Analog Devices Inc. ADRF5026-EVALZ

Overview

ADRF5026-EVALZ from Analog Devices is a 4-layer evaluation board designed to characterize the ADRF5026 ultrawideband nonreflective SPDT RF switch (100 MHz–44 GHz) in real-world high-frequency signal routing applications. It features 2.4 mm end-launch RF connectors (J1, J2, J3), Rogers RO4003 dielectric (8 mil), coplanar waveguide traces (14 mil width / 7 mil ground spacing), and thru-calibration capability for de-embedding board loss.

For engineers reviewing the ADRF5026-EVALZ datasheet, ADRF5026-EVALZ layout, ADRF5026-EVALZ calibration procedure, or ADRF5026-EVALZ RF performance validation, this board enables accurate measurement of insertion loss, isolation, return loss, and switching transients-critical for 5G mmWave infrastructure, test instrumentation, and military radar front-end development.

Technical Context

The ADRF5026-EVALZ implements a controlled-impedance RF path using coplanar waveguide geometry on a 62-mil-thick stack-up with top-layer signal routing and solid inner/bottom ground planes. Its 2.4 mm launchers interface directly with GSG probes or vector network analyzers without soldering, supporting repeatable S-parameter extraction up to 44 GHz.

Board-level design includes 100 pF bypass capacitors on VDD/VSS test points, unpopulated RC filter pads for CTRL/EN noise suppression, and dense via fencing around RF traces and the ADRF5026 LGA exposed pad to ensure RF and thermal grounding integrity per Analog Devices' recommended layout practices.

Key Specifications

Availability

ADRF5026-EVALZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for 5G mmWave infrastructure validation, microwave radio prototyping, and electronic warfare subsystem testing requiring stable component supply and traceable evaluation hardware.

Supply support for ADRF5026-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 RF ICs, headquartered in Norwood, MA, serving precision signal processing, communications, and industrial markets.

The ADRF5026-EVALZ belongs to Analog Devices' RF & Microwave Evaluation Platform product line, engineered specifically to accelerate characterization and integration of their ultrawideband silicon RF switches-including the ADRF5026-into demanding millimeter-wave systems.

FAQ

What is the primary purpose of the ADRF5026-EVALZ evaluation board?

The ADRF5026-EVALZ evaluation board is designed exclusively to validate the RF performance of the ADRF5026 nonreflective SPDT switch across its full 100 MHz to 44 GHz bandwidth. It provides calibrated 2.4 mm RF interfaces, optimized CPWG routing, and de-embedding capability so engineers can isolate true device-level insertion loss, isolation, return loss, and switching speed-without board parasitic interference. This makes ADRF5026-EVALZ essential for front-end design verification in 5G mmWave and defense electronics.

Does the ADRF5026-EVALZ support hot-switching measurements under RF signal presence?

Yes, the ADRF5026-EVALZ supports hot-switching characterization: its 2.4 mm launchers and low-parasitic layout allow application of continuous-wave RF signals up to +24 dBm (per ADRF5026 specs) while toggling CTRL/EN control lines. The board's grounded structure and bypassed supplies maintain signal integrity during transient switching events, enabling accurate 40 ns 0.1 dB RF settling time measurement as specified for the ADRF5026.

How is calibration performed on the ADRF5026-EVALZ to extract device-only S-parameters?

Calibration on the ADRF5026-EVALZ uses the integrated THRU_CAL transmission line to perform a thru-reflect-line (TRL) or response calibration. By measuring the thru path loss across frequency, users de-embed board effects from raw S-parameter data-yielding accurate ADRF5026 pin-level performance including insertion loss (e.g., 1.2 dB @ 18 GHz) and isolation (e.g., 55 dB @ 18 GHz). This process is validated in Analog Devices' Figure 17 and documented in the ADRF5026-EVALZ user guide.

Can the ADRF5026-EVALZ be used with the ADRF5027 RF switch?

No-the ADRF5026-EVALZ is specifically laid out for the ADRF5026 and is not compatible with the ADRF5027. Although both ICs share the same 20-terminal 3 mm × 3 mm LGA package (CC-20-3) and pinout, the ADRF5026-EVALZ's RF trace tuning, dielectric selection, and connector placement are optimized for the ADRF5026's 100 MHz–44 GHz band. The ADRF5027 operates down to 9 kHz and requires different low-frequency grounding and decoupling strategies not implemented on this board.

What power supply configuration is required to operate the ADRF5026-EVALZ with the ADRF5026 IC?

The ADRF5026-EVALZ requires dual-supply voltages applied to its VDD and VSS test points: +3.3 V (±0.15 V) and −3.3 V (±0.15 V), per the ADRF5026's absolute maximum and recommended operating conditions. Each supply must be bypassed with at least 100 pF (provided onboard) near the IC; additional bulk capacitance may be added at unpopulated pads. Power sequencing-ground first, then VDD, then VSS, then controls-is critical to avoid ESD damage and ensure reliable ADRF5026 operation on the ADRF5026-EVALZ.