AD9173BBCZ - Dual 16-Bit 12.6 GSPS RF DAC | Analog Devices
MPN: AD9173BBCZ ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $176.66 | $176.66 |
| 10 | $165 | $1,650.00 |
| 100 | $150 | $15,000.00 |
| 500 | $135 | $67,500.00 |
| 1,000 | $120 | $120,000.00 |
AD9173BBCZ Overview
A digital-to-analog converter (DAC) is a device that converts digital signals into analog voltages or currents. In RF systems, high-speed DACs like the AD9173 are essential for generating wideband waveforms directly at radio frequencies, eliminating the need for multiple upconversion stages. The AD9173 belongs to the family of RF transceivers and data converters, which are critical components in modern communication systems, radar, and test equipment.
Key features of the AD9173BBCZ include dual 16-bit DACs, a maximum sample rate of 12.6 GSPS, and a JESD204B interface with 8 lanes at 15.4 Gbps. The on-chip clock multiplier allows the use of a lower-frequency reference clock, simplifying system design. The device also offers a flexible digital upconversion (DUC) engine with multiple channelizers, supporting both single-band and multiband operation. These features enable direct RF synthesis, reducing system complexity and power consumption.
From a technical perspective, the AD9173 utilizes a high-speed CMOS DAC core with advanced interpolation filters and numerically controlled oscillators (NCOs). The JESD204B interface supports subclass 1 deterministic latency, ensuring precise synchronization in multi-chip systems. The device operates from a 1.0V core supply and 1.8V/3.3V I/O supplies, with power dissipation typically around 2.5W at full sample rate. The 144-ball BGA-ED package (10x10 mm) provides excellent thermal performance and signal integrity for high-frequency operation.
Typical applications for the AD9173BBCZ include wireless infrastructure (4G/5G base stations), radar systems, electronic warfare, and test and measurement equipment. Its high sample rate and wide bandwidth make it suitable for generating wideband signals in software-defined radios and direct RF sampling architectures. The device's multiband capability allows a single DAC to generate multiple carriers simultaneously, reducing component count and cost.
When designing with the AD9173, careful attention must be paid to power supply decoupling and clock jitter. Use low-noise LDOs for analog supplies and a high-quality clock source to achieve optimal SNR and SFDR. The JESD204B interface requires proper termination and impedance matching to ensure error-free data transfer at 15.4 Gbps.
Drop-in alternatives for AD9173BBCZ — same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
Variants in this series
Same-series models that are drop-in compatible with AD9173BBCZ (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Number of DACs, Package, Data Interface, Digital Signal Processing, Operating Temperature Range.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
AD9173BBPZ
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
AD9172BBCZ
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified✓ In Stock
$59.7 / Unit
View Datasheet →AD9174BBCZ
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified✓ In Stock
Contact for price
View Datasheet →AD9175BBCZ
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
AD9176BBCZ
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
AD9173BBCZ Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Resolution | 16-bit |
| Number of DACs | 2 |
| Maximum Sample Rate | 12.6 GSPS |
| Data Interface | JESD204B (8 lanes, 15.4 Gbps) |
| On-Chip Clock Multiplier | Yes |
| Digital Signal Processing | Channelizers, DUC, NCO |
| Package | 144-BGA-ED (10x10 mm) |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40C to +85C |
| Core Supply Voltage | 1.0V |
| I/O Supply Voltage | 1.8V/3.3V |
| Power Dissipation | 2.5W (typical) |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
AD9173BBCZ Pin Configuration
| Pin A1 | DAC0_P — DAC0 positive output |
| Pin A2 | DAC0_N — DAC0 negative output |
| Pin B1 | DAC1_P — DAC1 positive output |
| Pin B2 | DAC1_N — DAC1 negative output |
| Pin C1 | AVDD — Analog power supply |
| Pin C2 | AVSS — Analog ground |
| Pin D1 | CLK_P — Clock positive input |
| Pin D2 | CLK_N — Clock negative input |
| Pin E1 | JESD_RX_P — JESD204B receive positive |
| Pin E2 | JESD_RX_N — JESD204B receive negative |
| Pin F1 | DVDD — Digital power supply |
| Pin F2 | DVSS — Digital ground |
Typical Applications
AD9173BBCZ is suitable for 6 applications: 5G Wireless Infrastructure, Radar Systems, Electronic Warfare, Test and Measurement, Software-Defined Radio, Satellite Communications.
