DC2153A - Demo Manual

DEMO MANUAL DC2153A
LTC6430-15
300MHz to 1700MHz Differential
ADC Driver/IF/RF Amplifier
Description
Demonstration circuit 2153A features the LTC6430-15
differential ADC/IF Amplifier. The LTC6430-15 has a power
gain of 15.2dB and is part of the LTC6430-YY amplifier
series.
has 100Ω differential input and output impedances, so
the demo circuit uses transformers to convert to 50Ω
single-ended so that it can be easily evaluated with most
RF test equipment.
The DC2153A demo board supports the LTC6430-YY amplifier family. The DC2153A demo board is optimized for the
frequency range from 300MHz to 1700MHz and utilizes a
minimum of passive external components to configure the
amplifier for this application. Because The LTC6430-15
Design files for this circuit board are available at
http://www.linear.com/demo/DC2153A
L, LT, LTC, LTM, Linear Technology and the Linear logo are registered trademarks of Linear
Technology Corporation. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
VCC
9, 22
BIAS AND TEMPERATURE
COMPENSATION
24
+IN
15dB
GAIN
+OUT
T_DIODE
7
–IN
15dB
GAIN
–OUT
18
16
13
GND
8, 14, 17, 23 AND PADDLE 25
DC2153a F01
Figure 1. LTC6430-15 Device Block Diagram
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DEMO MANUAL DC2153A
Performance Summary
Table 1. Typical Demo Board Performance Summary TA = 25°C, VCC = 5V
SYMBOL
PARAMETER
CONDITIONS
UNITS
Power Supply
VCC
Operating Supply Range
All VCC Pins Plus ±OUT
4.75V to 5.25V
ICC
Current Consumption
Total Current
165mA
FREQUENCY
(MHz)
POWER GAIN
|S21| (dB)
OUTPUT
THIRD-ORDER
INTERCEPT
POINT(1) (dBm)
OUTPUT
THIRD-ORDER
INTERMODULATION
POINT(1) (dBc)
SECOND
HARMONIC
DISTORTION(2, 3)
(dBc)
THIRD
HARMONIC
DISTORTION(2, 3)
(dBc)
OUTPUT 1dB
COMPRESSION
POINT (dBm)
NOISE
FIGURE(4)
(dB)
300
11.8
41.6
–79.1
–69.2
–72.4
21.3
4.2
400
12.2
41.9
–79.8
–64.4
–69.3
21.6
4.0
500
12.6
42.1
–80.1
–65.5
–71.6
22.2
4.2
600
12.8
43.6
–83.1
–64.9
–68.7
22.3
4.5
700
13.0
45.0
–86.1
–65.3
–71.5
22.6
4.7
800
13.0
47.2
–90.4
–60.8
–73.1
22.4
4.8
900
12.9
46.8
–89.6
–59.1
–77.1
22.0
4.8
1000
12.8
47.1
–90.2
–58.6
–71.7
21.6
5.1
1100
12.7
46.2
–88.4
–57.9
–67.1
21.6
5.3
1200
12.5
45.6
–87.2
–56.2
–65.6
21.4
5.7
1300
12.4
43.7
–83.3
–56.6
–65.3
21.1
5.9
1400
12.3
43.3
–82.6
–66.7
–63.9
20.8
6.2
1500
12.1
40.0
–76.1
–60.5
–62.2
20.4
6.4
1600
11.9
37.2
–70.3
–56.3
–63.7
20.0
6.6
1700
11.6
34.9
–65.9
–56.1
–66.7
19.7
6.8
Notes: All figures are referenced to J1 (Input Port) and J4 (Output Port).
