ADI LTC5597 100MHz–70GHz RMS Power Detector

ADI LTC5597 100MHz–70GHz RMS Power Detector

The Analog Devices LTC5597 is a wideband, linear-in-dB RMS RF power detector operating from 100MHz to 70GHz. It provides a 35dB dynamic range with typical accuracy better than ±1dB under specified conditions and a logarithmic output slope of 28.5mV/dB.

Designed for microwave and millimeter-wave systems, the LTC5597 measures average RF signal power, including modulated signals with crest factors up to 12dB. Its compact 2 × 2mm DFN package is suitable for RF instrumentation, transmit power monitoring and automatic gain control applications.

LTC5597 Key Specifications

Note: Dynamic range and measurement accuracy depend on RF frequency, signal level and operating conditions. The 35dB dynamic range should not be interpreted as a guaranteed performance level across the complete 100MHz–70GHz range.

LTC5597 Ordering Part Numbers

The I-grade and H-grade versions have different rated temperature ranges. Buyers should confirm the full ordering suffix, packaging quantity and required temperature grade before purchase.

RMS Power Measurement and RF Design Checks

The LTC5597 converts RF input power into a DC output voltage proportional to the input power in dB. Its RMS response is useful for measuring modulated RF signals where envelope variations can affect conventional detector readings.

Engineers should consider the following design requirements:

• Frequency calibration: Verify detector accuracy at the intended operating frequencies, especially above 60GHz.

• Input power: Check the usable input dynamic range and absolute maximum RF power rating.

• Output filtering: An external capacitor between FLTR and OUT adjusts averaging bandwidth and output ripple.

• RF layout: Maintain a controlled 50Ω input transition and minimize parasitic effects at millimeter-wave frequencies.

• ADC interface: Check output voltage range, calibration and ADC resolution for the required measurement accuracy.

ADI provides the DC2932A demonstration board and DC3129A evaluation platform to assist with RF measurement and circuit evaluation.

Typical Applications

• 5G and millimeter-wave RF power monitoring

• Satellite and point-to-point microwave communication

• RF test and measurement instrumentation

• RF power amplifier output monitoring

• Transmit and receive gain control

FAQ

Does the LTC5597 measure modulated RF signals?

Yes. Its RMS detection architecture supports RF signals with crest factors up to 12dB, making it suitable for average power measurement of many modulated waveforms.

Is the LTC5597 accurate across the entire 70GHz range?

The device operates from 100MHz to 70GHz, but measurement accuracy and dynamic range depend on frequency and input power. ADI specifies ±2dB frequency flatness from 100MHz to 60GHz. Frequency-specific calibration is recommended.

What is the difference between LTC5597IDC and LTC5597HDC?

The main distinction is the rated operating temperature range: −40°C to +105°C for the I-grade device and −40°C to +125°C for the H-grade device. Review the datasheet for grade-specific electrical guarantees.

Datasheet and Related RF Detectors

Manufacturer documentation:

• ADI LTC5597 Official Product Page

• LTC5597 Datasheet (PDF)

For alternative RF detector technologies, see the HEROTEK Tunnel Diode Detector Series and HEROTEK Zero-Bias Schottky Detectors. These detectors use different measurement approaches and should not be treated as direct replacements for the LTC5597.

LTC5597 Price and Availability

Looking for ADI LTC5597 pricing, stock availability or ordering information?

Contact DataStorageIC with your required part number, quantity, target frequency range and application details. Our team can assist with sourcing, datasheet verification and RFQ requests.