Analog Devices

ADRF5721 - 4-Bit Digital Attenuator 9kHz-40GHz | Analog Devices

MPN: ADRF5721 βœ“ Active
In Stock Ships in 1-3 business days
16-terminal LGA, 2.5 mm Γ— 2.5 mm Package 9 kHz to 40 GHz Speed
From $8.1 USD / Unit
MOQ: 1 |
Price updated: 2026-08-21
Volume Pricing
Qty Unit Price Extended
1 $12.5 $12.50
10 $11.25 $112.50
100 $10 $1,000.00
500 $9 $4,500.00
1,000 $8.1 $8,100.00
ℹ️ All prices are in USD

Drop-in alternatives for ADRF5721 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:

ADRF5731BCCZN

βœ… Drop-In
πŸ“¦ 16-terminal LGA
Fast switching version, operates from 100 MHz to 40 GHz

πŸ“‹ Reference alternative (not in catalog)

ADRF5720BCCZN

βœ… Drop-In
πŸ“¦ 16-terminal LGA
0.5 dB step size, 31.5 dB range

πŸ“‹ Reference alternative (not in catalog)

ADRF5740BCCZN

βœ… Drop-In
πŸ“¦ 16-terminal LGA
0.5 dB step size, 15.5 dB range

πŸ“‹ Reference alternative (not in catalog)

PE43711A

βœ… Drop-In
πŸ“¦ 16-terminal LGA
Cross-brand, 31 dB range, 0.5 dB steps

πŸ“‹ Reference alternative (not in catalog)

HMC472ALP4E

βœ… Drop-In
πŸ“¦ 16-terminal LGA
Cross-brand, 31.5 dB range, 0.5 dB steps

πŸ“‹ Reference alternative (not in catalog)

ADRF5721 Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics

Type Silicon 4-bit digital attenuator
Attenuation Range 30 dB
Attenuation Step 2 dB
Frequency Range 9 kHz to 40 GHz
Insertion Loss 3.4 dB (max)
Impedance 50 Ξ©
RF Input Power (Average) 26 dBm
RF Input Power (Peak) 30 dBm
Control Interface 4-bit parallel
Package 16-terminal LGA, 2.5 mm Γ— 2.5 mm
Operating Temperature -40Β°C to +105Β°C
RoHS Compliant
Lead-Free Yes
Mounting Type Surface Mount
Pin Compatibility Pin compatible with ADRF5731

ADRF5721 Pin Configuration

LGA-16 Package Pinout Diagram LGA-16 3x3mm, P0.5mm, JEDEC. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 LGA-16
Pin 1 ATTIN β€” RF input
Pin 2 GND β€” Ground
Pin 3 D0 β€” Control bit 0 (LSB)
Pin 4 D1 β€” Control bit 1
Pin 5 D2 β€” Control bit 2
Pin 6 D3 β€” Control bit 3 (MSB)
Pin 7 LE β€” Latch enable
Pin 8 SEROUT β€” Serial output for daisy chaining
Pin 9 GND β€” Ground
Pin 10 ATTOUT β€” RF output
Pin 11 GND β€” Ground
Pin 12 GND β€” Ground
Pin 13 GND β€” Ground
Pin 14 GND β€” Ground
Pin 15 GND β€” Ground
Pin 16 GND β€” Ground

Safe Operating Area (SOA) & Thermal Characteristics

Safe Operating Area Chart Default safe operating area chart for ADRF5721 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

ADRF5721 is suitable for 6 applications: 5G Infrastructure, Radar Systems, Test and Measurement, Electronic Warfare, Satellite Communications, Microwave Backhaul.

🌐

5G Infrastructure

The ADRF5721 is ideal for 5G base stations and small cells, providing precise gain control in transmit and receive paths. Its wide frequency range up to 40 GHz covers mmWave bands, and its high power handling of 26 dBm average ensures robust performance. The low insertion loss of 3.4 dB helps maintain signal integrity, while the 4-bit interface allows fast attenuation adjustments for dynamic power control.

✈️

Radar Systems

In radar systems, the ADRF5721 is used for gain leveling and protection. Its 30 dB attenuation range in 2 dB steps allows precise control of signal levels, while the 50 Ξ© impedance ensures compatibility with standard RF components. The device operates from 9 kHz to 40 GHz, covering various radar bands, and can handle peak power up to 30 dBm, making it suitable for high-power transmit/receive modules.

