Analog Devices Inc. ADL5725-EVALZ

Overview

ADL5725-EVALZ from Analog Devices is an evaluation board designed to characterize the ADL5725 17.7–19.7 GHz SiGe low-noise amplifier (LNA), featuring a 50 Ω single-ended RF input and 100 Ω differential outputs, optimized for microwave radio link receiver applications with typical gain >25.1 dB and noise figure of 2.4 dB at 19.7 GHz.

For engineers reviewing the ADL5725-EVALZ datasheet, ADL5725-EVALZ lab setup, ADL5725-EVALZ power supply configuration, or ADL5725-EVALZ RF measurement interface, this board enables rapid validation of high-frequency LNA performance in SATCOM, phased array, and instrumentation systems using a simplified 5 V single-supply operation.

Technical Context

The ADL5725-EVALZ implements the ADL5725 LNA in a controlled RF environment with integrated ADM7170-1.8 V and ADM7172-3.3 V regulators, supporting biasing via on-board RBIAS (357 Ω) and decoupling with multi-value capacitor networks (4.7 nF to 4.7 µF) per supply rail. It provides direct access to INPT, OUTP, and OUTN pins through SMA connectors.

Operation requires external 5 V DC input, generating internal 1.8 V (VCC1) and 3.3 V (VCC2) supplies; total board current draw is ~111 mA. The board includes a jumper (P1) for band selection and supports differential output measurement via 180° hybrid connection, with RFON and RFOP routed to separate SMA ports.

Key Specifications

Availability

ADL5725-EVALZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for microwave radio link development, SATCOM terminal prototyping, and phased array receiver testing requiring stable component supply and validated RF evaluation infrastructure.

Supply support for ADL5725-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 and manufacturing expertise spanning RF, precision, power, and conversion technologies.

The ADL5725-EVALZ belongs to Analog Devices' RF & Microwave Evaluation Platform family, engineered specifically to accelerate characterization and integration of narrowband GaAs/SiGe LNAs in demanding 17–20 GHz communication systems.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the ADL5725-EVALZ?

The ADL5725-EVALZ is an evaluation board purpose-built to test and validate the ADL5725 17.7–19.7 GHz low-noise amplifier. It provides full RF signal path access, regulated biasing (1.8 V and 3.3 V), and SMA interfaces for input and differential outputs-enabling immediate lab-level characterization without custom PCB design. The ADL5725-EVALZ simplifies measurement of gain, noise figure, IIP3, and P1dB across temperature and supply variations.

Does the ADL5725-EVALZ require multiple power supplies?

No-the ADL5725-EVALZ operates from a single 5 V DC supply. Onboard ADM7170ACPZ-1.8 and ADM7172ACPZ-3.3 regulators generate the required 1.8 V (VCC1) and 3.3 V (VCC2) for the ADL5725 device. Total board current draw is approximately 111 mA under nominal conditions, eliminating need for external dual-rail supplies during evaluation.

How is differential output measured on the ADL5725-EVALZ?

Differential output is measured by connecting RFOP and RFON to a 180° hybrid coupler operating within 17.7–19.7 GHz, then routing the hybrid's difference port to a spectrum analyzer while terminating its sum port to 50 Ω. This method preserves amplitude/phase balance critical for driving differential downconverters or RF sampling ADCs, as specified in the ADL5725-EVALZ lab bench setup documentation.

Can the ADL5725-EVALZ be used with other LNA variants like ADL5723 or ADL5726?

No-the ADL5725-EVALZ is specifically laid out and calibrated for the ADL5725 die, including matching network tuning, RBIAS value (357 Ω), and regulator settings. While the ADL5723/ADL5726 share the same 8-lead LFCSP package, their frequency bands, bias requirements, and S-parameter behavior differ; using them on this board would yield non-compliant RF performance and invalid measurement data.

What is the role of the exposed pad on the ADL5725-EVALZ PCB?

The exposed pad on the ADL5725-EVALZ PCB corresponds to the ADL5725's EPAD and must be soldered to a low-impedance, thermally robust ground plane. This connection ensures optimal RF grounding, minimizes thermal resistance (θJB = 23.88 °C/W), and maintains signal integrity-critical for stable 19 GHz operation. Layout follows JEDEC JESD51-2 guidelines with 3×4 thermal vias beneath the pad.