The ADL5960 from Analog Devices is a Vector Network Analyzer (VNA) Front-End that operates from 10 MHz to 20 GHz. It is designed to simplify the clocking design and improve the measurement performance of VNAs. This front-end integrates a resistive bidirectional bridge, mixers, programmable IF amplifiers and filters, and a flexible LO interface. It supports several LO interface configurations to improve synchronization across multiple devices, IF mixers that allow RF and LO interfaces to share the same clock source, and optimizes the dynamic range of VNAs by controlling bandwidth and gain of IF filters and amplifiers.
The ADL5960 VNA’s IF amplifiers also have an adjustable common-mode level, sufficient drive capability, and a wide output voltage swing that allow for direct interfacing with a wide range of ADCs. The bidirectional bridge provides a directivity of 24.1 dB and an insertion loss of 1.1 dB at 1 GHz, while the IF signal path provides a conversion gain of -21.4 dB in 6 dB steps with a noise figure of 48.2 dB. This front-end uses a built-in SPI interface for adjusting critical filter/amplifier parameters and temperature readings. It requires a 5 V DC supply and draws 225 mA of current. It is available in an LGA package measuring 3 x 4 mm and is ideal for multi-port VNAs, S-parameter and inline RF power measurements, reflectometers, materials analysis, and ATE applications.
