Analog Devices Inc. EVAL-ADF7021-VDB2Z

Overview

EVAL-ADF7021-VDB2Z from Analog Devices is an 868–870 MHz RF evaluation daughter board for the ADF7021-V transceiver IC, featuring integrated TCXO (19.68 MHz), external VCO (1736–1740 MHz), 6 kHz PLL loop bandwidth, and optimized output matching circuitry. It interfaces with the EVAL-ADF70XXMBZ2 mother board to enable full register programming, RF link testing, and ADIismLINK protocol evaluation in sub-GHz ISM band applications.

For engineers reviewing the EVAL-ADF7021-VDB2Z datasheet, EVAL-ADF7021-VDB2Z pinout, EVAL-ADF7021-VDB2Z application, or EVAL-ADF7021-VDB2Z equivalent, this page delivers verified hardware specifications, frequency-band-specific component mapping, daughter-board-to-mother-board interface details, and confirmed compatibility with ADI SRD Design Studio for loop filter optimization and RF performance validation.

Technical Context

The EVAL-ADF7021-VDB2Z implements a low-IF FSK transceiver architecture with 100 kHz IF bandwidth and supports 2FSK/3FSK/4FSK modulation schemes at up to 24 kbps Rx and 4.8 kbps Tx data rates. It integrates a precision 3.0 V LDO regulator (ADP3300ARTZ-3), 19.68 MHz TCXO (TXO812025LJ), and SEV-3V1738AP VCO tuned for 1736–1740 MHz operation.

Hardware-level control is achieved via SPI-connected ADuC847 microcontroller on the EVAL-ADF70XXMBZ2 mother board, enabling register configuration through SDATA/SCLK/SLE/SREAD signals and real-time Tx/Rx data monitoring via TxRxData/TxRxCLK SMA connectors. The board requires separate 3.05–12 V DC power input to its screw terminals and provides analog RSSI, test DAC output, and ADC-based battery voltage/temperature readback functionality.

Key Specifications

Availability

EVAL-ADF7021-VDB2Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for sub-GHz wireless sensor networks, industrial telemetry systems, and regulatory-compliant SRD development requiring stable component supply, traceable sourcing, and long-term evaluation platform continuity.

Supply support for EVAL-ADF7021-VDB2Z 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 semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing technologies for precision measurement and communication systems.

The EVAL-ADF7021-VDB2Z belongs to Analog Devices' SRD (Short Range Device) evaluation platform family, designed specifically to accelerate development of licensed and unlicensed VHF/UHF radio systems operating from 80 MHz to 956 MHz.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the EVAL-ADF7021-VDB2Z in a development workflow?

The EVAL-ADF7021-VDB2Z serves as a frequency-optimized RF daughter board for evaluating the ADF7021-V transceiver IC in the 868–870 MHz band. It must be mounted on the EVAL-ADF70XXMBZ2 mother board to provide power regulation, USB interface, microcontroller-based configuration, and RF test access. Its purpose is to validate transceiver performance-including sensitivity, transmit power, modulation fidelity, and packet error rate-under real-world SRD conditions before custom PCB design.

Which mother board is required to operate the EVAL-ADF7021-VDB2Z?

The EVAL-ADF7021-VDB2Z requires the EVAL-ADF70XXMBZ2 mother board (PCB Rev D or higher) for full functionality. This board supplies regulated 3.3 V to its microcontroller and provides USB-to-SPI bridging via the ADuC847, enabling register programming, real-time data streaming, and ADIismLINK protocol execution. Without the EVAL-ADF70XXMBZ2, the EVAL-ADF7021-VDB2Z cannot be powered, configured, or tested.

Does the EVAL-ADF7021-VDB2Z include an integrated crystal oscillator?

Yes, the EVAL-ADF7021-VDB2Z includes a 19.68 MHz TCXO (TXO812025LJ) with ±2.5 ppm stability over temperature. This low-phase-noise reference clock drives the ADF7021-V's synthesizer and ensures accurate RF channel generation across the 868–870 MHz band. The TCXO is soldered directly onto the daughter board and does not require external loading capacitors.

Can the EVAL-ADF7021-VDB2Z support data rates higher than 4.8 kbps in transmit mode?

Yes, the EVAL-ADF7021-VDB2Z can support higher Tx data rates beyond 4.8 kbps, but only after modifying the onboard PLL loop filter components. The default 6 kHz loop bandwidth is optimized for 4.8 kbps; increasing the data rate requires recalculating and replacing inductors (L1–L5) and capacitors per ADI SRD Design Studio guidance. Unmodified, the board maintains specified performance only up to 4.8 kbps Tx.

How is power delivered to the EVAL-ADF7021-VDB2Z during evaluation?

Power is delivered separately to the EVAL-ADF7021-VDB2Z via its 3-pin terminal block (J3), accepting 3.05–12 V DC input. This powers the onboard ADP3300ARTZ-3 LDO, which generates a precise 3.0 V rail for both the ADF7021-V transceiver and the SEV-3V1738AP VCO. The mother board (EVAL-ADF70XXMBZ2) must be powered independently-typically via USB or external 5–9 V supply-and does not supply power to the daughter board.