Analog Devices Inc. ADRF5043-EVALZ

Overview

ADRF5043-EVALZ from Analog Devices is a 4-layer evaluation board designed to characterize and validate the ADRF5043 nonreflective silicon SP4T RF switch operating from 9 kHz to 44 GHz. It implements a simplified application circuit with coplanar waveguide (CPWG) 50 Ω transmission lines, Rogers RO4003 dielectric, and optimized RF grounding for mmWave performance in test instrumentation and 5G infrastructure.

For engineers reviewing the ADRF5043-EVALZ datasheet, ADRF5043-EVALZ layout, ADRF5043-EVALZ Gerber files, or ADRF5043-EVALZ user guide, this board provides validated RF launch, thermal management via plated vias under the exposed pad, and dual-supply interface support for +3.3 V/−3.3 V operation - critical for evaluating high-isolation, low-insertion-loss switching in millimeter-wave systems.

Technical Context

The ADRF5043-EVALZ implements the ADRF5043 IC in a 3 mm × 3 mm LGA package (CC-24-12) with all 24 terminals accessible via edge-mounted 2.4 mm RF connectors and through-hole test points. Its stackup uses 0.5 oz top/bottom Cu layers plated to 1.5 oz, 8 mil RO4003 top dielectric, and 62 mil total thickness to support broadband impedance control and mechanical stability at 44 GHz.

Board-level design enforces RF integrity via top-layer CPWG traces (14 mil width, 7 mil ground clearance), tapered transitions at RFC/RFx pins, and dense via fencing around signal paths and the exposed thermal pad. Power delivery includes dedicated bypassing for VDD (+3.3 V) and VSS (−3.3 V), with CMOS/LVTTL-compatible control routing for EN, LS, V1, and V2 pins.

Key Specifications

Availability

ADRF5043-EVALZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for millimeter-wave test instrumentation, 5G base station development, and military radar prototyping requiring stable component supply and validated RF evaluation platforms.

Supply support for ADRF5043-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 Wilmington, MA, serving precision signal processing applications across industrial, communications, and defense markets.

The ADRF5043-EVALZ belongs to Analog Devices' RF Switch Evaluation Platform product line, engineered specifically to accelerate characterization and integration of ultrawideband SOI-based switches like the ADRF5043 in demanding mmWave systems.

FAQ

What is the ADRF5043-EVALZ used for?

The ADRF5043-EVALZ is a dedicated evaluation board for the ADRF5043 ultrawideband SP4T RF switch. It enables engineers to verify insertion loss, isolation, and switching performance from 9 kHz to 44 GHz under real-world PCB conditions - including RF launch integrity, thermal behavior, and dual-supply interface timing - without custom layout effort.

Does the ADRF5043-EVALZ include the ADRF5043 IC?

Yes, the ADRF5043-EVALZ includes one mounted ADRF5043BCCZN IC in a 24-terminal LGA package (CC-24-12). The board is fully assembled and tested, with the ADRF5043 soldered to the top layer and connected via optimized RF paths and power delivery networks as specified in the official ADRF5043 data sheet.

Can the ADRF5043-EVALZ be used for hot-switching validation?

Yes, the ADRF5043-EVALZ supports hot-switching validation up to 24 dBm average/peak RF input power across all paths (RFC–RF1 to RFC–RF4), consistent with the ADRF5043's rated hot-switching capability at TCASE = 85°C. Its robust grounding and thermal via structure maintain junction temperature within safe limits during sustained operation.

Where can I find Gerber files and the user guide for the ADRF5043-EVALZ?

Gerber files and the full ADRF5043-EVALZ user guide are publicly available on Analog Devices' website at www.analog.com/EVAL-ADRF5043. These resources include schematic diagrams, bill of materials, assembly drawings, and step-by-step setup instructions for configuring the ADRF5043-EVALZ with external controllers and RF sources.

Is the ADRF5043-EVALZ compatible with other ADRF50xx switches?

The ADRF5043-EVALZ is specifically optimized for the ADRF5043 and not pin- or layout-compatible with other ADRF50xx variants. While the ADRF5043 shares pinout compatibility with the ADRF5042, the ADRF5043-EVALZ layout does not support substitution of alternate ICs due to unique RF tuning, bias network, and thermal requirements defined for the ADRF5043's 9 kHz–44 GHz bandwidth.