Analog Devices Inc. ADL5724-EVALZ

Overview

ADL5724-EVALZ from Analog Devices is an evaluation board designed to characterize the ADL5724 12.7–15.4 GHz low-noise amplifier (LNA) in microwave receiver applications. It integrates the ADL5724 die in an 8-lead LFCSP package, supports single 5 V input with on-board 1.8 V and 3.3 V regulators, provides matched 50 Ω input and 100 Ω differential outputs, and enables differential RF measurement via integrated 180° hybrid interface.

For engineers reviewing the ADL5724-EVALZ datasheet, ADL5724-EVALZ lab setup, ADL5724-EVALZ schematic, or ADL5724-EVALZ power sequencing, this page delivers verified board-level specifications, layout guidance, supply configuration options, thermal management requirements, and test-ready connection diagrams for rapid validation of high-frequency LNA performance.

Technical Context

The ADL5724-EVALZ implements the ADL5724 SiGe LNA in a controlled RF environment optimized for 12.7–15.4 GHz operation. It includes dual low-dropout regulators (ADM7170ACPZ-1.8 and ADM7172ACPZ-3.3), precision 442 Ω RBIAS termination, and decoupling network with 4.7 µF/0.1 µF/4.7 nF/33 pF capacitors per supply rail.

Board layout follows RF best practices: exposed pad soldered to low-impedance ground plane, 3×4 thermal vias beneath the LFCSP, RF traces impedance-controlled at 50 Ω, and differential output routing matched for phase balance. The board accepts external signal generators and spectrum analyzers via SMA connectors and supports hybrid-based differential-to-single-ended conversion.

Key Specifications

Availability

ADL5724-EVALZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for microwave radio link development, SATCOM receiver prototyping, phased array front-end validation, and RF instrumentation requiring stable component supply and traceable evaluation hardware.

Supply support for ADL5724-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, serving communications, industrial, automotive, and aerospace markets.

The ADL5724-EVALZ belongs to Analog Devices' RF & Microwave Evaluation Platform family, engineered specifically to accelerate characterization and integration of high-frequency LNAs like the ADL5724 into 12–16 GHz receiver chains.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the ADL5724-EVALZ?

The ADL5724-EVALZ is an evaluation board purpose-built to validate the performance of the ADL5724 low-noise amplifier across its full 12.7–15.4 GHz operating band. It provides all necessary biasing, regulation, matching, and interconnect infrastructure - including SMA ports, on-board regulators, and differential output routing - enabling immediate RF testing without custom PCB design. The ADL5724-EVALZ does not operate as a standalone product but serves exclusively as a characterization platform for the ADL5724 IC.

Does the ADL5724-EVALZ require external power supplies?

No - the ADL5724-EVALZ operates from a single 5 V DC supply. On-board ADM7170ACPZ-1.8 and ADM7172ACPZ-3.3 regulators generate the precise 1.8 V (VCC1) and 3.3 V (VCC2) required by the ADL5724. When using only 5 V, resistors R1 and R2 are installed; for direct 1.8 V/3.3 V supply, those resistors must be removed per the board's configuration table. Total board current draw is approximately 114 mA.

How is differential output measured on the ADL5724-EVALZ?

The ADL5724-EVALZ routes the ADL5724's OUTP and OUTN pins to separate SMA connectors (572X_RFOP and 572X_RFON). For differential measurement, both outputs connect to a 180° hybrid coupler within the 12.7–15.4 GHz band; the hybrid's difference port feeds the spectrum analyzer while its sum port is terminated in 50 Ω. This method preserves amplitude/phase balance and avoids deembedding errors inherent in single-ended probing.

What thermal considerations apply to the ADL5724-EVALZ?

The ADL5724-EVALZ requires the exposed pad of the ADL5724 LFCSP to be soldered directly to a low-impedance ground plane with at least 3×4 thermal vias connecting to inner ground layers. This configuration achieves θJB ≈ 23.88 °C/W, critical for maintaining junction temperature below 150°C during continuous operation. Board layout documentation explicitly prohibits floating the EPAD or omitting thermal vias.

Can the ADL5724-EVALZ be used for production deployment?

No - the ADL5724-EVALZ is strictly an evaluation and development tool, not a production-grade module. It lacks environmental qualification, long-term reliability testing, or mechanical ruggedization. Its layout prioritizes measurement fidelity over size, cost, or manufacturability. For production, designers must integrate the ADL5724 die (in CP-8-10 LFCSP) into their own application-specific PCB following Analog Devices' RF layout guidelines and thermal recommendations.