Analog Devices Inc. ADL8107-EVALZ

Overview

ADL8107-EVALZ from Analog Devices is a 4-layer RF evaluation board designed to characterize the ADL8107 GaAs pHEMT MMIC low noise amplifier across its full 6 GHz to 18 GHz operating band. It features 2.92 mm female coaxial connectors, 50 Ω coplanar waveguide traces, and SMT test points for VDD, GND, and VBIAS, supporting bias sequencing and thermal management per the device's −40°C to +85°C specification.

For engineers reviewing the ADL8107-EVALZ datasheet, ADL8107-EVALZ pinout, ADL8107-EVALZ application, or ADL8107-EVALZ equivalent, this board enables precise RF performance validation-including gain, noise figure, and return loss-using standard lab equipment such as network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, and 5 V/300 mA power supplies under controlled bias conditions.

Technical Context

The ADL8107-EVALZ implements a calibrated RF path with a depopulated through calibration trace between J1 and J2, delivering insertion loss from −0.26 dB at 6 GHz to −1.06 dB at 18 GHz and input/output return loss exceeding −12 dB across the band. Its Rogers 4350B and Isola 370HR substrate stackup ensures stable high-frequency impedance control and thermal dissipation.

Grounding architecture includes direct connection of the ADL8107's exposed paddle and package ground leads to internal ground planes via multiple vias, optimized for both electrical integrity and heat transfer. The board uses production-grade decoupling (C3: 0.1 µF X7R, C4: 100 pF C0G) and a factory-configured 7.15 kΩ RBIAS resistor to replicate the ADL8107's qualified 90 mA quiescent current at 5 V.

Key Specifications

Availability

ADL8107-EVALZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for RF front-end validation, mmWave LNA characterization, and 5G/defense radar receiver design requiring stable component supply and repeatable measurement setups.

Supply support for ADL8107-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, serving precision instrumentation, communications, and defense markets since 1965.

The ADL8107-EVALZ belongs to Analog Devices' RF & Microwave Evaluation Platform family, engineered specifically to accelerate development of wideband GaAs pHEMT amplifiers in defense EW, satellite comms, and test instrumentation applications.

FAQ

What is the purpose of the ADL8107-EVALZ?

The ADL8107-EVALZ is a dedicated evaluation platform for the ADL8107 GaAs pHEMT low noise amplifier. It enables engineers to measure key RF parameters-including small-signal gain, noise figure, and input/output match-across the full 6 GHz to 18 GHz band using standard lab instruments. Its calibrated layout and production-grade biasing replicate the conditions used to qualify the ADL8107 in the official datasheet.

Does the ADL8107-EVALZ require external components to operate?

No, the ADL8107-EVALZ ships fully populated with all necessary passive components, including decoupling capacitors (C3, C4), bias resistor R2 (7.15 kΩ), and 2.92 mm RF connectors. Only a 5 V/300 mA power supply, RF signal generator, and network analyzer are required to begin characterization-no additional parts or soldering are needed for baseline operation of the ADL8107-EVALZ.

How is calibration performed on the ADL8107-EVALZ?

Calibration on the ADL8107-EVALZ uses the depopulated through path between J1 and J2 connectors. When both J1 and J2 are installed with 2.92 mm connectors, users can measure the insertion loss (−0.26 dB to −1.06 dB) and return loss (≥ −12 dB) across 6–20 GHz, providing a known reference for de-embedding board losses during ADL8107 device-level measurements.

What is the recommended bias sequence for the ADL8107-EVALZ?

The ADL8107-EVALZ requires strict bias sequencing: during power-up, apply 5 V to VDD first, then enable the RF input signal; during power-down, disable the RF input before ramping VDD to 0 V. This prevents gate overvoltage and ensures reliable operation of the ADL8107 under all test conditions.

Can the ADL8107-EVALZ be used beyond 18 GHz?

Yes-the 2.92 mm connectors and 50 Ω coplanar waveguide routing on the ADL8107-EVALZ support measurements up to 40 GHz. While the ADL8107 device itself is specified only to 18 GHz, the board's physical design allows extended-frequency verification of layout parasitics, connector transitions, and system-level integration effects above the IC's rated band.