Part A
ADF4159CCPZ
Analog Equipment GmbH.
- Lifecycle
- Active
- Stock
- 5118 PCS
- Package
- WFQFN-24
- Series
- Horloge Timing - générateur d'horloge, PLL, synthétiseur de fréquence
Replacement verdict
Compatible functional replacement candidate
The ADF4159CCPZ and ADF4169CCPZ-RL7 are both 13 GHz fractional-N frequency synthesizers from Analog Devices in the same 24-lead LFCSP package, sharing core PLL architecture and supply requirements. The ADF4169CCPZ-RL7 adds integrated frequency ramp generation and fast lock capability, making it a functionally compatible upgrade candidate for the ADF4159CCPZ in most ramp and sweep applications, provided the designer validates the additional ramp features and register map differences against the target design.
Frequency Range
High match
Package Type
High match
Ramp Generation Feature
Validation required
Register Map Compatibility
Validation required
Parts at a glance
Part B
ADF4169CCPZ-RL7
Analog Equipment GmbH.
- Lifecycle
- Active
- Stock
- 2632 PCS
- Package
- WFQFN-24
- Series
- Horloge Timing - applications spécifiques
Key differences
Rows are prioritized by design impact. Highlighted values require attention during substitution.
Key electrical and mechanical differences between the two devices
| Parameter | ADF4159CCPZ | ADF4169CCPZ-RL7 | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maximum RF Output Frequency | 13 GHz | 13.5 GHz | Determines the highest frequency the PLL/synthesizer can generate; the ADF4169 extends usable range slightly higher for mmWave and high-band applications. |
| Maximum Frequency Modulation Rate (Ramp Clock) | Up to 25 MHz ramp clock (fast ramp) | Up to 40 MHz ramp clock (faster ramp capability) | Faster ramp rates enable higher-resolution and shorter-duration FMCW chirps, which directly affects radar range resolution and update rate. |
| Phase Frequency Detector (PFD) Frequency | Up to 110 MHz | Up to 125 MHz | A higher PFD frequency allows a higher reference comparison rate, improving phase noise and lock time performance in the loop. |
| Normalized Phase Noise Floor | -224 dBc/Hz (typical) | -225 dBc/Hz (typical) | Lower phase noise floor translates to cleaner spectral output, which is critical for radar, test equipment, and communication signal integrity. |
| Maximum RF Input Frequency (External VCO/Prescaler Input) | 13 GHz | 13.5 GHz | Defines the upper limit for external RF input; a higher limit supports wider-band VCO sources and higher-frequency synthesizer architectures. |
| Ramp/Modulation Resolution (Frequency Step) | 12-bit frequency deviation word | 12-bit frequency deviation word with enhanced ramp features | Frequency step resolution affects chirp linearity and precision in FMCW modulation; enhanced ramp features improve waveform flexibility. |
| Supply Voltage Range | 3.0 V to 3.6 V | 3.0 V to 3.6 V | Identical supply requirements mean both parts are drop-in compatible from a power-rail perspective. |
| Package Type | 32-lead LFCSP (5 mm x 5 mm) | 32-lead LFCSP (5 mm x 5 mm) | Same package and footprint allow direct board-level substitution without layout changes. |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40°C to +85°C | -40°C to +85°C | Identical temperature ratings ensure equivalent environmental robustness for industrial and automotive applications. |
| Interface | 3-wire SPI | 3-wire SPI | Same serial interface protocol means firmware and host controller drivers remain compatible across both parts. |
Need help validating a replacement?
Send your BOM and application constraints for technical and sourcing review.
Full specification comparison
Use manufacturer datasheets as the final authority.
| Specification | ADF4159CCPZ | ADF4169CCPZ-RL7 |
|---|---|---|
| Supplier | - | Analog Devices Inc. |
| Part Status | Active | Active |
| PLL | Yes | Yes |
| Main Purpose | - | FMCW Radar |
| Input | CMOS, TTL | CMOS |
| Output | CMOS | Clock |
| Number of Circuits | 1 | 1 |
| Ratio - Input: Output | 2:1 | 2:1 |
| Differential - Input: Output | Yes/No | Yes/No |
| Frequency - Max | 13GHz | 13.5GHz |
| Voltage - Supply | 1.62V ~ 3.45V | 2.7V ~ 3.45V |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C ~ 125°C | -40°C ~ 125°C |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount | Surface Mount |
| Divider / Multiplier | Yes/Yes | - |
Frequently asked questions
What are the key differences between the ADF4159CCPZ and the ADF4169CCPZ-RL7?
Both are 13 GHz fractional-N frequency synthesizers from Analog Devices in a 24-lead LFCSP package. The ADF4159 is specified for RF output up to 13 GHz and supports frequency modulation (ramp) capability, while the ADF4169 is specified for RF output up to 13.5 GHz and includes an integrated waveform generation feature with faster ramp rates. The ADF4159CCPZ is supplied in a tray, whereas the ADF4169CCPZ-RL7 is supplied in tape-and-reel packaging. Designers should confirm the exact maximum frequency, ramp specifications, and packaging requirements against the respective datasheets.
Are the ADF4159CCPZ and ADF4169CCPZ-RL7 pin-compatible?
Both devices are offered in the same 24-lead LFCSP (CP-24) package with the same pin count and footprint, which supports PCB layout compatibility. However, pin-compatibility does not guarantee functional equivalence; firmware, register maps, and external loop filter values must be validated against each device's datasheet before substitution.
What is the maximum RF output frequency of each device?
Per Analog Devices documentation, the ADF4159 is specified for RF output frequencies up to 13 GHz, and the ADF4169 is specified for RF output frequencies up to 13.5 GHz. The exact usable range depends on the external VCO and loop filter design.
Do both parts support frequency ramp or modulation functions?
Yes. The ADF4159 includes frequency ramp and modulation capability, and the ADF4169 includes an integrated waveform generation feature with ramp capability. The specific ramp rate, ramp step, and modulation parameters differ between the two devices and must be verified in the respective datasheets for the target application.
What supply voltage and logic interface do these synthesizers use?
Both devices operate from a nominal 3.3 V analog and digital supply and use a 3-wire SPI-compatible serial interface for register programming. Exact supply ranges, current consumption, and logic threshold levels should be confirmed from the Analog Devices datasheets for each part number.
How does the packaging differ between ADF4159CCPZ and ADF4169CCPZ-RL7?
The ADF4159CCPZ is supplied in a tray, while the ADF4169CCPZ-RL7 is supplied in tape-and-reel (the -RL7 suffix denotes reel packaging). Both use the same 24-lead LFCSP body, so the choice is primarily a manufacturing and handling consideration rather than a footprint difference.
Can the ADF4169CCPZ-RL7 be used as a drop-in replacement for the ADF4159CCPZ?
Not without validation. Although both share the same package and pin count, the ADF4169 offers a higher specified maximum frequency and different waveform generation features. Register settings, loop filter design, and firmware must be re-verified against the ADF4169 datasheet before any substitution is approved.