Analog Devices Inc. ADF5001BCPZ-RL7

Overview

ADF5001BCPZ-RL7 from Analog Devices is a 4 GHz to 18 GHz divide-by-4 RF prescaler IC used as a high-frequency front-end divider in microwave PLL systems. It delivers −150 dBc/Hz phase noise at 100 kHz offset (f_IN = 12 GHz), operates from a single 3.3 V supply, draws 30 mA active current, and features differential 100 Ω RF outputs for direct interface with ADF4156/ADF4106 PLLs in point-to-point radio transceivers.

For engineers reviewing the ADF5001BCPZ-RL7 datasheet, ADF5001BCPZ-RL7 pinout, ADF5001BCPZ-RL7 application, or ADF5001BCPZ-RL7 equivalent, key selection criteria include input frequency range (4–18 GHz), differential output impedance (100 Ω), power-down capability (7 mA), thermal rating (−40°C to +105°C), and LFCSP package compatibility with high-density RF layouts.

Technical Context

The ADF5001BCPZ-RL7 implements a fixed divide-by-4 function using high-speed SiGe BiCMOS circuitry optimized for broadband RF division without external biasing or tuning. Its internal 3 pF ac-coupling on RFIN and dual 1 pF ac-coupled RFOUT pins enable direct connection to 50 Ω or 100 Ω differential loads.

It integrates two independent supply domains (VDD1 for input/divider, VDD2 for output stage), supports CE-controlled power-down mode, and uses an exposed paddle LFCSP package thermally optimized for RF power dissipation (θ_JA = 90°C/W).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The ADF5001BCPZ-RL7 is housed in a 3 mm × 3 mm, 16-lead LFCSP_WQ (CP-16-18) package with exposed paddle requiring GND connection per JEDEC MO-220-WEED-6.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with HMC433LP3E and LMX2594EPE, the ADF5001BCPZ-RL7 uniquely balances 4–18 GHz bandwidth, fixed ÷4 ratio, 3.3 V single-supply operation, and integrated RF coupling-making it optimal for compact, low-power microwave PLL extensions where simplicity and phase noise are critical.

Availability

ADF5001BCPZ-RL7 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for point-to-point radios, VSAT terminals, and communications test equipment requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges and high-frequency RF designs.

Supply support for ADF5001BCPZ-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, Inc. is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and RF ICs, serving precision instrumentation, communications, and industrial markets since 1965.

The ADF5001BCPZ-RL7 belongs to Analog Devices' RF frequency synthesis product line, engineered specifically to extend the operational bandwidth of PLL-based microwave synthesizers while minimizing phase noise degradation and board-level complexity.

FAQ

What is the exact division ratio and frequency range supported by the ADF5001BCPZ-RL7?

The ADF5001BCPZ-RL7 provides a fixed divide-by-4 function across a verified input frequency range of 4 GHz to 18 GHz. It does not support programmable division ratios or operation outside this band. Output frequencies therefore range from 1 GHz to 4.5 GHz, enabling direct interfacing with ADF4156 and ADF4106 PLLs that accept up to 4.5 GHz differential RF inputs.

Does the ADF5001BCPZ-RL7 require external ac-coupling capacitors on its RF ports?

No-the ADF5001BCPZ-RL7 integrates a 3 pF capacitor on RFIN and 1 pF capacitors on each RFOUT pin. These eliminate the need for external ac-coupling components in standard 50 Ω or 100 Ω differential configurations, reducing PCB area and insertion loss in high-frequency layouts.

How is the CE pin used in the ADF5001BCPZ-RL7, and what happens when it is left unconnected?

The CE pin (Pin 7) is active-high and controls power-down mode. When CE is low, the ADF5001BCPZ-RL7 draws only 7 mA. If unused, CE may be left floating because it features an internal weak pull-up resistor-ensuring default active operation without external biasing.

What is the recommended grounding strategy for the ADF5001BCPZ-RL7's LFCSP package?

All nine GND pins (1, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 12, 13, 16) and the exposed paddle must be connected to a low-inductance RF ground plane. The paddle is not optional-it is thermally and electrically essential for meeting phase noise and power dissipation specs per the datasheet's pin configuration guidance.

Can the ADF5001BCPZ-RL7 drive a 50 Ω single-ended load directly, and what is the expected output power?

Yes-the ADF5001BCPZ-RL7 can drive a 50 Ω single-ended load from either RFOUT pin, delivering −10 dBm to −5 dBm output power (typical). For best performance, however, differential 100 Ω loading is recommended, yielding −7 dBm to −2 dBm and improved common-mode rejection.