Analog Devices Inc. ADL5535-EVALZ

Overview

ADL5535-EVALZ from Analog Devices is a fully populated evaluation board for the ADL5535 16 dB IF gain block, operating from 20 MHz to 1.0 GHz with 50 Ω input/output matching, 45.5 dBm OIP3 at 190/380 MHz, and 3.2–3.3 dB noise figure. It enables rapid characterization of RF linearity, gain flatness, and ADC driving performance in IF signal chains.

For engineers reviewing the ADL5535-EVALZ datasheet, ADL5535-EVALZ setup guide, ADL5535-EVALZ schematic, or ADL5535-EVALZ compatibility with ADL5535 amplifier testing, this board provides verified 5 V single-supply operation, calibrated S-parameter measurement access, W-CDMA ACPR validation, 16-QAM EVM assessment, and direct interface to AD9268 ADC reference designs.

Technical Context

The ADL5535-EVALZ implements the ADL5535 GaAs HBT gain block in a 3-lead SOT-89 package with exposed paddle thermal grounding. It integrates all required biasing (470 nH inductor), decoupling (1 µF / 1.2 nF / 68 pF), and AC-coupling (0.1 µF) components per Analog Devices' recommended layout.

Designed for RF subsystem validation, the board supports full 20 MHz–1 GHz frequency sweep testing with SMA connectors on RFIN and RFOUT, clip-on terminals for VCC/GND, and documented PCB land pattern compliance with JEDEC TO-243 (SOT-89) standards and AN-772 LFCSP guidelines.

Key Specifications

Availability

ADL5535-EVALZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for RF subsystem validation, IF amplifier characterization, W-CDMA transmitter linearity verification, high-speed ADC driver qualification, and 16-QAM modulation integrity testing requiring stable component supply and traceable evaluation hardware.

Supply support for ADL5535-EVALZ 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, with design centers worldwide and broad application expertise in RF, precision instrumentation, and data conversion.

The ADL5535-EVALZ belongs to Analog Devices' RF/Microwave Evaluation Platform family, engineered specifically to accelerate development of high-linearity IF gain blocks in cellular infrastructure, broadband test equipment, military comms, and high-fidelity data acquisition systems.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the ADL5535-EVALZ?

The ADL5535-EVALZ is an evaluation board designed exclusively for the ADL5535 16 dB IF gain block. It provides a ready-to-use platform for measuring gain flatness, OIP3, noise figure, ACPR, and EVM performance across 20 MHz–1 GHz. The ADL5535-EVALZ includes all necessary biasing, decoupling, and matching components as specified in the ADL5535 datasheet Rev. A.

Does ADL5535-EVALZ support DC-coupled operation?

No, ADL5535-EVALZ uses AC coupling on both RFIN and RFOUT with 0.1 µF capacitors, consistent with the ADL5535's requirement for dc blocking. The board does not provide provisions for DC-coupled signal paths, as the ADL5535 itself is not rated for DC input/output operation and requires external bias injection via the RFOUT pin.

Can ADL5535-EVALZ be used with the ADL5536 amplifier?

Yes - ADL5535-EVALZ is mechanically and electrically compatible with the pin-compatible ADL5536 (20 dB gain variant), as confirmed by the ADL5535 datasheet. Both devices share identical SOT-89 pinout, biasing topology, and 50 Ω matching, allowing direct substitution on the ADL5535-EVALZ board without layout changes.

What power supply configuration does ADL5535-EVALZ require?

ADL5535-EVALZ operates from a single 5 V supply delivered via clip-on terminals labeled VCC and GND. It incorporates a three-tier decoupling network (1 µF, 1.2 nF, and 68 pF) and a 470 nH bias inductor, enabling stable operation at 97 mA quiescent current - matching the ADL5535's specified supply conditions.

Is thermal management addressed on the ADL5535-EVALZ board?

Yes - the ADL5535-EVALZ implements the ADL5535's thermal requirements by soldering the exposed paddle directly to a large internal ground plane, per JEDEC TO-243 (SOT-89) recommendations and AN-772 layout guidance. This achieves the specified θJC = 5.0°C/W and supports continuous operation from −40°C to +85°C.