Skyworks Solutions Inc. EVB7230

Overview

EVB7230 from Skyworks Solutions is an evaluation board designed to characterize the AWB7230 3.40–3.80 GHz small-cell power amplifier module. It supports WiMAX/LTE uplink testing with +29 dBm output, 2.5% EVM at OFDMA, and integrated power detector and step attenuator functionality. The board enables rapid validation of RF performance in picocell, femtocell, and CPE designs.

For engineers reviewing the EVB7230 datasheet, EVB7230 pinout, EVB7230 application, or EVB7230 equivalent, this page delivers verified layout guidance, supply decoupling recommendations, thermal management practices, TVS protection options (SM05 T1G/SMJ5.0A), and functional interface mapping for RFIN, RFOUT, VENB, VATTN, and VDET signals.

Technical Context

The EVB7230 implements a complete reference design for the AWB7230 PA module, including matched 50 Ω input/output networks, dual-stage DC blocking and bypassing (0.1 µF + 10 µF + 100 µF per supply rail), and dedicated detector load (100 kΩ) with 0.1 µF AC coupling. It incorporates TVS diodes for transient protection on VCC and control lines.

It supports shutdown mode via logic-low VENB (0–0.5 V), adjustable gain control via VATTN (0–3.7 V), and real-time output power monitoring via VDET (0.9–1.75 V at +29 dBm). The board is optimized for operation across –40 °C to +85 °C case temperature with MSL4-compliant handling.

Key Specifications

Availability

EVB7230 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for picocell base station development, femtocell RF validation, and customer premises equipment (CPE) prototyping requiring stable component supply and repeatable test platform access.

Supply support for EVB7230 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

Skyworks Solutions is a global semiconductor company specializing in analog and mixed-signal connectivity solutions for wireless infrastructure, mobile, automotive, and IoT applications.

The EVB7230 belongs to Skyworks' small-cell infrastructure evaluation platform family, engineered to accelerate time-to-test for high-efficiency, high-linearity RF power amplifiers operating in licensed 3.4–3.8 GHz spectrum bands.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the EVB7230?

The EVB7230 is an evaluation board specifically built to test and validate the RF performance of the AWB7230 power amplifier module. It provides fully implemented biasing, matching, decoupling, and detection circuitry - enabling engineers to measure gain, EVM, efficiency, and spectral mask compliance without custom PCB development. The EVB7230 directly supports characterization of the AWB7230 under real-world operating conditions.

Does the EVB7230 include TVS protection, and if so, what components are used?

Yes, the EVB7230 includes transient voltage suppression on critical supply and control lines. Per the schematic (Figure 3), SM05 T1G or SMJ5.0A TVS diodes are specified for VCC and control signal protection. These devices safeguard the AWB7230 module against voltage spikes during lab testing or system integration, aligning with Skyworks' recommendation for applications exposed to supply transients.

How is RF input and output interfaced on the EVB7230?

The EVB7230 uses SMA connectors for both RF input (RFIN) and RF output (RFOUT), each routed as controlled-impedance 50 Ω microstrip traces matched to the AWB7230's internal network. The board implements DC blocking capacitors (1000 pF), proper grounding, and minimal stub length to preserve signal integrity across the 3.40–3.80 GHz band - ensuring accurate measurement of the AWB7230's +29 dBm output and –15 dB input return loss.

What power supply requirements does the EVB7230 support for the AWB7230 module?

The EVB7230 supports the AWB7230's recommended operating conditions: +3.3 V to +4.65 V DC on VCC1 and VCC2 pins, with typical operation at +4.5 V. It provides multi-stage decoupling (0.1 µF, 10 µF, and 100 µF) per rail to suppress noise and maintain stability under dynamic load. Total quiescent current draw is ~300 mA, rising to ~1080 mA at full +29 dBm output.

Can the EVB7230 be used to evaluate the AWB7230's power detector and attenuator functions?

Yes - the EVB7230 fully exposes and supports both features. VDET is brought out to a test point with a 100 kΩ load resistor and 0.1 µF AC coupling, delivering 0.9–1.75 V corresponding to +29 dBm output. VATTN is accessible via header pin with 0–3.7 V control range, enabling precise 17–24 dB attenuation adjustment. These interfaces allow direct oscilloscope or multimeter verification of detector linearity and attenuator step response.