Analog Devices Inc. ADA4303-2ACPZ-RL

Overview

ADA4303-2ACPZ-RL from Analog Devices is a 75 Ω, two-output active RF splitter IC designed for lossless signal distribution in CATV downstream paths. It delivers 3 dB gain per output channel, 24 dB output-to-output isolation, 1.7 GHz −3 dB bandwidth, and operates from −40°C to +85°C in a 3 mm × 3 mm LFCSP. It replaces passive splitter + amplifier combinations in multituner set-top boxes.

For engineers reviewing the ADA4303-2ACPZ-RL datasheet, ADA4303-2ACPZ-RL pinout, ADA4303-2ACPZ-RL application, or ADA4303-2ACPZ-RL equivalent, key selection criteria include 75 Ω impedance matching, CSO/CTB distortion performance at 865 MHz, thermal resistance (99.2°C/W), quiescent current (90 mA), and IL bias pin implementation for proper internal node biasing.

Technical Context

The ADA4303-2ACPZ-RL integrates a low-noise SiGe buffer amplifier followed by a resistive power divider, enabling 3 dB gain relative to input while maintaining 75 Ω terminations. Its architecture supports single-ended RF signal splitting without external gain stages.

It requires external 249 Ω resistors to ground on each output to set gain and improve isolation, and a 1 µH RF choke between VCC and IL (Pin 11) to bias internal nodes-both critical for achieving specified CSO (−62 dBc) and CTB (−72 dBc) at full channel load.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The ADA4303-2ACPZ-RL is housed in a 12-lead, 3 mm × 3 mm lead frame chip scale package (LFCSP, CP-12-5) with exposed pad (EPAD) requiring connection to ground plane for thermal and electrical integrity.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LMH2120UMX/NOPB and MAX2022ETE+, the ADA4303-2ACPZ-RL uniquely combines 75 Ω matched 1:2 splitting, 3 dB gain, and −72 dBc CTB in one LFCSP-enabling direct replacement of legacy passive modules without redesigning impedance networks or adding external components.

Availability

ADA4303-2ACPZ-RL is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for CATV set-top boxes, home gateways, and digital cable ready televisions requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed RoHS-compliant sourcing.

Supply support for ADA4303-2ACPZ-RL 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 RF ICs, serving precision instrumentation, communications, and industrial markets since 1965.

The ADA4303-2ACPZ-RL belongs to Analog Devices' RF & Microwave Amplifier product line, engineered specifically for broadband CATV infrastructure where 75 Ω impedance integrity, low distortion, and compact integration are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the recommended external component configuration for ADA4303-2ACPZ-RL to achieve datasheet performance?

The ADA4303-2ACPZ-RL requires a 1 µH RF choke between VCC and IL (Pin 11), 0.01 µF AC-coupling capacitors on VIN and both outputs, and 249 Ω resistors from VO1 and VO2 to ground. Power must be decoupled with 10 µF tantalum + 0.1 µF ceramic near VCC pins. These components are mandatory to achieve 3 dB gain, −72 dBc CTB, and 24 dB output isolation as specified in the ADA4303-2ACPZ-RL datasheet.

Does ADA4303-2ACPZ-RL support DC coupling, or is AC coupling required?

AC coupling is required for ADA4303-2ACPZ-RL. The device is designed for 75 Ω AC-coupled RF signal paths; VIN, VO1, and VO2 must each be coupled through 0.01 µF capacitors. DC coupling would violate the internal bias architecture and degrade noise figure, distortion, and return loss-none of which are characterized or guaranteed under DC-coupled conditions for ADA4303-2ACPZ-RL.

What is the role of the IL pin on ADA4303-2ACPZ-RL, and what happens if it is left unconnected?

The IL pin on ADA4303-2ACPZ-RL biases internal nodes and must be connected to the 5 V supply via a 1 µH RF choke. Leaving IL unconnected results in undefined DC operating points, causing severe gain compression, increased noise figure (>7 dB), and failure to meet −62 dBc CSO specifications. This condition invalidates all dynamic performance claims for ADA4303-2ACPZ-RL.

Can ADA4303-2ACPZ-RL operate with supply voltages other than 5 V?

No. ADA4303-2ACPZ-RL is specified only for 5 V ±0.5 V operation (4.5 V to 5.5 V). Operation outside this range violates Absolute Maximum Ratings and causes parametric shift: below 4.5 V, gain drops >1.5 dB and distortion increases sharply; above 5.5 V risks permanent damage. All ADA4303-2ACPZ-RL performance data-including 3 dB gain and −72 dBc CTB-is validated exclusively at 5 V.

How does the exposed pad (EPAD) on ADA4303-2ACPZ-RL affect thermal performance and RF grounding?

The EPAD on ADA4303-2ACPZ-RL must be soldered to a solid ground plane to achieve θJA = 99.2°C/W. Without EPAD grounding, junction temperature rises >25°C at 90 mA, risking thermal shutdown and parametric drift. RF grounding via EPAD also improves output return loss by >6 dB at 865 MHz-critical for maintaining −11 dB S22 and meeting CATV return loss standards for ADA4303-2ACPZ-RL.