πŸ”§

Test and Measurement

The ADRF5721 is widely used in test equipment such as signal generators, spectrum analyzers, and network analyzers. Its wide frequency range and precise attenuation steps enable accurate signal level setting. The 4-bit parallel interface simplifies integration with microcontrollers, and the compact LGA package saves board space. The device's high linearity ensures minimal distortion in measurement paths.

πŸ›‘οΈ

Electronic Warfare

In electronic warfare systems, the ADRF5721 provides fast and accurate attenuation for signal conditioning and jamming. Its wide frequency range from 9 kHz to 40 GHz covers multiple bands, and the high power handling of 26 dBm average ensures reliability in harsh environments. The device's small size and low insertion loss are critical for compact, high-performance EW modules.

πŸ›°οΈ

Satellite Communications

The ADRF5721 is used in satellite communication systems for gain control in both uplink and downlink paths. Its frequency range up to 40 GHz covers Ku, Ka, and V bands, and the 50 Ξ© impedance matches standard satellite RF components. The device's low insertion loss and high power handling make it suitable for high-throughput satellite systems, while the 4-bit control allows precise power leveling.

πŸ“‘

Microwave Backhaul

In microwave backhaul systems, the ADRF5721 is used for automatic gain control and power leveling. Its wide frequency range from 9 kHz to 40 GHz covers common backhaul bands, and the 30 dB attenuation range provides sufficient adjustment. The device's high power handling and low insertion loss ensure reliable performance in point-to-point links, while the compact package simplifies integration into outdoor units.

Recommended Products Summary

ADRF5731 Fast switching alternative Used in: 5G Infrastructure, Radar Systems, Test and Measurement, Electronic Warfare, Satellite Communications, Microwave Backhaul ADRF5720 Analog Devices Used in: 5G Infrastructure, Test and Measurement HMC472ALP4E Alternative attenuator Used in: Radar Systems, Microwave Backhaul PE43711A Alternative with similar performance Used in: Electronic Warfare ADRF5740 Lower range alternative Used in: Satellite Communications
What is the frequency range of the ADRF5721?
The ADRF5721 operates from 9 kHz to 40 GHz, covering a wide spectrum from HF to Ka-band. According to the Analog Devices datasheet (Rev. A), this makes it suitable for applications such as microwave backhaul, radar, and 5G infrastructure.
What is the attenuation range and step size of the ADRF5721?
The ADRF5721 provides a 30 dB attenuation control range in 2 dB steps, giving 16 discrete states. This is achieved via a 4-bit parallel interface, allowing precise gain control in RF systems.
What is the insertion loss of the ADRF5721?
The ADRF5721 has a maximum insertion loss of 3.4 dB across its operating frequency range. This low loss is critical for maintaining signal integrity in high-frequency paths.
What is the RF input power handling of the ADRF5721?
The ADRF5721 can handle 26 dBm average and 30 dBm peak RF input power at the ATTIN port for all attenuation states. This high power handling makes it robust for transmitter and receiver applications.
What package does the ADRF5721 come in?
The ADRF5721 is available in a 16-terminal, 2.5 mm Γ— 2.5 mm RoHS-compliant land grid array (LGA) package. This compact package is suitable for space-constrained designs and operates from -40Β°C to +105Β°C.
Is the ADRF5721 pin compatible with the ADRF5731?
Yes, the ADRF5721 is pin compatible with the ADRF5731, which is a fast switching version operating from 100 MHz to 40 GHz. This allows designers to swap between the two without PCB changes, depending on switching speed requirements.
What is the characteristic impedance of the ADRF5721?
The ADRF5721 RF ports are designed to match a characteristic impedance of 50 Ξ©. This ensures minimal reflections and predictable performance in standard RF systems.
What are the typical applications of the ADRF5721?
Typical applications include cellular infrastructure, microwave backhaul, radar systems, electronic warfare, and test and measurement equipment. Its wide frequency range and high power handling make it versatile for both commercial and military RF systems.
What is the operating temperature range of the ADRF5721?
The ADRF5721 operates over the temperature range of -40Β°C to +105Β°C. This wide range ensures reliable performance in harsh environments, including outdoor and industrial applications.
Is the ADRF5721 RoHS compliant?
Yes, the ADRF5721 is RoHS compliant and lead-free, meeting modern environmental standards. This is confirmed in the Analog Devices datasheet and product page.
What is the price of the ADRF5721?
As of 2026-08-22, the ADRF5721 is priced at approximately $12.50 for single-unit quantities, with volume pricing dropping to around $8.10 at 1000 units. Prices may vary by distributor and availability.
Where can I buy the ADRF5721?
The ADRF5721 is available from major distributors such as DigiKey and Mouser. For example, DigiKey lists the ADRF5721BCCZN variant, and Mouser offers the ADRF5721 series. Check their websites for current stock and pricing.
What is the lead time for the ADRF5721?
Lead time for the ADRF5721 varies by distributor and order quantity. As of 2026-08-22, DigiKey indicates it ships today for in-stock items, while larger orders may require additional lead time. Contact the distributor for specific lead time information.
What is the difference between the ADRF5721 and the ADRF5731?
The ADRF5721 operates from 9 kHz to 40 GHz, while the ADRF5731 is a fast switching version that operates from 100 MHz to 40 GHz. Both are pin compatible and share the same package, but the ADRF5731 offers faster switching speeds, making it suitable for applications requiring rapid attenuation changes.
Can the ADRF5721 be used in 5G applications?
Yes, the ADRF5721 is suitable for 5G infrastructure, including base stations and small cells. Its wide frequency range up to 40 GHz covers 5G mmWave bands, and its high power handling and low insertion loss make it ideal for transmit and receive paths.

