triple beat (CTB ≤ −72 dBc), composite second-order (CSO ≤ −62 dBc), and noise figure (<4.5 dB). All measurements assume proper 75 Ω termination and biasing as implemented on the ADA4303-2ACPZ-EB.

Is the ADA4303-2ACPZ-EB RoHS compliant?

Yes - the ADA4303-2ACPZ-EB conforms to RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU. All components, PCB finish, and solder used in the ADA4303-2ACPZ-EB meet lead-free requirements. The board carries the "Z" suffix designation per Analog Devices' ordering guide, confirming RoHS compliance for the evaluation platform.