1. Two-tone test conditions: Output power level = 2dBm/tone, tone spacing = 1MHz.
2. Single-tone test conditions: Output power level = 6dBm.
3. Degraded performance results are due to imbalance from the balun transformers.
4. Small signal noise figure.
18
0
16
–4
12
|S21| (dB)
–8
|S21|
–12
|S11|
10
8
–16
–20
|S22|
|S12|
6
–24
4
–28
2
–32
0
0
400
800
1200
FREQUENCY (MHz)
1600
|S11|, |S12|, |S22|, (dB)
14
–36
2000
DC2153a F02
Figure 2. Demo Board S-Parameters
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2
DEMO MANUAL DC2153A
OPERATION
Demo circuit 2153A is a high linearity, fixed gain amplifier.
It is designed for ease of use. The LTC6430-15 is internally
matched to 100Ω differential source and load impedances
from 20MHz to 1400MHz. Due to the unpopularity of
100Ω differential test equipment, transformers have been
added to convert these impedances to single-ended 50Ω.
The frequency range of the circuit is limited by the balun
transformers. Hence, this demo board optimizes the amplifier performance over the frequency range from 300MHz
to 1700MHz. Figure 2 shows the two port DC2153A’s
S-parameters.
The demo circuit’s schematic shows a minimum requirement of passive support components. Due to the imbalance
from the input and output transformers, the harmonic
distortion performance is slightly degraded. The shunt
capacitors (C8, C9, C25 and C6) help to balance the input
and output signals.
The input and output DC blocking capacitors (C5, C7, C10
and C12) are required because this device is internally
DC-biased for optimal operation. The frequency appropriate RF chokes (L2 and L3) and the decoupling capacitors
(C2, C3, C15 and C16) provide the proper DC bias to the
RF ±OUT ports. A single 5V supply is required for the VCC
pins on the device.
L1, L4, C6 and C13 are optional components. They are for
additional matching when further optimization to a lower
or wider frequency range applications is required.
A pair of stability networks have been added. They consist
of a 62pF capacitor (C4 and C11) and 348Ω resistor (R1
and R5) in parallel at the LTC6430-15 input network to
ensure low frequency stability.
The T_DIODE pin (Turret E1) can be forward biased to
ground with 1mA of current. The measured voltage will
be an indicator of the chip junction temperature (TJ).
There is an optional circuit at the upper section of the
demo board. This extra circuit can be used to calibrate for
the insertion loss of the demo board’s input and output
components.
Please note that a number of DNC pins are connected on
the demo board. These connections are not necessary for
normal operation, however, failure to float these pins may
impair the operation of the device.
Table 2 shows the function of each input and output on
the board.
Table 2. DC2153A Board I/O Descriptions
CONNECTOR
FUNCTION
J1 (IN)
Single-ended input. Impedance matched to 50Ω.
Drive from a 50Ω network analyzer or signal source.
J4 (OUT)
Single-ended output. Impedance matched to 50Ω.
Drives a 50Ω network analyzer or spectrum analyzer.
E1 (T_DIODE)
The measured voltage will be an indicator of the chip
junction temperature.
E2 (VCC)
Positive supply voltage source.
E3 (GND)
Supply ground.
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3
DEMO MANUAL DC2153A
Additional Information
As with any RF device, minimizing ground inductance is
critical. Care should be taken during the board layout when
using these exposed pad packages. A maximum of smalldiameter vias should be placed underneath the exposed
ground pad. This will ensure a good RF ground and low
thermal impedance. Maximizing the copper ground plane
will also improve heat spreading and lower the inductance
to ground. It is a good idea to cover the via holes with
solder mask on the back side of the PCB to prevent solder
from wicking away from the critical PCB to the exposed
pad interface.
The DC2153A is a wide bandwidth demo board, but it is not
intended for operation down to DC. The lower frequency
cutoff is limited by on-chip matching elements.
Table 3 shows the LTC643X-YY amplifier series and its
associated demo boards. Each demo board lists the typical
working frequency range and the input and output impedance of the amplifiers.
Setup Signal Sources and Spectrum Analyzer
The LTC6430-15 is an amplifier with high linearity performance. Therefore, the output intermodulation products are
very low. Even using high dynamic range test equipment,
third-order intercept (IP3) measurements can drive test
setups to their limits. Consequently, accurate measurement of IP3 for a low distortion IC such as the LTC6430-15
requires certain precautions to be observed in the test
setup as well as the testing procedure.
