Analog Devices Inc. ADL5920-EVALZ

Overview

ADL5920-EVALZ from Analog Devices is an evaluation board for the ADL5920 ultrawideband bidirectional RMS and VSWR detector IC, supporting 9 kHz to 7 GHz operation. It enables precise forward/reverse power and return loss measurement with ±1.0 dB accuracy across a 49 dB input range, linear-in-dB outputs, and integrated dc-coupled RF path-used in RF test instrumentation, wireless transmitter ALC loops, and cable/connector health monitoring.

For engineers reviewing the ADL5920-EVALZ datasheet, ADL5920-EVALZ setup guide, ADL5920-EVALZ calibration procedure, or ADL5920-EVALZ compatibility with ADL5920 ICs, this board provides validated reference design, full pin-access layout, on-board decoupling, and documented RF performance validation up to 7 GHz-critical for rapid prototyping of broadband power monitoring systems.

Technical Context

The ADL5920-EVALZ implements the ADL5920's internal 32-lead LFCSP package in a 4-layer FR-4 PCB with controlled-impedance 50 Ω microstrip routing, calibrated SMA connectors (RFIN/RFOUT), and configurable bias networks for PWDN/TADJS, VOCM, VTGT, and VREF. It supports both ac-coupled and dc-coupled RF operation modes via jumper-selectable VNEG grounding or −2.5 V supply routing.

Board-level features include on-board CRMSF/CRMSR averaging capacitors (0.1 µF default), CHPF+/CHPF−/CHPR+/CHPR− offset compensation pads (populated with 100 nF for >2 GHz use), and dedicated test points for VRMSF, VRMSR, VDIFF+, VDIFF−, VTEMP, and DECL-enabling real-time characterization of rms linearity, temperature drift, directivity, and VSWR output fidelity.

Key Specifications

Availability

ADL5920-EVALZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for RF test equipment development, wireless infrastructure ALC validation, and broadband inline power monitoring requiring stable component supply and traceable evaluation hardware.

Supply support for ADL5920-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.

The ADL5920-EVALZ belongs to Analog Devices' RF & Microwave Evaluation Platform family, designed to accelerate development of precision RF power measurement, VSWR sensing, and transmitter condition monitoring systems.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the ADL5920-EVALZ?

The ADL5920-EVALZ is a fully assembled and tested evaluation board for the ADL5920 bidirectional RMS and VSWR detector IC. It provides immediate access to all device functions-including forward/reverse power detection, return loss calculation, and temperature-compensated dc-coupled RF operation-enabling rapid validation of the ADL5920 in real-world 9 kHz–7 GHz signal paths without custom PCB design.

Does ADL5920-EVALZ support dc-coupled RF operation?

Yes, ADL5920-EVALZ supports dc-coupled RF operation. It includes jumper options to configure VNEG1/VNEG2 for −2.5 V supply (required for dc coupling) and routes DECL to ground per ADL5920 specifications. The RFIN and RFOUT traces are dc-coupled compatible, allowing small dc bias current through the internal bridge-verified in the board's schematic and layout documentation.

What RF connectors and interface options does ADL5920-EVALZ provide?

ADL5920-EVALZ uses two edge-mount SMA connectors (one for RFIN, one for RFOUT) with 50 Ω impedance control. It also provides BNC headers for VRMSF, VRMSR, VDIFF+, VDIFF−, VTEMP, and VREF; test points for all 32 pins; and solder pads for CHPF+/CHPF−/CHPR+/CHPR− and CRMSF/CRMSR capacitors-enabling flexible signal acquisition and configuration.

How is temperature compensation implemented on ADL5920-EVALZ?

ADL5920-EVALZ implements temperature compensation using the ADL5920's TADJI and PWDN/TADJS pins. On-board resistive dividers allow setting TADJI voltage (0–1 V) and PWDN/TADJS threshold (1.2–1.5 V) per datasheet guidance. VTEMP is routed to a test point for external monitoring, and VOCM is configurable via a 1 kΩ resistor to VREF-supporting full intercept and slope drift correction per application notes.

Can ADL5920-EVALZ be used for return loss calibration at 6 GHz?

Yes, ADL5920-EVALZ supports return loss calibration up to 6 GHz. Its layout maintains ≥14 dB directivity at 6 GHz (per datasheet), and the VDIFF+/- differential output is routed with matched length and impedance. Calibration is enabled via known standards (open/short/load) applied at RFOUT while driving RFIN, with VDIFF voltage mapped to return loss using the documented 2.5 V common-mode baseline and slope.