Analog Devices

ADMV4821-EVAL - 24-29.5GHz 5G Beamformer Eval Board | Analog Devices

MPN: ADMV4821-EVAL βœ“ Active
In Stock Ships in 1-3 business days
5V (typical) Vdss Evaluation Board (PCB) Package 24 GHz to 29.5 GHz Speed
From $1200 USD / Unit
MOQ: 1 |
Price updated: 2026-08-21
Volume Pricing
Qty Unit Price Extended
1 $1500 $1,500.00
10 $1425 $14,250.00
100 $1350 $135,000.00
500 $1275 $637,500.00
1,000 $1200 $1,200,000.00
ℹ️ All prices are in USD

Drop-in alternatives for ADMV4821-EVAL β€” same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.

Quick Comparison Tool β€” Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:

ADMV4821-EVALZ

βœ… Drop-In
πŸ“¦ Evaluation Board
Same board, different ordering code (Z suffix)

πŸ“‹ Reference alternative (not in catalog)

ADMV4801-EVALZ

⚑ Same Package
πŸ“¦ Evaluation Board
Single polarization beamformer, same frequency range

πŸ“‹ Reference alternative (not in catalog)

PE188200A-Z

⚑ Same Package
πŸ“¦ Evaluation Board
8-channel beamforming front-end, different architecture

πŸ“‹ Reference alternative (not in catalog)

ADMV4821-EVAL Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics

Frequency Range 24 GHz to 29.5 GHz
Number of TX Channels 16
Number of RX Channels 16
Polarization Dual (Horizontal and Vertical)
RF Input/Output Impedance 50 ohm single-ended
Supported 5G NR Bands n257, n258, n261
Technology Silicon Germanium (SiGe)
Evaluation Board Includes ADMV4821, LDO regulators, level shifters, EVAL-SDP-CS1Z controller
Controller Interface USB via SDP-S
Supply Voltage 5V (typical)
Operating Temperature [DATA_NEEDED: operating temperature range]
Package Type Evaluation Board (PCB)
RoHS Status Compliant
Lifecycle Recommended for New Designs
Datasheet Revision Rev. B

ADMV4821-EVAL evaluation board (pcb) Pin Configuration Guide

Complete pinout information for ADMV4821-EVAL (evaluation board (pcb) package). This digital IC includes GPIO, communication interfaces (UART, SPI, I2C), and power pins. Refer to the manufacturer datasheet for alternate pin functions and configuration options. Essential for embedded system design and PCB layout.

evaluation board (pcb) package pinout diagram for ADMV4821-EVAL

No detailed pinout data available for ADMV4821-EVAL.

Refer to the datasheet for full pin configuration.

Safe Operating Area (SOA) & Thermal Characteristics

Safe Operating Area Chart Default safe operating area chart for ADMV4821-EVAL Drain-to-Source Voltage (Vds) Drain Current (Id)

No official SOA curve available for this digital IC. Always operate within absolute maximum ratings specified in the datasheet. Ensure adequate cooling and derate as needed.

Typical Applications

ADMV4821-EVAL is suitable for 6 applications: 5G NR Base Station Development, Phased Array Antenna Prototyping, Beamforming Algorithm Validation, Test and Measurement Equipment, Satellite Communication Systems, Radar Systems.

🌐

5G NR Base Station Development

The ADMV4821-EVAL is used to prototype and validate 5G NR base station beamforming modules. Its 24-29.5 GHz frequency coverage supports n257, n258, and n261 bands, and the 16 TX/16 RX channels enable massive MIMO testing. The board's integrated LDOs and level shifters simplify power and control, allowing engineers to focus on RF performance. With dual polarization, it supports both horizontal and vertical antenna configurations, essential for high-capacity base stations.

πŸ“‘

Phased Array Antenna Prototyping

The ADMV4821-EVAL enables rapid prototyping of phased array antennas for 5G and radar applications. The beamformer's 16 channels per polarization allow precise phase and amplitude control, which is critical for beam steering. The evaluation board provides a convenient platform to test antenna arrays without designing custom RF front-ends. Its 50-ohm single-ended ports simplify connection to antenna elements, and the SDP-S controller allows software-based beamforming algorithm development.

πŸ”§

Beamforming Algorithm Validation

Engineers use the ADMV4821-EVAL to validate beamforming algorithms in real hardware. The board's 16 TX and 16 RX channels provide a realistic testbed for algorithms that optimize signal-to-noise ratio and interference rejection. The dual-polarization capability allows testing of polarization diversity techniques. The SDP-S controller enables fast iteration of firmware and software, making it ideal for research and development of advanced beamforming strategies.

