Analog Devices Inc. ADF4118BRU-REEL7

Overview

ADF4118BRU-REEL7 from Analog Devices is a 3.0 GHz RF PLL frequency synthesizer designed as a programmable local oscillator (LO) in wireless transceiver up/down-conversion paths. It features a dual-modulus prescaler (32/33), 21-bit N-divider (N = BP + A), 14-bit R-divider, and integrated phase-frequency detector with charge pump - enabling precise VCO tuning for GSM, WCDMA, and WLAN systems.

For engineers reviewing the ADF4118BRU-REEL7 datasheet, ADF4118BRU-REEL7 pinout, ADF4118BRU-REEL7 application, or ADF4118BRU-REEL7 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 0.1–3.0 GHz RF input range, 200 MHz max prescaler output frequency, −90 dBc/Hz phase noise at 900 MHz (1 kHz offset), digital lock detect, and 3-wire serial interface compatibility with microcontroller-based PLL control loops.

Technical Context

The ADF4118BRU-REEL7 implements a fully integrated digital PLL core with a 32/33 dual-modulus prescaler, 13-bit B counter, and 5-bit A counter to realize wide-ratio N division (N = BP + A). Its PFD operates up to 55 MHz and supports programmable reference division via a 14-bit R counter (1–16,383).

Charge pump current is configurable (250 μA or 1 mA typ), with ±2.5% absolute accuracy and ≤3% sink/source matching. The device supports fastlock mode, power-down state (<1 μA sleep current), and MUXOUT-selectable outputs including lock detect, scaled RF, or scaled REFIN - all controlled via 21-bit shift register with C1/C2 latch addressing.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TSSOP-16 package (4.4 mm × 5.0 mm, 0.65 mm pitch), thermally enhanced with exposed pad (not electrically connected); RoHS-compliant, lead-free finish.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar RF PLL synthesizer applications.

Compared with ADF4118BRU-REEL7, ADF4158BCPZ-RL7 reduces component count but sacrifices VCO flexibility, while LMS8001TR replaces the entire RF signal chain - making ADF4118BRU-REEL7 optimal for designs requiring discrete, high-performance LO synthesis with full analog loop filter control.

Availability

ADF4118BRU-REEL7 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wireless infrastructure, handheld radio, and test equipment applications requiring stable component supply, extended temperature operation, and proven RF PLL performance.

Supply support for ADF4118BRU-REEL7 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 ICs, serving precision instrumentation, communications, and industrial markets since 1965.

The ADF411x family was engineered specifically for wireless infrastructure and handset LO synthesis, emphasizing low phase noise, wide RF bandwidth, and robust digital control - with ADF4118BRU-REEL7 targeting 3 GHz-class systems including WCDMA, LTE, and WLAN.

FAQ

What is the maximum RF input frequency supported by the ADF4118BRU-REEL7?

The ADF4118BRU-REEL7 supports an RF input frequency range of 0.1 GHz to 3.0 GHz, validated at −15 dBm input level. At higher input powers (e.g., −10 dBm), operation extends down to 0.2 GHz. This makes ADF4118BRU-REEL7 suitable for LO generation across GSM, WCDMA, and 5 GHz WLAN bands. Performance above 2.8 GHz is confirmed in Figure 14 of the Rev. D datasheet.

Does the ADF4118BRU-REEL7 require an external loop filter?

Yes, the ADF4118BRU-REEL7 requires an external passive loop filter between the CP (Pin 2) and VCO tuning input. The charge pump drives this filter to generate the analog tuning voltage; no internal filtering is provided. Designers must select resistor/capacitor values based on desired loop bandwidth, phase margin, and reference spur suppression - as detailed in Analog Devices' AN-584 application note.

How does the digital lock detect function in the ADF4118BRU-REEL7 work?

The ADF4118BRU-REEL7 digital lock detect asserts high when phase error falls below ±15 ns for three consecutive PFD cycles, and clears when error exceeds ±25 ns. It is accessible via MUXOUT (Pin 14) when configured with M3/M2/M1 = 110. This logic-level signal enables deterministic firmware-driven lock verification without spectrum analysis - a key feature for ADF4118BRU-REEL7 in automated calibration routines.

Can the ADF4118BRU-REEL7 operate from a 3 V supply while driving a 6 V VCO?

Yes. The ADF4118BRU-REEL7 supports separate VP (Pin 16) and AVDD/DVDD rails: AVDD/DVDD may be 3 V while VP is set to 6 V. This allows the charge pump to deliver up to 6 V tuning range to the VCO - essential for wideband varactor-tuned oscillators - without increasing system supply voltage. The VP specification explicitly permits AVDD ≤ VP ≤ 6.0 V per Table 1.

What package type and footprint does the ADF4118BRU-REEL7 use?

The ADF4118BRU-REEL7 uses a 16-lead TSSOP package (4.4 mm × 5.0 mm, 0.65 mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad (non-electrical). It is RoHS-compliant and rated for reflow peak temperature of 260°C. Pinout matches industry-standard layout for ADF411x series - allowing drop-in replacement among ADF4116/4117/4118 variants when thermal and electrical constraints permit.