Analog Devices Inc. EVAL-ADG901EBZ

Overview

EVAL-ADG901EBZ from Analog Devices is an evaluation board designed specifically for the ADG901 single-pole single-throw (SPST) RF switch, supporting DC to 1 GHz operation with 50 Ω impedance matching, CMOS/LVTTL-compatible control inputs (1.65 V to 2.75 V VDD), and calibrated RF through-path for insertion loss reference. It enables rapid characterization of high-isolation, low-insertion-loss switching in RF front-end designs.

For engineers reviewing the EVAL-ADG901EBZ datasheet, EVAL-ADG901EBZ pinout, EVAL-ADG901EBZ application, or EVAL-ADG901EBZ equivalent, this board provides a ready-to-use platform to validate ADG901 performance under real-world RF test conditions-including S-parameter measurement, switching speed verification, and power-handling assessment-without custom PCB development.

Technical Context

The EVAL-ADG901EBZ implements a four-layer FR4 PCB (ε_r ≈ 4.3, thickness 0.062″) with coplanar waveguide transmission lines (trace width 0.052″, ground clearance 0.030″) to maintain 50 Ω impedance across J1 (RF1 input), J2 (RF2 output), and J4–J5 (calibration through-path). Ground planes on Layers 2 and 3 ensure RF return path integrity.

It integrates a populated ADG901/ADG902/ADG918/ADG919 device (U1), 10 μF tantalum (C4) and dual 10 pF ceramic (C1, C2) decoupling capacitors, SMA end-launch connectors (J1–J7), and unpopulated footprints for user-modified filtering or biasing. Control logic follows Table 1: CTRL = 1 enables RF1→RF2 path; CTRL = 0 isolates RF1 from RF2.

Key Specifications

Availability

EVAL-ADG901EBZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for RF front-end validation, wireless transceiver prototyping, and microwave test fixture development requiring stable component supply and traceable evaluation hardware.

Supply support for EVAL-ADG901EBZ 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 RF technologies for precision signal processing applications.

EVAL-ADG901EBZ belongs to Analog Devices' RF & Microwave Evaluation Platform family, engineered to accelerate design-in of wideband CMOS switches in communications infrastructure, test equipment, and defense electronics.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the EVAL-ADG901EBZ evaluation board?

The EVAL-ADG901EBZ evaluation board is a dedicated hardware platform for characterizing the ADG901 SPST RF switch. It provides calibrated 50 Ω signal paths, proper decoupling, and standardized SMA interfaces to measure insertion loss, isolation, and switching speed. The board does not operate standalone-it requires external RF test equipment and a DC power supply to drive the ADG901 device mounted on U1.

Which RF switch variants does the EVAL-ADG901EBZ support besides the ADG901?

The EVAL-ADG901EBZ supports the ADG902 (pin-compatible SPST variant), ADG918, and ADG919 (SPDT variants) as documented in UG-676 Rev. B. All four devices share the same footprint and are mounted at U1 position. Switching behavior differs per variant: ADG901/ADG902 use a single CTRL line for RF1↔RF2 path control, while ADG918/ADG919 route between RFC and RF1/RF2 based on CTRL state.

Does the EVAL-ADG901EBZ include the ADG901 IC, or must it be purchased separately?

The EVAL-ADG901EBZ includes the ADG901 IC pre-mounted at U1, as confirmed in the Bill of Materials (Table 3) of UG-676. No additional purchase of the ADG901 die or package is required to begin evaluation. The board ships fully assembled with all passive components, SMA connectors, and the target switch installed and tested.

What are the key PCB design features that ensure RF measurement accuracy on the EVAL-ADG901EBZ?

The EVAL-ADG901EBZ uses a four-layer FR4 stack-up with dedicated ground planes (Layers 2 and 3) and precisely modeled coplanar waveguides (0.052″ trace, 0.030″ ground clearance) to maintain 50 Ω impedance from J1 to J2. The J4–J5 calibration through-path allows users to measure and subtract PCB loss from raw S-parameter data, improving measurement fidelity for the ADG901 device itself.

Can the EVAL-ADG901EBZ be used with standard network analyzers without modification?

Yes-the EVAL-ADG901EBZ is fully compatible with standard vector network analyzers (VNAs) via its SMA end-launch connectors (J1, J2, J4, J5). J1 serves as RF input, J2 as RF output for ADG901 testing; J4 and J5 form a direct-through reference path. No adapter or firmware update is needed. Users only require appropriate DC bias (VDD and CTRL) and VNA calibration (SOLT or TRL) before measurement.