Analog Devices Inc. DC1638A

Overview

DC1638A from Analog Devices (formerly Linear Technology) is a demonstration board built around the LTC5587 6GHz RMS RF power detector IC with integrated 12-bit SPI-compatible ADC. It delivers ±1dB linearity over 40dB dynamic range (–34dBm to +6dBm at 2.14GHz), supports 500ksps sampling, and features 73LSB/dB output slope with 15mdB measurement resolution using 1.8V reference.

For engineers reviewing the DC1638A datasheet, DC1638A pinout, DC1638A application, or DC1638A equivalent, this page provides verified functional context, jumper-configurable supply settings (JP1–JP3), RF input matching guidance across 10MHz–6GHz, QuickEval software integration via DC590B, and real-world performance validation for WCDMA, WiMAX OFDM, and 3π/8 8PSK signals.

Technical Context

The DC1638A implements the LTC5587 in a fixed evaluation configuration optimized for 1.75–2.2GHz, but supports full 10MHz–6GHz operation via external matching networks on J1. Its analog VOUT feeds directly into the internal 12-bit ADC, with digital output scaled to 73LSB/dB and logarithmic intercept at –42dBm (2.14GHz).

Power sequencing is managed through three independent jumpers: JP1 sets VDD (3.3V), JP2 selects VREF (1.8V from onboard regulator), and JP3 configures OVDD (3.3V). The board interfaces exclusively with the DC590B USB controller, enabling 200Hz default sampling-scalable to 500ksps with host-side firmware control.

Key Specifications

Availability

DC1638A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for RF power monitoring, cellular base station calibration, and broadband signal integrity verification requiring stable component supply, traceable sourcing, and long-term design-in support.

Supply support for DC1638A 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. (including legacy Linear Technology products) designs high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and RF ICs for precision measurement, communications, and power management applications.

The DC1638A belongs to Analog Devices' demonstration circuit series targeting RF subsystem validation, specifically engineered to showcase the LTC5587's wideband RMS detection accuracy, temperature-stable logarithmic response, and seamless integration with QuickEval software for rapid prototyping.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the DC1638A demonstration board?

The DC1638A demonstration board is designed to evaluate the LTC5587 6GHz RMS RF power detector IC. It provides a complete, jumper-configurable hardware platform-including onboard 3.3V and 1.8V regulators, SMA RF input (J1), and DC590B interface-that validates the LTC5587's ±1dB linearity, 40dB dynamic range, and 12-bit ADC output across 10MHz–6GHz. The DC1638A enables immediate lab testing without custom PCB design.

How does the DC1638A support frequency bands outside its optimized 1.75–2.2GHz range?

The DC1638A supports operation from 10MHz to 6GHz by modifying external matching components at J1, as documented in Table 2 of the LTC5587 design files. For example, connecting a 0.01µF capacitor from Pin 8 to ground extends low-frequency response down to 10MHz. No board redesign is needed-only passive component changes per frequency target, preserving DC1638A's core layout and LTC5587 functionality.

What role does the DC590B play in operating the DC1638A?

The DC590B serves as the USB-to-SPI interface controller for the DC1638A, enabling PC-based communication and data acquisition. It supplies VCCIO (3.3V), manages EEPROM recognition via JP4, and powers DC1638A's digital rails through JP5. The DC1638A relies entirely on the DC590B for command transmission, ADC readout, and real-time plotting-making the DC590B an essential companion board for all DC1638A evaluations.

Can the DC1638A measure digitally modulated signals like WCDMA or WiMAX OFDM?

Yes-the DC1638A accurately measures digitally modulated waveforms using the underlying LTC5587's validated performance: ±0.5dB deviation for 4-carrier WCDMA (12dB PAPR) and WiMAX OFDM bursts. Its 500ksps maximum sampling rate and 15mdB measurement resolution ensure fidelity for peak-to-average ratio analysis, making the DC1638A suitable for transmitter linearity verification in LTE, 5G NR, and broadband wireless infrastructure development.

What are the critical jumper settings required before powering the DC1638A?

Before powering the DC1638A, set JP1 to 3.3V (VDD), JP2 to VREG (enabling the 1.8V VREF regulator), and JP3 to 3.3V (OVDD). Also configure the DC590B: set VCCIO to 3.3V, JP4 ("EN") to ON for automatic board recognition, and JP5 to ON for ISO/SW power delivery. Leaving JP1/JP2 open or misconfiguring JP4 will prevent proper LTC5587 initialization and ADC communication.