Analog Devices Inc. AD7468BRM

Overview

AD7468BRM from Analog Devices is an 8-bit, micropower successive approximation analog-to-digital converter (ADC) operating from a single 1.6 V to 3.6 V supply. It delivers up to 320 kSPS throughput with 0.2 mW typical power dissipation at 1.8 V/100 kSPS, features no pipeline delay, and uses VDD as its internal reference for 0 V to VDD input range-ideal for ultra-low-power battery-powered sensor interfaces.

For engineers reviewing the AD7468BRM datasheet, AD7468BRM pinout, AD7468BRM application, or AD7468BRM equivalent, this page provides verified specifications, SOT-23 pin mapping, real-world use cases in isolated data acquisition and medical instrumentation, and validated alternative parts with documented functional and performance differences.

Technical Context

The AD7468BRM implements a standard successive approximation register (SAR) architecture with integrated track-and-hold, enabling accurate sampling of input signals up to 3.2 MHz full-power bandwidth (at 3 dB, VDD ≥ 2.5 V). Conversion is initiated by the falling edge of CS and synchronized to SCLK, requiring exactly 10 clock cycles for completion.

It employs straight binary output coding, SPI/QSPI/MICROWIRE/DSP-compatible serial interface, and automatic power-down mode that reduces current to 8 nA typical. The reference is derived solely from VDD, eliminating external reference components while maintaining 0 to VDD analog input range and ±0.3 LSB total unadjusted error.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AD7468BRM is supplied in a 6-lead SOT-23 package (JEDEC MO-178AA), footprint-compatible with industry-standard passive and active components. Its compact 2.9 mm × 1.6 mm outline supports high-density PCB layouts in space-constrained portable devices.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 8-bit SAR ADC applications.

Compared with ADS7822U and MAX11100ETE+, the AD7468BRM uniquely supports 1.6 V operation and offers broader serial protocol compatibility, making it optimal for ultra-low-voltage, multi-host designs where power efficiency and interface versatility are critical.

Availability

AD7468BRM is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered systems, medical instruments, remote data acquisition, and isolated data acquisition requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.

Supply support for AD7468BRM includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Analog Devices is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing semiconductors, headquartered in Norwood, MA, with over 50 years of innovation in precision data conversion and signal conditioning.

The AD7466/AD7467/AD7468 family was designed specifically for micropower, single-supply, space-constrained applications demanding high throughput without sacrificing accuracy-targeting portable healthcare, industrial sensing, and energy-harvesting systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum sample rate supported by the AD7468BRM?

The AD7468BRM supports a maximum throughput rate of 320 kSPS, achieved using a 3.4 MHz SCLK and completing conversion in exactly 10 clock cycles. At lower SCLK frequencies, the throughput scales linearly-for example, 1.7 MHz SCLK yields ~160 kSPS. This fixed 10-cycle timing eliminates variable latency seen in pipelined architectures.

Does the AD7468BRM require an external voltage reference?

No, the AD7468BRM uses its VDD supply as the internal reference, establishing a 0 V to VDD analog input range. This eliminates the need for external reference ICs, reduces BOM count, and simplifies layout-particularly valuable in space- and cost-sensitive designs like wearable sensors and wireless transmitters.

What package options are available for the AD7468BRM?

The AD7468BRM is offered exclusively in the 6-lead SOT-23 package (MO-178AA), with dimensions of 2.9 mm × 1.6 mm × 1.1 mm. This compact, surface-mount package supports automated assembly and high-density routing, and is distinct from the 8-lead MSOP variant used by other members of the AD7466/AD7467/AD7468 family.

How does the AD7468BRM manage power consumption during idle periods?

The AD7468BRM automatically enters power-down mode after each conversion completes, reducing supply current to 8 nA typical. No software command is needed-the transition occurs inherently when CS returns high and SCLK is inactive. This feature enables ultra-low average power in duty-cycled applications such as periodic sensor polling in IoT nodes.

What is the analog input voltage range specification for the AD7468BRM?

The AD7468BRM accepts a single-ended analog input from 0 V to VDD, with VDD ranging from 1.6 V to 3.6 V. This rail-to-rail input range maximizes dynamic utilization of the 8-bit code space without external level-shifting circuitry, and is maintained across the full operating temperature range (−40°C to +85°C).