Analog Devices' ADISimRF v1.7 Released

Analog Devices just announced the release of the latest version of their ADISimRF applet for calculating cascaded RF component parameters. It takes typical input values for up to 15 stages and returns typical cascaded values at the output. As I do with any such program, I compared its results with those of my RF Cascade Workbook (RFCW) spreadsheet. The numbers agree as expected since both use pretty much the same set of well-established textbook formulas.

One difference in the two programs is that ADISimRF appears to use the standard IP3 (3rd-order intercept point) cascade formula for calculating P1dB (1 dB compression point)*, whereas RFCW uses Psat (saturated power) instead since the P1dB formula is only an approximation of widely varying nonlinear response and might lead to a false sense of security. RFCW's Psat calculated values simply test what the output power level for a device would be if the gain were always linear, and sets a warning flag if it exceeds the specified Psat value. Doing so always errs on the side of caution. As long as the user is aware of the method used, he can proceed with confidence with either option.

If you don't like using a spreadsheet and only need the information hard-coded into the application, then ADISimRF is a good choice, but honestly, the flexibility of a spreadsheet is probably worth reconsidering your preferences.

* I could not find anywhere that the ADI folks stipulate how P1dB is calculated, but entering the device P1dB values into the IP3 fields results in the exact same output value. Here is a write-up I did on approximating cascaded P1dB with the IP3 formula and why it is not always valid.

ADISimRF v1.7 Example Screen

RF Cascade Workbook 2005 Example Screen

Here is the full text of the press release:

Feb. 25, 2013 13:00 UTC

New Version of Analog Devices’ Simulation Tool Significantly Eases Development of RF Systems

NORWOOD, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI) today announced the release of a new version of its popular ADIsimRF™ design tool. The free design tool is the software accompaniment to ADI's complete portfolio of RF-to-digital functional blocks, allowing engineers to model RF signal chains using devices from across ADI's RF IC and data converter portfolio. ADIsimRF Version 1.7 adds a number of new device models along with enhanced support for inter-stage mismatch calculations. The design tool provides calculations for the most important parameters within an RF signal chain, including cascaded gain, noise figure, IP3, P1dB, and total power consumption. The ADIsimRF design tool contains embedded data from many of ADI's RF ICs and data converters, which designers can easily access using pull-down menus to assist in component selection.

Download ADIsimRF design tool: http://www.analog.com/adisimrf

View video demonstration of ADIsimRF: http://videos.analog.com/video/products/rf-ics/993001113001/ADIsimRF/

View ADI's broad portfolio of RF ICs: http://www.analog.com/rf
View ADI's leading portfolio of data converters: http://www.analog.com/converters
Browse ADI's RF design tools: http://www.analog.com/rftools

[borders/inc-300x250.htm]ADIsimRF Version 1.7 Key Features:

The new version of the ADIsimRF design tool includes significant enhancements to inter-stage mismatch calculations. One of the tool’s unique capabilities as an RF signal chain calculator is its ability to calculate scalar mismatch loss that results when two adjacent devices have different output and input impedances. In ADIsimRF Version 1.7, device models for many non-50 Ohm devices such as I/Q Demodulators, VGAs and ADC Drivers have been tweaked in order to take full advantage of the tool’s ability to factor the effect of inter-stage mismatch into cascaded IP3, P1dB, gain and noise figure calculations. The new version also adds device models for ADI’s latest RF ICs, including the ADRF6755 I/Q Modulator and the ADL5324, ADL5321 and ADL5320 Driver Amplifiers.

About Analog Devices

Innovation, performance, and excellence are the cultural pillars on which Analog Devices has built one of the longest standing, highest growth companies within the technology sector. Acknowledged industry-wide as the world leader in data conversion and signal conditioning technology, Analog Devices serves over 60,000 customers, representing virtually all types of electronic equipment. Analog Devices is headquartered in Norwood, Massachusetts, with design and manufacturing facilities throughout the world. Analog Devices is included in the S&P 500 Index.

Posted 2/25/2013

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