The ADF41020 frequency synthesiser from Analog Devices can be used to implement local oscillators as high as 18GHz in the up-conversion and down-conversion sections of wireless receivers and transmitters. It consists of a low noise, digital phase frequency detector, a precision charge pump, a programmable reference divider and high frequency programmable feedback dividers. A PLL can be implemented if the synthesiser is used with an external loop filter and voltage controlled oscillator. The synthesiser can drive external microwave voltage controlled oscillators via an active loop filter. The high bandwidth eliminates a frequency doubler stage simplifing system architecture. The synthesiser is software-compatible with the company's ADF4106, -7, -8 devices. The pin-out also matches, except for the single-ended RF input pin.
