Analog Devices Inc. EVAL01-HMCAD1101

Overview

EVAL01-HMCAD1101 from Analog Devices (formerly Hittite Microwave) is a high-frequency evaluation board designed to characterize the HMCAD1101 12-bit, 1 GSPS analog-to-digital converter (ADC) for RF sampling applications in radar and communications systems. It supports full-speed data capture, JESD204B interface validation, and clock jitter sensitivity testing up to 4 GHz input.

For engineers reviewing the EVAL01-HMCAD1101 datasheet, EVAL01-HMCAD1101 pinout, EVAL01-HMCAD1101 application, or EVAL01-HMCAD1101 equivalent, this board enables rapid prototyping of wideband SDR, electronic warfare receivers, and phased-array radar front-ends with validated signal integrity and timing alignment.

Technical Context

The EVAL01-HMCAD1101 implements a complete reference design around the HMCAD1101 ADC, featuring a low-phase-noise clock distribution network using an on-board HMC987LP5E buffer and ultra-low-jitter HMC1033LP6GE synthesizer. It includes differential analog input matching to 50 Ω with transformer-coupled and balun-based paths.

Signal acquisition is supported via two independent JESD204B lanes (subclass 1), FPGA-controlled SPI configuration (Xilinx Kintex-7 XC7K325T), and real-time data streaming over high-speed FMC+ connector. Power sequencing and monitoring are fully managed by integrated PMICs and ADC-specific LDOs.

Key Specifications

Availability

EVAL01-HMCAD1101 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for radar receiver development, electronic warfare signal intelligence (SIGINT), and 5G mmWave test equipment requiring stable component supply and full production traceability.

Supply support for EVAL01-HMCAD1101 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. (ADI) is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing technologies, acquired Hittite Microwave in 2014 to strengthen its RF and microwave portfolio.

The EVAL01-HMCAD1101 belongs to ADI's high-speed data converter evaluation platform family, engineered specifically for validating RF-sampling ADCs in defense, aerospace, and instrumentation applications where wide instantaneous bandwidth and deterministic timing are critical.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the EVAL01-HMCAD1101 evaluation board?

The EVAL01-HMCAD1101 evaluation board is a turnkey hardware platform for evaluating the HMCAD1101 12-bit, 1 GSPS RF-sampling ADC. It enables full characterization of dynamic performance (SNR, SFDR), JESD204B link reliability, clock jitter sensitivity, and analog input response up to 4 GHz. The EVAL01-HMCAD1101 includes all necessary clocking, power, FPGA interface, and signal routing to eliminate custom design effort during early system validation.

Does the EVAL01-HMCAD1101 support JESD204B subclass 1 deterministic latency?

Yes, the EVAL01-HMCAD1101 supports JESD204B subclass 1 operation with deterministic latency through synchronized SYSREF distribution, FPGA-controlled lane alignment, and calibrated delay paths. The onboard Xilinx Kintex-7 FPGA implements the required JESD204B link layer with real-time SYNC~ and SYSREF handling. This capability is verified and documented for the EVAL01-HMCAD1101 in ADI's official HMCAD1101 evaluation user guide.

What clock sources are integrated on the EVAL01-HMCAD1101?

The EVAL01-HMCAD1101 integrates two key clock components: the HMC1033LP6GE wideband synthesizer (10 MHz–3.2 GHz) for ultra-low-jitter sampling clock generation, and the HMC987LP5E clock buffer for clean fanout to the HMCAD1101 ADC and FPGA. Both devices are configured via SPI from the FPGA, and their settings are stored in non-volatile memory on the EVAL01-HMCAD1101 board.

Can the EVAL01-HMCAD1101 be used with other ADCs besides the HMCAD1101?

No - the EVAL01-HMCAD1101 is specifically designed and optimized for the HMCAD1101 12-bit, 1 GSPS ADC. Its analog input network, power delivery, clock tree, PCB stack-up, and FPGA firmware are all tailored to that device's electrical, thermal, and timing requirements. Using it with other ADCs is not supported, and no pin compatibility or firmware reconfiguration capability exists for alternate parts on the EVAL01-HMCAD1101.

Is the EVAL01-HMCAD1101 qualified for military or space applications?

The EVAL01-HMCAD1101 evaluation board itself is not a screened or qualified component; however, it interfaces directly with the HMCAD1101, which is offered in military-grade (MIL-PRF-38535 Class K/S) and space-qualified variants. The EVAL01-HMCAD1101 design follows Hittite/ADI's high-reliability practices - including controlled impedance routing, hermetic-compatible connectors, and traceable component sourcing - making it suitable for use in development environments supporting defense and space programs.