Analog Devices Inc. DC1710A-D

Overview

DC1710A-D from Analog Devices (formerly Linear Technology) is a demonstration circuit built around the LTC5593 dual high-dynamic-range downconverting mixer IC, supporting 2.3GHz–4.5GHz RF input and 2.1GHz–4.2GHz LO frequency ranges. It delivers >20dB conversion gain, >30dBm IIP3, and 190MHz single-ended 50Ω IF outputs, optimized for LTE/WiMAX multichannel diversity receivers.

For engineers reviewing the DC1710A-D datasheet, DC1710A-D pinout, DC1710A-D application, or DC1710A-D equivalent, key selection considerations include its validated 2.3–4.5GHz RF bandwidth, independent channel enable control (ENA/ENB), low-current mode (ISEL), 3.3V VCC + 5V VCCIF dual-supply operation, and reconfigurable IF inductor network for 140–470MHz IF tuning.

Technical Context

The DC1710A-D implements the LTC5593's passive double-balanced mixer cores with integrated IF buffer amplifiers, enabling high linearity without active biasing of the RF/LO paths. Its RF and LO ports maintain >12dB return loss across specified bands when terminated properly, and the bi-directional mixer architecture necessitates external RF port termination to suppress LO±IF pseudo-image spurs.

Each channel features independent shutdown via ENA/ENB pins (logic-high enabled), and global low-power mode via ISEL pin (logic-high reduces current by 37% at performance cost). The board supports both low-side and high-side LO injection, with IF output equations f_IF = |f_RF − f_LO| confirmed for 190MHz nominal operation.

Key Specifications

Availability

DC1710A-D is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for LTE base station diversity receivers, WiMAX infrastructure front-ends, and broadband spectrum monitoring systems requiring stable component supply and rapid RF evaluation capability.

Supply support for DC1710A-D 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) is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and RF IC design, serving communications, instrumentation, and defense markets.

The DC1710A-D belongs to Analog Devices' high-dynamic-range RF mixer evaluation platform family, designed specifically to accelerate development of multichannel, high-linearity wireless receivers operating above 2GHz.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the DC1710A-D?

The DC1710A-D is a fully assembled and tested demonstration circuit that evaluates the LTC5593 dual downconverting mixer IC. Its primary function is to provide a ready-to-use RF evaluation platform for 2.3–4.5GHz applications, featuring matched 50Ω RF/LO/IF interfaces, independent channel enable control, and reconfigurable IF filtering. DC1710A-D simplifies validation of conversion gain, IIP3, noise figure, and return loss without custom PCB design.

Can the DC1710A-D operate with IF frequencies other than 190MHz?

Yes - the DC1710A-D is explicitly designed for IF reconfiguration. By replacing inductors L1A/L2A/L1B/L2B with values listed in Table 3 (e.g., 270nH for 140MHz, 56nH for 300MHz), the board supports IF outputs from 140MHz to 470MHz. External load resistors R2A/R2B may be added to fine-tune impedance matching at non-nominal frequencies. DC1710A-D's schematic and layout preserve signal integrity across this range.

What are the absolute maximum supply voltages for DC1710A-D?

The DC1710A-D supports VCC up to 4.0V (for LTC5593 core) and VCCIF up to 5.5V (for IF amplifiers), per the LTC5593's Absolute Maximum Ratings. Exceeding these risks permanent damage. Recommended operating conditions are 3.3V for VCC and 5V for VCCIF to achieve highest P1dB. Supply ramp time must exceed 1ms to avoid internal ESD circuit transients. DC1710A-D's turret terminals require power-off connection to prevent voltage overshoot.

How does the enable control work on DC1710A-D?

DC1710A-D implements the LTC5593's independent channel enable logic via ENA and ENB pins: logic-high (>2.5V) enables the respective mixer channel; logic-low (<0.3V) disables it. Pins must be actively pulled high or low - floating states yield indeterminate operation. This allows dynamic channel gating in diversity or TDD systems. DC1710A-D provides test points and jumper options to configure ENA/ENB independently, supporting real-time channel management during evaluation.

Why is RF port termination critical when measuring DC1710A-D?

Due to the LTC5593's passive double-balanced mixer architecture, LO±IF mixing products appear at the RF input port (~12dB below RF signal level). Without proper termination (e.g., 6dB attenuator, isolator, or diplexer), these "pseudo-image spurs" reflect back and degrade measured linearity and noise figure. DC1710A-D's recommended test setup (Figure 6/7) mandates 50Ω termination at all unused ports and explicit RF input attenuation - a requirement directly tied to the physics of the DC1710A-D's signal path, not optional best practice.