Analog Devices Inc. EVAL-ADGM1144SDZ

Overview

EVAL-ADGM1144SDZ from Analog Devices is an evaluation board for the ADGM1144 - a 0 Hz to 18 GHz, single-pole four-throw (SP4T) MEMS RF switch in a 24-lead LGA package. It supports parallel and SPI control, delivers −1.7 dB insertion loss at 16 GHz, 73 dBm IIP3, and 200 µs switching time, enabling precise RF path selection in ATE load boards and high-frequency test instrumentation.

For engineers reviewing the EVAL-ADGM1144SDZ datasheet, EVAL-ADGM1144SDZ pinout, EVAL-ADGM1144SDZ application, or EVAL-ADGM1144SDZ equivalent, this page provides verified hardware interface details, RF performance validation guidance, layout best practices for 18 GHz operation, and companion device integration notes for MEMS switch evaluation.

Technical Context

The EVAL-ADGM1144SDZ implements full RF characterization of the ADGM1144 SP4T MEMS switch, including calibrated 50 Ω RF paths from RFC to RF1–RF4, integrated 3.3 V LDO regulation, and dual-mode digital control (parallel logic or SPI). It incorporates proper RF grounding with separate AGND/RFGND planes tied via multiple vias and features solder mask defined 50 Ω microstrip traces optimized for DC–18 GHz operation.

Board-level design includes on-board decoupling (100 nF + 10 µF per supply rail), external VCP drive support, and configurable EXTD_EN routing to validate internal oscillator feedthrough mitigation. The layout integrates 10 MΩ shunt resistors at each RF node to eliminate floating conditions - matching the ADGM1144's integrated passive architecture.

Key Specifications

Availability

EVAL-ADGM1144SDZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automatic test equipment (ATE) development, RF instrumentation prototyping, and high-speed digital test system integration requiring stable component supply and documented MEMS switch evaluation capability.

Supply support for EVAL-ADGM1144SDZ 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 RF ICs, serving precision instrumentation, communications, and industrial markets with signal chain solutions.

The EVAL-ADGM1144SDZ belongs to Analog Devices' MEMS Switch Evaluation Platform family, designed specifically to accelerate validation of ultra-wideband MEMS switches in RF test, ATE, and high-fidelity signal routing applications.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the EVAL-ADGM1144SDZ?

The EVAL-ADGM1144SDZ is a dedicated evaluation board for the ADGM1144 MEMS SP4T RF switch. It provides complete hardware implementation - including SMA RF ports, dual digital interfaces (parallel and SPI), regulated 3.3 V power, and proper RF grounding - to validate the ADGM1144's DC–18 GHz performance, switching linearity, and reliability under real-world test conditions.

Does the EVAL-ADGM1144SDZ support both parallel and SPI control of the ADGM1144?

Yes, the EVAL-ADGM1144SDZ fully supports both control modes. It routes all four INx pins (IN1–IN4), PIN/SPI, CS, SCLK, SDI, and SDO with accessible test points and jumper options. The board allows seamless transition between parallel logic control (via logic-level signals) and SPI mode (up to 10 MHz), matching the ADGM1144's native dual-interface capability as specified in its Rev. 0 datasheet.

How is RF integrity maintained on the EVAL-ADGM1144SDZ up to 18 GHz?

The EVAL-ADGM1144SDZ maintains RF integrity through 50 Ω impedance-controlled microstrip routing from each SMA connector to the ADGM1144 LGA pads, strict ground plane separation (AGND/RFGND), dense thermal via arrays under the exposed pads, and ENIG-finished RF traces. Layout follows Analog Devices' recommended practices for 18 GHz MEMS switch evaluation, minimizing discontinuities that could degrade insertion loss or isolation.

Can the EVAL-ADGM1144SDZ be used to evaluate hot-switching behavior of the ADGM1144?

Yes - the EVAL-ADGM1144SDZ enables hot-switching validation by supporting simultaneous RF signal injection (via SMA ports) and precise timing-controlled digital actuation. Its layout isolates digital noise from RF paths, and the board includes provisions to monitor VCP voltage and switching transients, allowing measurement of hot-switching lifetime limits (e.g., 20 × 10³ actuations at 20 dBm) as defined in the ADGM1144 datasheet.

What companion components are recommended when using the EVAL-ADGM1144SDZ?

Analog Devices recommends pairing the EVAL-ADGM1144SDZ with the AD5522 quad PMU for precision DC biasing during RF characterization, and with low-noise LDOs like the ADP7142 (already onboard) or LT3045-1 for clean supply rails. For multi-channel systems, the ADGM1304 or ADGM1004 MEMS switches may be evaluated alongside the ADGM1144 using identical board-level practices validated on the EVAL-ADGM1144SDZ.