5G Wireless Infrastructure
The AD9173BBCZ is ideal for 5G base stations, where its 12.6 GSPS sample rate and multiband capability enable direct RF synthesis of wideband signals. The JESD204B interface simplifies connection to FPGAs, and the on-chip DUC reduces digital processing load. This allows a single DAC to generate multiple carriers, reducing component count and power consumption.
Recommended
Radar Systems
In radar applications, the AD9173BBCZ provides the high sample rate and wide bandwidth needed for generating chirp signals and other complex waveforms. Its 16-bit resolution ensures high dynamic range, while the JESD204B interface supports deterministic latency for coherent processing. The device's multiband capability allows simultaneous transmission on multiple frequencies.
Recommended
Electronic Warfare
The AD9173BBCZ is well-suited for electronic warfare systems that require agile frequency hopping and wide instantaneous bandwidth. Its high sample rate enables direct generation of signals up to 6 GHz, and the fast reconfiguration of NCOs allows rapid frequency changes. The device's small BGA package is ideal for space-constrained military platforms.
Recommended
Test and Measurement
For arbitrary waveform generators and signal generators, the AD9173BBCZ offers the high sample rate and resolution needed to produce clean, wideband signals. Its on-chip DUC allows precise frequency control, and the JESD204B interface ensures low-latency data transfer. The device's high SFDR is critical for generating low-distortion test signals.
Recommended
Software-Defined Radio
In SDR platforms, the AD9173BBCZ enables direct RF transmission, eliminating multiple upconversion stages. Its wide bandwidth supports multiple communication standards, and the flexible DUC allows channelization for simultaneous signals. The device's high sample rate and 16-bit resolution provide excellent signal quality for demanding SDR applications.
Recommended
Satellite Communications
The AD9173BBCZ is used in satellite ground stations for generating wideband uplink signals. Its high sample rate supports multi-carrier operation, and the JESD204B interface ensures reliable data transfer over long distances. The device's low power consumption is beneficial for ground station equipment that operates continuously.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for AD9173BBCZ — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | AD9173BBPZ | AD9172BBCZ | AD9174BBCZ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 144-BGA-ED (10x10 mm) | 144-BGA (10x10 mm) | 144-BGA-ED (10x10 mm) | 144-BGA-ED (10x10 mm) |
| Brand | Analog Devices | Analog Devices | Analog Devices | Analog Devices |
| Resolution | 16-bit | 16-bit | 16-bit | 16-bit |
| Maximum Sample Rate | 12.6 GSPS | 12.6 GSPS | 12 GSPS | 12.6 GSPS |
| Number of DACs | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| JESD204B Lanes | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 |
| On-Chip Clock Multiplier | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Power Dissipation | 2.5W (typical) | 2.5W (typical) | 2.3W (typical) | 2.6W (typical) |
Key Differentiators
- Higher maximum sample rate (vs AD9172BBCZ)
- Package variant with enhanced thermal performance (vs AD9173BBPZ)
- Dual DAC architecture (vs AD9175BBCZ)
Design Notes
The AD9173BBCZ requires clean power supplies for optimal performance. Use low-noise LDO regulators for AVDD and DVDD, and place decoupling capacitors (100nF and 10uF) close to each power pin. Avoid sharing supplies between analog and digital domains to prevent noise coupling.
For the 144-ball BGA package, use a multilayer PCB with dedicated ground planes. Ensure proper impedance control for the JESD204B differential pairs (100 ohm differential) and clock lines. Keep high-speed traces short and use via stitching to minimize inductance.
The AD9173BBCZ dissipates up to 2.5W, so adequate thermal management is required. Use thermal vias under the exposed pad and connect to a large copper pour. In high ambient temperature environments, consider forced air cooling or a heatsink.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliance indicated by Analog Devices product page. Other compliance data not specified in provided sources.
