Analog Devices Inc. (ADI) introduced a phase-locked loop (PLL) synthesizer for wireless communication systems that features the industry’s best combination of integration, performance, flexibility and the widest continuous frequency-range coverage for a single RF device. The latest member of ADI’s RF IC product portfolio, the ADF4351 PLL allows implementation of fractional-N or integer-N operation continuously over an ultra-wide frequency range of 35 MHz to 4400 MHz while maintaining excellent phase-noise performance.

This has the benefit of allowing customers to greatly reduce the need to support multiple narrowband synthesizers, thereby reducing inventory and bill of materials costs. The ADF4351 incorporates a high performance, on-chip voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) and supports dual output ports, which allows the part to have unsurpassed flexibility and performance in a small surface-mount package.

The ADF4351 PLL features programmable divide-by-1/2/4/8/16/32/64 circuits, which allow the user to generate an RF output frequency anywhere between 35 MHz and 4400 MHz. This means that engineers no longer have to design multiple synthesizers for different bands, which speeds design cycle times and reduces component costs. For applications that require isolation, the RF output stage can be muted. The mute function is both pin- and software-controllable. Furthermore, control of all of the on-chip registers is through a simple 3-wire interface. The ADF4351 PLL operates with a power supply ranging from 3.0 V to 3.6 V and can be powered down when not in use.