Setup Signal Sources
Figure 3 shows a proposed IP3 test setup. This setup has
low phase noise, good reverse isolation, high dynamic
range, sufficient harmonic filtering and wideband impedance matching. The setup is outlined below:
a.High performance signal generators one and two
(HP8644A) are used. These suggested generators have
low harmonic distortion and very low phase noise.
b.High linearity amplifiers are used to improve the reverse
isolation. This prevents cross talk between the two signal
generators and provides higher output power.
c.A low pass filter is used to suppress the harmonic content
from interfering with the test signal. Note that second
order inputs can mix with the fundamental frequency
to form intermodulation (IM) products of their own. We
suggest filtering the harmonics to –50dBc or better.
d.The signal combiner from mini-circuits (ADP-2-9)
combines the two isolated input signals. This combiner
has a typical isolation of 27dB. For improved VSWR and
isolation, the H-9 signal combiner from MA/COM is an
alternative which features >40dB isolation and a wider
frequency range. Passive devices (e.g. combiners) with
magnetic elements can contribute nonlinearity to the
signal chain and should be used cautiously.
e.The attenuator pads on all three ports of the signal
combiner will further support isolation of the two input
signal sources. They also reduce reflections and promote
maximum power transfer with wideband impedance
matching.
Table 3. The LTC643X-YY Amplifier Family and Corresponding Application Demo Boards
DEMO BOARD
NUMBER
FREQUENCY RANGE
(MHz)
NOTES/
APPLICATIONS
BOARD’S IN/OUT
IMPEDANCE
AMPLIFIER
AMPLIFIER’S
IMPEDANCE
DC1774A-A
50 to 350
Low Frequency
50Ω
LTC6430-15
Differential 100Ω
DC1774A-B
400 to 1000
Mid Frequency
50Ω
LTC6430-15
Differential 100Ω
DC1774A-C
100 to 1200
Wide Frequency
50Ω
LTC6431-15
Single-Ended 50Ω
DC2032A
50 to 1000
Cable Infrastructure
75Ω
LTC6430-15
Differential 100Ω
DC2077A
100 to 1200
Wide Frequency
50Ω
LTC6431-20
Single-Ended 50Ω
DC2153A
300 to 1700
High Frequency
50Ω
LTC6430-15
Differential 100Ω
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DEMO MANUAL DC2153A
Additional Information
Setup the Spectrum Analyzer
a.Adjust the spectrum analyzer for maximum possible
resolution of the intermodulation products’ amplitude
in dBc. A narrower resolution bandwidth will take a
longer time to sweep.
b.Optimize the dynamic range of the spectrum analyzer
by adjusting the input attenuation. First increase the
spectrum analyzer’s input attenuation (normally in
steps of 5dB or 10dB). If the IM product levels decrease
when the input attenuation is increased, then the input
power level is too high for the spectrum analyzer to
make a valid measurement. Most likely, the spectrum
analyzer’s 1st mixer was overloaded and producing its
own IM products. If the IM reading holds constant with
increased input attenuation, then a sufficient amount
of attenuation was present. Adding too much attenuation will bury the intended IM signal in the noise floor.
Therefore, select just enough attenuation to achieve a
stable and valid measurement.
c.In order to achieve this valid measurement result, the
test system must have lower total distortion than the
DUT’s intermodulation. For example, to measure a
47dBm OIP3, the measured intermodulation products
will be –90dBc below an –13dBm/tone input level and
the test system must have intermodulation products
approximately –96dBc or better. For best results, the
IM products and noise floor should measure at least
–100dBc before connecting the DUT.
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DEMO MANUAL DC2153A
Quick Start Procedure
Demo circuit 2153A can be set up to evaluate the performance of the LTC6430-15. Refer to Figure 3 for proper
equipment connections and follow the procedure below.