πŸ–₯️

Test and Measurement Equipment

The ADMV4821-EVAL can be used in test and measurement setups to characterize beamformer performance, such as gain, phase, and error vector magnitude (EVM). Its wide frequency range and dual-polarization support make it suitable for automated test systems. The board's 50-ohm interfaces are compatible with standard RF test equipment, and the SDP-S controller provides a stable control interface. This allows for repeatable measurements in production test environments.

✈️

Satellite Communication Systems

The ADMV4821-EVAL is applicable to satellite communication systems operating in the 24-29.5 GHz range, such as Ka-band downlinks. The beamformer's dual-polarization and 16 channels enable high-throughput satellite terminals. The evaluation board allows engineers to test the ADMV4821 in a controlled environment before integrating into a full system. Its integrated LDOs ensure clean power, which is critical for maintaining signal integrity in space-grade applications.

πŸš—

Radar Systems

The ADMV4821-EVAL can be used to develop radar systems that operate in the 24-29.5 GHz band, such as automotive radar and imaging radar. The beamformer's 16 channels allow for high-resolution beamforming, which is essential for target detection and imaging. The evaluation board provides a flexible platform to test radar waveforms and signal processing algorithms. Its dual-polarization capability enhances radar performance in cluttered environments.

Recommended Products Summary

ADMV4821 Analog Devices Used in: 5G NR Base Station Development, Phased Array Antenna Prototyping, Beamforming Algorithm Validation, Test and Measurement Equipment, Satellite Communication Systems, Radar Systems EVAL-SDP-CS1Z Controller board for USB interface Used in: 5G NR Base Station Development, Phased Array Antenna Prototyping, Beamforming Algorithm Validation, Test and Measurement Equipment, Satellite Communication Systems, Radar Systems
What is the ADMV4821-EVAL evaluation board?
The ADMV4821-EVAL is an evaluation board from Analog Devices that incorporates the ADMV4821, a 24 GHz to 29.5 GHz dual-polarization 5G beamformer. It includes LDO regulators, level shifters, and an EVAL-SDP-CS1Z controller board for simplified evaluation. According to the ADI product page, the board allows efficient testing of the beamformer's 16 TX and 16 RX channels.
What is the frequency range of the ADMV4821-EVAL?
The ADMV4821-EVAL operates from 24 GHz to 29.5 GHz, covering the 5G NR bands n257, n258, and n261. This frequency range is specified in the ADMV4821 datasheet (Rev. B) and is suitable for millimeter-wave 5G applications.
How many channels does the ADMV4821 beamformer support?
The ADMV4821 supports 16 selectable transmit channels and 16 selectable receive channels, as stated in the DigChip datasheet summary. This allows for dual-polarization beamforming with independent control of each channel.
What is the price of the ADMV4821-EVAL?
As of 2026-08-22, the ADMV4821-EVAL is priced at approximately $1500 for a single unit, with volume discounts available. For the most current pricing, check distributor sites like Octopart or contact Analog Devices directly.
Where can I buy the ADMV4821-EVAL?
The ADMV4821-EVAL can be purchased from authorized distributors such as Richardson RFPD and other suppliers listed on Octopart. Analog Devices also offers direct sales through their website. Availability may vary, so check with distributors for current stock.
What is the lead time for the ADMV4821-EVAL?
The lead time for the ADMV4821-EVAL is typically 4-6 weeks from authorized distributors, but it can vary based on demand and supply chain conditions. As of 2026-08-22, the part is in active production and recommended for new designs.
Is the ADMV4821-EVAL in stock?
Stock availability for the ADMV4821-EVAL varies by distributor. As of 2026-08-22, Octopart shows availability from 2 distributors. Check current stock levels on distributor websites or contact sales for real-time inventory.
ADMV4821-EVAL vs ADMV4821-EVALZ - what is the difference?
The ADMV4821-EVAL and ADMV4821-EVALZ are essentially the same evaluation board; the 'Z' suffix is often used by Analog Devices to denote a specific ordering code. According to the ADI product page, both refer to the same board that includes the ADMV4821 and the SDP-S controller. There is no functional difference.
When should I choose the ADMV4821-EVAL over other beamformer eval boards?
Choose the ADMV4821-EVAL when you need to evaluate a dual-polarization beamformer covering 24-29.5 GHz with 16 TX and 16 RX channels. It is ideal for 5G NR n257/n258/n261 applications. Compared to single-polarization boards, it offers more flexibility for massive MIMO prototyping.
What is the best drop-in replacement for the ADMV4821-EVAL?
There is no direct drop-in replacement for the ADMV4821-EVAL, as it is a unique evaluation board for the ADMV4821. For the bare IC, the ADMV4821 is the only version. For similar beamformer ICs, consider the ADMV4801 (24-29.5 GHz, single polarization) or the PE188200A-Z from pSemi, but these are not pin-compatible.
Where can I download the ADMV4821-EVAL datasheet PDF?
The ADMV4821 datasheet (Rev. B) is available from the Analog Devices product page at https://www.analog.com/en/products/admv4821.html. The evaluation board user guide UG-1564 is also available at https://www.analog.com/media/en/technical-documentation/user-guides/admv4821-evalz-ug1564.pdf.
What are the key specifications of the ADMV4821 that engineers should know?
The ADMV4821 is a SiGe beamformer operating from 24 GHz to 29.5 GHz with 16 TX and 16 RX channels, dual polarization, and 50-ohm single-ended RF ports. It supports 5G NR bands n257, n258, and n261. The evaluation board includes LDO regulators and level shifters, and requires an SDP-S controller for operation.
Can the ADMV4821-EVAL be used for 5G NR n257 band testing?
Yes, the ADMV4821-EVAL covers the n257 band (26.5-29.5 GHz) as part of its 24-29.5 GHz frequency range. According to the datasheet, it supports n257, n258, and n261 bands, making it suitable for testing 5G NR base station and user equipment prototypes.
What is the best Analog Devices equivalent for the ADMV4821?
The ADMV4821 is a unique dual-polarization beamformer from Analog Devices. The closest equivalent is the ADMV4801, which is a single-polarization version covering the same frequency range. For dual-polarization, the ADMV4821 is the only option. No cross-brand equivalent exists with identical functionality.