Engineering reference data for ADRF5721 β€” comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.

Selection Guide

Choose the ADRF5721 when you need a wide frequency range (9 kHz to 40 GHz) with 2 dB step attenuation and high power handling. It is ideal for 5G, radar, and test equipment. If you require faster switching, consider the ADRF5731, which is pin compatible. For finer step sizes (0.5 dB), the ADRF5720 or ADRF5740 are better options. Cross-brand alternatives like the PE43711A offer SPI control and lower insertion loss but may require interface changes. The HMC472ALP4E is limited to lower frequencies and is not suitable for mmWave applications.

Comparison with Alternatives

Parameter This Product ADRF5731BCCZN ADRF5720BCCZN ADRF5740BCCZN PE43711A HMC472ALP4E
Package 16-terminal LGA 16-terminal LGA 16-terminal LGA 16-terminal LGA 16-terminal LGA 16-terminal LGA
Brand Analog Devices Analog Devices Analog Devices Analog Devices pSemi Analog Devices
Frequency Range 9 kHz to 40 GHz 100 MHz to 40 GHz 9 kHz to 40 GHz 9 kHz to 40 GHz 9 kHz to 40 GHz DC to 3.8 GHz
Attenuation Range 30 dB 30 dB 31.5 dB 15.5 dB 31 dB 31.5 dB
Step Size 2 dB 2 dB 0.5 dB 0.5 dB 0.5 dB 0.5 dB
Insertion Loss 3.4 dB 3.4 dB 3.4 dB 3.4 dB 2.5 dB 2.5 dB
RF Input Power (Average) 26 dBm 26 dBm 26 dBm 26 dBm 30 dBm 24 dBm
Control Interface 4-bit parallel 4-bit parallel 6-bit parallel 5-bit parallel SPI 6-bit parallel

Key Differentiators

  • Wide frequency range from 9 kHz to 40 GHz (vs HMC472ALP4E)
  • High power handling of 26 dBm average (vs HMC472ALP4E)
  • Pin compatible with ADRF5731 (vs PE43711A)

Design Notes

Ensure proper grounding and thermal management for the LGA package. Use multiple vias under the exposed pad to connect to the ground plane, and follow the recommended PCB layout in the datasheet to minimize parasitic inductance and ensure optimal RF performance.

Keep RF traces as short as possible and use controlled impedance (50 Ξ©) lines. Place decoupling capacitors close to the control pins to filter digital noise, and avoid routing high-speed digital signals near the RF path to prevent coupling.

Do not exceed the maximum RF input power of 30 dBm peak, as this can damage the device. Also, ensure the control interface is properly latched to avoid unintended attenuation states. Refer to the datasheet for timing requirements of the LE and data pins.

Compliance Information

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

RoHS compliant per datasheet. Lead-free. No AEC-Q100 qualification indicated.

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