Analog Devices Inc. ADMV1013-EVALZ

Overview

ADMV1013-EVALZ from Analog Devices is a fully featured evaluation board for the ADMV1013 24 GHz to 44 GHz wideband microwave upconverter, integrating an on-board microcontroller, AD5601 nanoDAC®, LDO regulators, and USB-SPI interface for rapid RF system characterization in point-to-point microwave radio designs.

For engineers reviewing the ADMV1013-EVALZ datasheet, ADMV1013-EVALZ pinout, ADMV1013-EVALZ application, or ADMV1013-EVALZ equivalent, this page delivers verified hardware configuration details, ACE software integration steps, IF/I/Q mode setup guidance, VCTRL voltage control methodology, and lab bench validation procedures using spectrum analyzers and RF signal sources.

Technical Context

The ADMV1013-EVALZ implements full SPI register control of the ADMV1013 via an embedded microcontroller and ACE software, supporting both IF (800 MHz–6 GHz) and direct I/Q baseband (I_P/I_N/Q_P/Q_N) input modes with selectable 90° hybrid or 180° hybrid coupling. It enables sideband nulling, LO quadrupler bandwidth selection (5.4–10.25 GHz), and differential/single-ended LO path configuration through Register 0x09.

Hardware-level control includes AD5601 nanoDAC-generated VCTRL1/VCTRL2 (0–3300 mV, max gain at 1800 mV), envelope detector output (VENV_P/VENV_N), and reset functionality via S1 button. The board operates from a single 5 V dc supply and provides test points for 3.3 V and 1.8 V rails used by the ADMV1013 IC.

Key Specifications

Availability

ADMV1013-EVALZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for microwave radio development, mmWave transceiver prototyping, and high-frequency upconversion validation requiring stable component supply, traceable sourcing, and technical support for RF design teams.

Supply support for ADMV1013-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 communications, industrial, automotive, and aerospace markets with precision RF, power, and data conversion solutions.

The ADMV1013-EVALZ belongs to Analog Devices' microwave evaluation platform family, designed specifically to accelerate development of E-band point-to-point radios and 5G backhaul systems using wideband upconversion ICs.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the ADMV1013-EVALZ?

The ADMV1013-EVALZ is an evaluation board for the ADMV1013 wideband microwave upconverter, enabling rapid characterization of 24–44 GHz RF output performance. It integrates SPI control via USB, AD5601 nanoDAC for VCTRL voltage generation, LDO regulation, and configurable IF/I/Q input paths - all centered on validating the ADMV1013's upconversion behavior in real lab environments.

How do I configure the ADMV1013-EVALZ for IF mode versus I/Q mode?

To configure the ADMV1013-EVALZ for IF mode, connect IF_I and IF_Q to a frequency generator through a 90° hybrid (800 MHz–6 GHz), keep I/Q jumpers J1–J4 removed, and float I_P/I_N/Q_P/Q_N. For I/Q mode, connect I_P/I_N/Q_P/Q_N to an I/Q baseband generator and install jumpers J1–J4. Both modes require proper LO input (differential via LO_P/LO_N with 180° hybrid) and 5 V power applied to the 5V test point.

What software and drivers are required to operate the ADMV1013-EVALZ?

The ADMV1013-EVALZ requires Analog Devices' ACE software, the ADMV1013 plugin (Board.ADMV1013.acezip), and the ADMV1013 USB driver. Installation must include SDP Drivers, LRF Drivers, and .NET 4.0 Client during ACE setup. The board appears as "ADMV1013-044718, Rev. A" in ACE's Attached Hardware section after successful driver and plugin installation.

How is VCTRL voltage set on the ADMV1013-EVALZ, and what is its operational range?

VCTRL voltage on the ADMV1013-EVALZ is generated by the on-board AD5601 nanoDAC and applied to VCTRL1 and VCTRL2 pins of the ADMV1013. It is adjustable from 0 mV to 3300 mV via the ACE software's Gain Setup tab, with 1800 mV delivering maximum gain. Values above 1800 mV yield no additional gain; values below provide proportional attenuation. External VCTRL sources require disabling the AD5601 via Power-Down Modes setting.

Does the ADMV1013-EVALZ support both differential and single-ended LO inputs?

Yes, the ADMV1013-EVALZ supports both differential and single-ended LO inputs via LOP and LON terminals. Mode selection is controlled through QUAD_SE_MODE bits (Bits[9:6], Register 0x09) in the ADMV1013 register map, configurable in ACE software. Differential operation uses both LOP and LON with a 180° hybrid; single-ended mode disables one input path while retaining the other.