Hi all,
I’m currently working on an embedded prescaler board design and have been using the ADF5001 (/4, 4–18 GHz) successfully, including some operation above datasheet limits (~20–22 GHz in lab setups). Our current applications go up to ~28 GHz, with an interest in future expansion toward ~35 GHz.
I’m trying to design a flexible prescaler board, rather than a one-off solution, and wanted to see if others here have explored similar architectures.
Some concepts I’m considering:
-
Multi-stage / cascaded prescaling, e.g. a high-frequency front-end divider followed by ADF5000/ADF5001-class devices
-
Switchable paths (RF switch or select) for lower vs higher frequency operation
-
Using a module or higher-frequency divider for the 18–35 GHz range, with ADI prescalers handling downstream conditioning
-
Designing the PCB to support multiple divider options to avoid a full respin as frequency requirements grow
I’m primarily looking through ADI RFIC options, eval boards, or reference architectures that others have found effective above 18 GHz. I’d also appreciate any layout or PCB considerations that become critical when pushing into the upper 20s / low 30s GHz.
Has anyone here tried something similar, or have recommendations on architectures, parts, or gotchas?
Any feedback is appreciated.
Thanks in advance
