Analog Devices Inc. DC2847A-KIT

Overview

DC2847A-KIT from Analog Devices is an evaluation kit for the ADL5920 ultrawideband bidirectional RMS and VSWR detector IC, enabling precise forward/reverse power and return loss measurement from 9 kHz to 7 GHz. It supports dc-coupled RF paths, delivers linear-in-dB outputs (VRMSF/VRMSR/VDIFF), and integrates temperature compensation and power-down control. Engineers use it to validate RF power monitoring in wireless transmitters, network analyzers, and broadband test systems.

For engineers reviewing the DC2847A-KIT datasheet, DC2847A-KIT pinout, DC2847A-KIT application, or DC2847A-KIT equivalent, this kit provides a fully assembled, characterized platform with calibrated RF interfaces, on-board decoupling, and documented layout practices - essential for rapid validation of ADL5920-based power and VSWR sensing circuits in production-grade RF signal chains.

Technical Context

The DC2847A-KIT implements the ADL5920 in a 32-lead 5 mm × 5 mm LFCSP package with matched 50 Ω RFIN/RFOUT paths, integrated bidirectional bridge, and dual RMS detectors. It supports dc-coupled operation requiring ±2.5 V supplies (VPOSx = +5 V, VNEGx = −2.5 V) and includes configurable offset compensation via CHPF+/CHPF− and CHPR+/CHPR− networks.

Key interface elements include VRMSF/VRMSR (forward/reverse dBm-proportional voltages), VDIFF+/VDIFF− (differential return loss output referenced to VOCM), and TADJS/TADJI pins for temperature intercept compensation. The board provides accessible test points for all critical analog outputs and bias controls, with CRMSF/CRMSR capacitor pads for adjusting averaging time constants.

Key Specifications

Availability

DC2847A-KIT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for RF test equipment development, wireless transmitter calibration, and broadband inline power monitoring requiring stable component supply and traceable evaluation hardware.

Supply support for DC2847A-KIT 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, headquartered in Norwood, MA.

The DC2847A-KIT belongs to Analog Devices' RF & Microwave Evaluation Platform family, designed to accelerate prototyping and characterization of precision RF power detection, VSWR monitoring, and wideband signal integrity measurement circuits.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the DC2847A-KIT?

The DC2847A-KIT is an evaluation board for the ADL5920 bidirectional RMS and VSWR detector IC. It enables engineers to characterize forward/reverse power measurement, return loss calculation, and temperature-compensated RF signal monitoring from 9 kHz to 7 GHz. The DC2847A-KIT includes SMA-connected RF paths, accessible analog outputs, and configurable bias networks - all aligned with the ADL5920's dc-coupled and ac-coupled operational modes.

Does the DC2847A-KIT support dc-coupled RF operation?

Yes, the DC2847A-KIT supports dc-coupled RF operation as specified for the ADL5920. This requires applying +5 V to VPOS1/VPOS2/VPOS3 and −2.5 V to VNEG1/VNEG2, with DECL tied to ground. The board's layout preserves dc continuity between RFIN and RFOUT, and its grounding scheme accommodates the exposed pad thermal/electrical requirements defined in the ADL5920 datasheet. The DC2847A-KIT documentation confirms compatibility with this configuration.

Which ADL5920 pins are accessible on the DC2847A-KIT?

The DC2847A-KIT provides test points or solder pads for all critical ADL5920 pins: VRMSF, VRMSR, VDIFF+, VDIFF−, VOCM, VREF, VTEMP, PWDN/TADJS, TADJI, VTGT, CRMSF, CRMSR, CHPR+/CHPR−, CHPF+/CHPF−, and all six GND pins. RFIN and RFOUT connect via SMA jacks. Power pins (VPOS1/2/3, VNEG1/2) are brought out to screw terminals or header pins for external supply connection. No pins are omitted or multiplexed on the DC2847A-KIT.

Can the DC2847A-KIT be used to measure VSWR directly?

Yes - the DC2847A-KIT enables direct VSWR measurement via the ADL5920's differential VDIFF+ and VDIFF− outputs, which produce a voltage proportional to return loss (in dB), convertible to VSWR using standard formulas. The board includes VOCM biasing circuitry and low-impedance routing to preserve common-mode stability. Measured VDIFF response across 9 kHz–7 GHz matches ADL5920 datasheet curves (e.g., Figure 7), confirming calibrated VSWR derivation capability on the DC2847A-KIT.

Is the DC2847A-KIT compatible with automated test systems?

Yes, the DC2847A-KIT is compatible with automated test systems. Its standardized SMA RF interfaces, clearly labeled analog output test points (VRMSF, VRMSR, VDIFF+, etc.), and stable dc power inputs allow integration into ATE environments. The ADL5920's fast enable/disable timing (10 µs/5 µs) and rail-to-rail output drive capability (73 mA sourcing) ensure reliable signal acquisition. The DC2847A-KIT's mechanical dimensions and mounting holes also support fixture-based automation per Analog Devices' evaluation board design standards.