Analog Devices Inc. ADL5960-EVALZ

Overview

ADL5960-EVALZ from Analog Devices is an evaluation board for the ADL5960 10 MHz to 20 GHz integrated vector network analyzer (VNA) front end IC. It provides full RF, LO, IF, and SPI interface access in a calibrated 4-layer PCB layout with SMA connectors, 50 Ω transmission lines, and precision decoupling-enabling immediate characterization of forward/reverse S-parameter magnitude and phase measurement capability, wideband bidirectional bridge performance, and programmable IF signal chain behavior.

For engineers reviewing the ADL5960-EVALZ datasheet, ADL5960-EVALZ pinout, ADL5960-EVALZ application, or ADL5960-EVALZ equivalent, this board supports rapid validation of VNA subsystems requiring >24 dB raw directivity at 1 GHz, SPI-configurable IF bandwidth (1–100 MHz), differential IF outputs up to 8 V_p-p, and synchronized multi-device operation via SYNC pin-critical for automated test equipment, broadband reflectometers, and materials analysis platforms.

Technical Context

The ADL5960-EVALZ implements the full functional block diagram of the ADL5960 IC: a 26-lead LGA-packaged wideband resistive bidirectional bridge (RFIN/RFOUT), dual downconversion mixers with flexible LO interface (LOP/LOM), offset frequency inputs (OFP/OFM), and fully differential IF outputs (IFFP/IFFM, IFRP/IFRM). It maintains 50 Ω impedance control across all RF paths and includes on-board voltage regulation, temperature sensing, and SPI-level translation circuitry.

All ADL5960 configuration registers-including LOMODE (divide-by-2/multiply-by-1,2,4), OFMODE (offset interface enable), FGAIN/RGAIN (6 dB step IF gain), and CIF1/CIF2 (IF filter bandwidth)-are accessible via onboard 10-pin header and supported by Analog Devices' ACE software. The board enables zero-IF and offset-IF operating modes, multi-device synchronization, and real-time dynamic range optimization of forward and reverse IF channels.

Key Specifications

Availability

ADL5960-EVALZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automated test equipment development, broadband reflectometer integration, and multiport VNA prototyping requiring stable component supply, traceable evaluation hardware, and manufacturer-supported firmware tools.

Supply support for ADL5960-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 semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and RF technologies for precision measurement, communications, and industrial systems.

The ADL5960-EVALZ belongs to Analog Devices' RF and microwave evaluation platform product line, designed specifically to accelerate development of compact, high-frequency vector network analyzers and inline RF power measurement solutions.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the ADL5960-EVALZ?

The ADL5960-EVALZ is a fully assembled and tested evaluation board for the ADL5960 integrated vector network analyzer front end IC. It enables engineers to characterize S-parameter magnitude and phase response, validate bidirectional bridge directivity (>24 dB at 1 GHz), test SPI-programmable IF gain and bandwidth settings, and evaluate multi-device synchronization using the SYNC pin-all without custom PCB design. The ADL5960-EVALZ includes calibrated RF paths, SMA interfaces, and ACE software compatibility.

Does ADL5960-EVALZ support both offset-IF and zero-IF operation modes?

Yes, the ADL5960-EVALZ supports both modes via the OFP/OFM interface. When OFMODE is set to 0x0–0x2, the board operates in offset-IF mode using an external low-frequency source applied to OFP/OFM to set IF center frequency (e.g., 500 kHz). When OFMODE = 0x3, it enables zero-IF operation where the LO directly drives the mixers. The ADL5960-EVALZ provides dedicated SMA connectors and biasing for both configurations, and its layout preserves signal integrity across the full 0.1–400 MHz OF input range.

Can multiple ADL5960-EVALZ boards be synchronized for multiport VNA applications?

Yes, the ADL5960-EVALZ implements the SYNC pin functionality described in the ADL5960 datasheet. Driving SYNC low simultaneously across multiple boards halts internal dividers and aligns phase states, enabling coherent multi-channel acquisition. This capability is validated in the board's schematic and layout, with matched trace lengths to SYNC and clock distribution nets. The ADL5960-EVALZ thus serves as a building block for 2-port, 4-port, or N-port VNA architectures without requiring external timing hardware.

What software and drivers are required to operate ADL5960-EVALZ?

The ADL5960-EVALZ is fully supported by Analog Devices' Analysis, Control, and Evaluation (ACE) software, which provides GUI-based register configuration, real-time IF waveform capture, gain/bandwidth sweeps, and calibration data import/export. No custom drivers are needed-ACE communicates over USB-to-SPI bridge (included on board) using standard Windows/Linux HID protocols. Firmware updates and register map definitions for the ADL5960-EVALZ are distributed through Analog Devices' official website and ACE update manager.

Is the ADL5960-EVALZ compatible with industry-standard calibration kits?

Yes, the ADL5960-EVALZ includes mechanical open, short, and 50 Ω load standards mounted directly on the evaluation board, traceable to NIST standards. Its 4-layer PCB features controlled-impedance 50 Ω microstrip lines with documented S-parameters, and Analog Devices provides de-embedding files for removing fixture effects. Users can apply standard TRL or SOLT calibration routines in ACE or third-party VNA software-ensuring accurate measurement of the ADL5960's intrinsic bridge directivity, insertion loss, and return loss up to 20 GHz.