Cascadable IF VGAs with Programmable RMS Detectors

The ADL5336 consists of a pair of variable gain amplifiers (VGAs) designed for cascaded IF applications. The amplifiers have linear-in-dB gain control and operate from low frequencies to 1 GHz. Their excellent gain conformance over the control range and flatness over frequency are due to Analog Devices, Inc., patented X-AMP® architecture, an innovative technique for implementing high performance variable gain control.

Each VGA has 24 dB of gain control range. Their maximum gain can be independently programmable over a 6 dB range via the SPI. The VGAs can be cascaded to provide a total range of 48 dB. When connected to a 50 Ω source through a 1:4 balun, the gain is 6 dB higher. The second VGA has an SPI programmable input switch that selects one of two external inputs.

When driven from a 200 Ω source or from a 50 Ω source through a 1:4 balun, the noise figure (NF) for the composite amplifier is 6.8 dB at maximum gain. The output of each VGA can drive 100 Ω loads to 5 V p-p maximum.

Each VGA has an independent square law detector for autonomous, automatic gain control (AGC) operation. Each detector setpoint can be programmed independently through the SPI from −24 dBV to −3 dBV in 3 dB steps. When both VGAs are arranged in AGC mode and are programmed to the same setpoint, the composite NF increases to 9 dB when backed off by 18 dB from maximum gain.

The ADL5336 operates from a 5 V supply and consumes a typical supply current of 80 mA. When disabled, it consumes 4 mA. It is fabricated in an advanced silicon-germanium BiCMOS process and is available in a 32-lead exposed paddle LFCSP package. Performance is specified over a −40°C to +85°C temperature range.

Applications

* Point-to-multipoint radios

* Instrumentation

* Medical

* Pair of VGAs with rms AGC detectors

* VGA and AGC modes of operation

* Continuous gain control range: 48 dB

* Noise figure (NF) = 6.8 dB at maximum gain

* IMD3 > 62 dBc for 1.0 V p-p composite output

* Differential input and output

* Multiplexed inputs for VGA2

* Programmable detector AGC setpoints

* Programmable VGA maximum gain

* Power-down feature

* Single 5 V supply operation