As systems become more complex with multiple channels interfacing with digital systems in an RF system on  chip (SoC), it is important to manage the design complexity while meeting aggressive design schedules. This drives requirements for small, modular RF front-end chains that can be designed once and copied across multiple channels, all while providing optimal performance and signal conditions for each channel. This is important given the relatively high cost of these RF SoCs. Optimizing the RF chains’ performance will reduce the number of relatively expensive bits dedicated to error correction.

The ADM-8007 from Marki Microwave addresses this need in the RF signal chain. It is a universal LO driver that supports a frequency of operation from 2 to 40 GHz. In current systems, it is difficult to get more than 0 dBm from a passive multiplier, phase-lock loop or synthesizer. This problem is exacerbated by multiple channels, as the splitter function results in additional losses. Typically, mixers operate from 15 to 20 dBm of drive into their LO port for optimal performance and the ADM-8007 can easily support this thanks to its two-stage design. The ADM-8007 provides 23 dB of gain and a Psat of 23 dB. This means it can drive all types of mixers with different diode designs, depending on the P1dB, IP3 and spur suppression requirements of the application, with an input power of 0 to +5 dBm.

To increase its ease of use, the amplifier operates from a single 5 V supply, has internal biasing and requires no sequencing to operate. Ideal for mobile test and measurement equipment, radar, satcom and 5G transceivers, it is available as a standard 4 x 4 QFN package or in a connectorized form for laboratory testing purposes.