Two-Tone Measurement
Connect all test equipment as suggested in Figure 3.
1.The power labels of VCC 4.75V to 5.25V and GND directly correspond to the power supply. Typical current
consumption of the LTC6430-15 is about 165mA.
2.Apply two independent signals f1 and f2 from signal
generator 1 and signal generator 2 at 1000MHz and
1001MHz, while setting the amplitude to –13dBm/tone
at the demo board input (J1).
3.Monitor the output tone level on the spectrum analyzer.
Adjust the signal generator levels such that the output
power measures 2dBm/tone at the amplifier output J2,
after correcting for external cable losses and attenuations.
4.Change the spectrum analyzer’s center frequency and
observe the two IM3 tones at 1MHz below and above
the input frequencies. The frequencies of IM3_LOW and
IM3_HIGH are 999 MHz and 1002 MHz, respectively. The
measurement levels should be approximately –90dBc;
47dBm is typical OIP3 performance for the LTC6430-15
at 1000MHz.
The OIP3 calculation is:
OIP3 = POUT + ∆ IMD3/2
Where:
POUT is the lower output signal power of the fundamental
products.
∆ IMD3 = POUT – PIM3; PIM3 is the higher third-order
intermodulation product.
Single-Tone Measurement
5.Continue with step 4 above, turn off one signal source
to measure gain and harmonic distortions.
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DEMO MANUAL DC2153A
Quick Start Procedure
(HP8644A)
SIGNAL
GENERATOR 1
AMPLIFIER
(MINI-CIRCUITS, ZRL-3500 OR EQUIVALENT)
LOW PASS FILTER
6dB ATTENUATION PAD
(OPTIONAL)
3dB ATTENUATION PAD
COMBINER
MINI-CIRCUITS
ADP-2-9
(OPTIONAL)
20dB ATTENUATION PAD
6dB ATTENUATION PAD
ROHDE & SCHWARZ
FSEM30
SPECTRUM
ANALYZER
LOW PASS FILTER
(MINI-CIRCUITS, ZRL-3500 OR EQUIVALENT)
COAXIAL CABLE
AMPLIFIER
SIGNAL
GENERATOR 2
VCC = 4.75V TO 5.25V
(HP8644A)
DC POWER SUPPLY
GND
V+
DC2153a F03
Figure 3. Proper Equipment Setup for IP3 Measurement
dc2153af
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DEMO MANUAL DC2153A
Parts List
ITEM
QTY
REFERENCE
PART DESCRIPTION
MANUFACTURER/PART NUMBER
CAP, X7R, 1000pF, 50V 5%, 0402
AVX, 04025C102JAT2A
AVX, 06035C102JAT2A
Required Circuit Components
1
2
C1, C14
2
6
C2, C5, C7, C10, C12, C15 CAP, X7R, 1000pF, 50V 5%, 0603
3
0
C18, C19, C23, C24
CAP, 0603, OPT
4
2
C3, C16
CAP, X5R, 0.1µF, 10V, 10%, 0603
AVX, 0603ZD104KAT2A
AVX, 04023A620JAT
5
2
C4, C11
CAP, NPO, 62pF, 25V, 5%, 0402
6
0
C17, C22
CAP, 0402, OPT
7
2
C6, C13
CAP, OPT, 0603
8
4
C8, C9, C25, C26,
CAP, COG, 0.5pF, ±0.1pF 50V, 0402
9
0
C20, C21, C27, C28
CAP, 0402, OPT
10
3
E1 TO E3
TESTPOINT, TURRET, 0.093"
MILL-MAX, 2501-2-00-80-00-00-07-0
11
2
J1, J4
CONN, SMA 50Ω EDGE-LAUNCH
E.F. JOHNSON, 142-0701-851
12
0
J2, J3, J5, J6
CONN, SMA 50Ω EDGE-LAUNCH, OPT
13
2
L1, L4
RES, CHIP, 0Ω, 0603
VISHAY, CRCW06030000Z0ED
14
2
L2, L3
INDUCTOR, CHIP, 560nH, 5%, 0603LS-1608
COILCRAFT, 0603LS-561XJLB
VISHAY, CRCW0402348RFKED
15
2
R1, R5
RES, CHIP, 348, 1%, 0402
16
0
R6, R7
RES, 0402 OPT
17
2
R2, R4
RES, CHIP, 0Ω, 0603
18
1
R3
RES, 0402 OPT
19
2
T1, T2
TRANS-RF-TCM2-43X+, CASE STYLE DB1627
20
0
T3, T4
TRANS-RF-TCM2-43X+, CASE STYLE DB1627, OPT
21
1
U1
BALANCED AMPLIFIER LTC6430AIUF-15,
QFN24UF-4X4
AVX, 04025A0R7BAT2A
VISHAY, CRCW06030000Z0ED
MINI-CIRCUITS, TCM2-43X+
LINEAR TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION,
LTC6430AIUF-15
dc2153af
8
Information furnished by Linear Technology Corporation is believed to be accurate and reliable.
