Analog Devices Inc. ADL8111-EVALZ

Overview

ADL8111-EVALZ from Analog Devices is an evaluation board designed specifically for the ADL8111 10 MHz to 8 GHz broadband bypass amplifier with integrated SP4T nonreflective switches. It supports all four signal path states - internal amplifier, internal bypass, external bypass A, and external bypass B - and features fully populated Rogers 4350 PCB with 50 Ω RF traces, SMA connectors (J1, J2, J7–J10), and verified bias sequencing for stable LNA + switch operation.

For engineers reviewing the ADL8111-EVALZ datasheet, ADL8111-EVALZ schematic, ADL8111-EVALZ layout, or ADL8111-EVALZ power-up sequence, this board enables rapid characterization of gain flatness (±0.5 dB typical), OIP3 (34 dBm), noise figure (2.8 dB), switching speed (tON/tOFF = 160 ns), and insertion loss (1–2 dB) across its full 10 MHz–8 GHz frequency range in real-world RF front-end configurations.

Technical Context

The ADL8111-EVALZ implements the complete ADL8111 IC interface: dual 3.3 V/−3.3 V switch bias rails (VDD_SW/VSS_SW), 5 V amplifier drain supply (VDD_PA), digital control inputs VA/VB with 0 V / 1.4 V logic thresholds, and dc-coupled 50 Ω RF paths (RFIN, RFOUT, IN_A/OUT_A, IN_B/OUT_B). All critical decoupling, bias resistors (e.g., R1 = 560 Ω for 70 mA IDQ), and matching networks are pre-installed per Figure 86.

Its four-layer Rogers 4350 substrate ensures controlled impedance (50 Ω), low-loss RF routing, and thermal stability across −40°C to +85°C. The board validates simultaneous high linearity (IIP3 up to 59 dBm in external bypass modes) and low noise (NF = 2.8 dB) while enabling hot-switching tests up to 30 dBm at 2 GHz without damage.

Key Specifications

Availability

ADL8111-EVALZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for RF test instrumentation development, military communications prototyping, and broadband receiver front-end validation requiring stable component supply, traceable evaluation hardware, and manufacturer-validated reference design fidelity.

Supply support for ADL8111-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, industrial, and aerospace markets since 1965.

The ADL8111-EVALZ belongs to Analog Devices' RF & Microwave Evaluation Platform product line, engineered to accelerate time-to-test for broadband GaAs/SOI integrated front-end ICs requiring simultaneous high gain, low noise, and fast nonreflective switching.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the ADL8111-EVALZ?

The ADL8111-EVALZ is a fully assembled evaluation board for the ADL8111 broadband bypass amplifier IC. It enables engineers to characterize all four operational states - internal amplifier, internal bypass, external bypass A, and external bypass B - using factory-verified layout, biasing, and 50 Ω RF interconnects. The ADL8111-EVALZ supports immediate RF performance validation without custom PCB design or component sourcing.

Does the ADL8111-EVALZ include the ADL8111 IC?

Yes, the ADL8111-EVALZ includes a fully soldered ADL8111 IC in its 28-terminal LGA package (CC-28-3). The board ships with U1 populated, along with all supporting components: SMA RF connectors (J1, J2, J7–J10), DC header pins (J3, J4), 560 Ω bias resistor (R1), and 10 pF decoupling capacitor (C1), as listed in Table 10 of the ADL8111 datasheet Rev. A.

What RF frequency range can be tested using the ADL8111-EVALZ?

The ADL8111-EVALZ supports full-band characterization from 10 MHz to 8000 MHz, matching the ADL8111's specified operating range. Its Rogers 4350 substrate and 50 Ω microstrip routing maintain impedance integrity and low loss across this entire span, enabling accurate measurement of gain flatness, OIP3, NF, and switching transients in all four signal path states.

How are the digital control inputs VA and VB implemented on the ADL8111-EVALZ?

On the ADL8111-EVALZ, VA and VB are brought out to test points and/or headers (per Figure 86), accepting 0 V (low) and 1.4 V (high) logic levels to select the four ADL8111 signal path states. This matches the ADL8111's documented control interface and enables direct TTL/CMOS-level driving or manual jumper configuration during bench testing of amplifier vs. bypass behavior.

Is Gerber data available for the ADL8111-EVALZ?

Yes, Gerber files for the ADL8111-EVALZ are publicly available on the official Analog Devices ADL8111 product webpage. These files include full 4-layer stack-up, copper, solder mask, and silkscreen data, allowing users to inspect layout practices, replicate the board, or integrate its RF routing methodology into custom designs.