Engineering reference data for ADMV4821-EVAL β€” comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.

Selection Guide

Choose the ADMV4821-EVAL when you need to evaluate a dual-polarization beamformer with 16 TX and 16 RX channels for 5G NR n257/n258/n261 applications. It is ideal for base station development and phased array prototyping. If you only need single polarization, the ADMV4801-EVALZ is a lower-cost alternative. For applications requiring fewer channels, the PE188200A-Z from pSemi offers 8 channels but may require more external circuitry. The ADMV4821-EVAL is the most comprehensive evaluation platform for dual-polarization beamforming in the 24-29.5 GHz band.

Comparison with Alternatives

Parameter This Product ADMV4821-EVALZ ADMV4801-EVALZ PE188200A-Z
Package Evaluation Board Evaluation Board Evaluation Board Evaluation Board
Brand Analog Devices Analog Devices Analog Devices pSemi
Frequency Range 24-29.5 GHz 24-29.5 GHz 24-29.5 GHz [DATA_NEEDED]
Number of Channels 16 TX / 16 RX 16 TX / 16 RX 16 TX / 16 RX 8 channels
Polarization Dual Dual Single Dual
Supported 5G Bands n257, n258, n261 n257, n258, n261 n257, n258, n261 [DATA_NEEDED]
Technology SiGe SiGe SiGe [DATA_NEEDED]
Controller Board EVAL-SDP-CS1Z EVAL-SDP-CS1Z EVAL-SDP-CS1Z [DATA_NEEDED]

Key Differentiators

  • Dual polarization support (vs ADMV4801-EVALZ)
  • 16 TX and 16 RX channels (vs PE188200A-Z)
  • Integrated LDO regulators and level shifters (vs PE188200A-Z)

Design Notes

The ADMV4821-EVAL requires a 5V supply and uses on-board LDO regulators to provide clean power to the beamformer. Ensure the supply is stable and free of noise to avoid degrading RF performance. The SDP-S controller board is powered via USB, but the RF section should be powered separately to prevent digital noise coupling.

The evaluation board is designed with 50-ohm impedance matching for all RF ports. When connecting external antennas or test equipment, use high-quality RF cables and connectors to maintain signal integrity. Avoid long cable runs at 24-29.5 GHz to minimize losses.

Ensure the SDP-S controller is properly connected and recognized by the software before powering the board. Incorrect power sequencing can damage the beamformer. Refer to the user guide UG-1564 for detailed setup instructions and software configuration.

Compliance Information

RoHS
Compliant
REACH
Unknown
AEC-Q100
Not Applicable
Lead Free
Yes
Halogen Free
Unknown
Conflict Minerals
Unknown

RoHS compliance inferred from ADI standard practice; not explicitly stated in provided data.

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