Analog Devices Inc. AD9204-20EBZ

Overview

AD9204-20EBZ from Analog Devices is a dedicated evaluation board for the AD9204 20 MSPS dual-channel 12-bit analog-to-digital converter, supporting full ac performance characterization, SPI-based configuration, and flexible clock/analog input routing via transformer or amplifier paths.

For engineers reviewing the AD9204-20EBZ datasheet, AD9204-20EBZ pinout, AD9204-20EBZ application, or AD9204-20EBZ equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of ADC dynamic performance (SNR, SFDR), clock jitter sensitivity, input drive level optimization, and SPI register control in high-speed data acquisition systems.

Technical Context

The AD9204-20EBZ implements a dual-channel, 12-bit, 20 MSPS ADC evaluation platform with transformer-coupled analog inputs optimized for up to ~150 MHz input frequencies and 2 V p-p full-scale range using internal 1 V reference. It supports both single-ended sine wave clock inputs (via SMA J602) and on-board Valpey Fisher VFAC3-BHL oscillator options (50/65/80 MHz).

Power delivery includes configurable LDO-regulated rails (1.8 V AVDD/DRVDD, 3.3 V analog support) and optional ADP2114 switching regulator substitution for efficiency testing. Signal capture relies on CMOS output buffering (U801/U802) routed to HSC-ADC-EVALCZ FPGA platform via P902/P903 connectors.

Key Specifications

Availability

AD9204-20EBZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-speed data acquisition, communications test equipment, and instrumentation requiring stable component supply, consistent evaluation board revisioning (Rev. A), and traceable sourcing of Analog Devices reference platforms.

Supply support for AD9204-20EBZ 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, Inc. is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing semiconductors, headquartered in Wilmington, MA.

The AD9204-20EBZ belongs to Analog Devices' high-speed ADC evaluation board family (UG-003), designed specifically to accelerate prototyping and performance validation of precision, low-power, dual-channel ADCs in test & measurement and communications applications.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the AD9204-20EBZ?

The AD9204-20EBZ is an evaluation board-not a semiconductor component-designed exclusively to characterize and validate the AD9204 dual-channel 12-bit 20 MSPS analog-to-digital converter. It provides complete signal chain support including clock generation, analog input conditioning, power regulation, SPI interface, and CMOS output capture, enabling engineers to measure SNR, SFDR, and other ac performance metrics under real-world conditions. The AD9204-20EBZ itself contains no active conversion circuitry; its purpose is to host and exercise the AD9204 device.

Which ADC does the AD9204-20EBZ evaluate?

The AD9204-20EBZ evaluates the AD9204, a dual-channel, 12-bit, 20 MSPS analog-to-digital converter. As confirmed in UG-003 Table 1, the AD9204 is explicitly listed under the "AD9269 Family" alongside AD9251, AD9231, AD9269, and AD6659. All hardware configurations-including default analog input network (Figure 5), internal 1 V reference, and transformer-coupled clock path-are tailored to the AD9204's specifications and operational requirements.

Does the AD9204-20EBZ include an on-board oscillator?

Yes, the AD9204-20EBZ supports an on-board Valpey Fisher VFAC3-BHL oscillator (50 MHz, 65 MHz, or 80 MHz) as its default clock source for the AD9204. This is enabled by installing jumper J605 (OSC_EN). The oscillator connects through transformer T601 to provide low-jitter differential clocking. An external clock can be substituted by removing J605 and applying a clean 50 Ω-terminated sine wave to SMA connector J602 (labeled ENCODE+).

What software tools are required to operate the AD9204-20EBZ?

Two primary software tools are required: VisualAnalog for FFT-based ac performance analysis (SNR, SFDR, harmonic distortion) and SPI Controller for register-level configuration of the AD9204. Both are provided free by Analog Devices and integrate directly with the AD9204-20EBZ via USB-connected HSC-ADC-EVALCZ FPGA capture board. Configuration files must match the AD9204 part number, and firmware bin files must be selected per the target ADC in VisualAnalog's FPGA tab.

Can the AD9204-20EBZ be powered by bench supplies instead of the included wall adapter?

Yes, the AD9204-20EBZ supports external bench power supplies. To do so, ferrite beads E101, E102, E114, E103, E105, and E107 must be removed to isolate on-board LDO outputs. Then, 1.8 V (1 A) supplies for DUT_AVDD/DRVDD and DVDD, plus a 3.3 V (1 A) analog supply (3V_CLK), are connected via headers P102 and P103. This allows independent biasing of analog/digital domains and precise noise/ripple characterization during AD9204 evaluation.