However, no responsibility is assumed for its use. Linear Technology Corporation makes no representation that the interconnection of its circuits as described herein will not infringe on existing patent rights.
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B
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TECHNOLOGY
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D
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D
DEMO MANUAL DC2153A
Schematic Diagram
dc2153af
9
DEMO MANUAL DC2153A
DEMONSTRATION BOARD IMPORTANT NOTICE
Linear Technology Corporation (LTC) provides the enclosed product(s) under the following AS IS conditions:
This demonstration board (DEMO BOARD) kit being sold or provided by Linear Technology is intended for use for ENGINEERING DEVELOPMENT
OR EVALUATION PURPOSES ONLY and is not provided by LTC for commercial use. As such, the DEMO BOARD herein may not be complete
in terms of required design-, marketing-, and/or manufacturing-related protective considerations, including but not limited to product safety
measures typically found in finished commercial goods. As a prototype, this product does not fall within the scope of the European Union
directive on electromagnetic compatibility and therefore may or may not meet the technical requirements of the directive, or other regulations.
If this evaluation kit does not meet the specifications recited in the DEMO BOARD manual the kit may be returned within 30 days from the date
of delivery for a full refund. THE FOREGOING WARRANTY IS THE EXCLUSIVE WARRANTY MADE BY THE SELLER TO BUYER AND IS IN LIEU
OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED, IMPLIED, OR STATUTORY, INCLUDING ANY WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS
FOR ANY PARTICULAR PURPOSE. EXCEPT TO THE EXTENT OF THIS INDEMNITY, NEITHER PARTY SHALL BE LIABLE TO THE OTHER FOR
ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES.
The user assumes all responsibility and liability for proper and safe handling of the goods. Further, the user releases LTC from all claims
arising from the handling or use of the goods. Due to the open construction of the product, it is the user’s responsibility to take any and all
appropriate precautions with regard to electrostatic discharge. Also be aware that the products herein may not be regulatory compliant or
agency certified (FCC, UL, CE, etc.).
No License is granted under any patent right or other intellectual property whatsoever. LTC assumes no liability for applications assistance,
customer product design, software performance, or infringement of patents or any other intellectual property rights of any kind.
LTC currently services a variety of customers for products around the world, and therefore this transaction is not exclusive.
Please read the DEMO BOARD manual prior to handling the product. Persons handling this product must have electronics training and
observe good laboratory practice standards. Common sense is encouraged.
This notice contains important safety information about temperatures and voltages. For further safety concerns, please contact a LTC application engineer.
Mailing Address:
Linear Technology
1630 McCarthy Blvd.
Milpitas, CA 95035
Copyright © 2004, Linear Technology Corporation
dc2153af
10 Linear Technology Corporation
LT 0414 • PRINTED IN USA
1630 McCarthy Blvd., Milpitas, CA 95035-7417
(408) 432-1900
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FAX: (408) 434-0507 ● www.linear.com
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION 2014