Analog Devices Inc. AD9204-80EBZ

Overview

AD9204-80EBZ from Analog Devices is a full-featured evaluation board designed to characterize the AD9204 10-bit, 80 MSPS dual-channel analog-to-digital converter under real-world signal chain conditions. It supports transformer-coupled analog inputs up to ~150 MHz, SPI-based register configuration, and flexible clocking via on-board 80 MHz Valpey Fisher oscillator (VFAC3-BHL-80MHz) or external SMA input. The board enables high-fidelity data capture using the HSC-ADC-EVALCZ FPGA platform.

For engineers reviewing the AD9204-80EBZ datasheet, AD9204-80EBZ pinout, AD9204-80EBZ application, or AD9204-80EBZ equivalent, this evaluation board provides validated hardware for ac performance testing-including SNR, SFDR, and ENOB-under controlled power, clock jitter (<1 ps rms), and input drive (2 V p-p, 10 dBm into 50 Ω) conditions required for ADC validation.

Technical Context

The AD9204-80EBZ implements a dual-channel, 10-bit, 80 MSPS ADC evaluation platform with transformer-coupled differential analog inputs (50 Ω terminated), configurable internal reference (1.0 V, yielding 2.0 V p-p full-scale), and selectable power delivery via LDOs or ADP2114 switching regulators. It supports both CMOS digital outputs and SPI-controlled register access.

Its clock architecture includes default transformer-coupled input from an 80 MHz low-phase-noise oscillator, with optional LVPECL clock injection via AD9517 (U701) and external SMA (J602) bypass capability. Input path options include passive balun networks or unpopulated amplifier paths for AD8375 (Channel A) and ADL5562/ADA4937/ADA4938 (Channel B).

Key Specifications

Availability

AD9204-80EBZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-speed data acquisition, communications receiver prototyping, and test equipment development requiring stable component supply and traceable evaluation hardware.

Supply support for AD9204-80EBZ 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 semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing technologies for precision and high-speed applications.

The AD9204-80EBZ belongs to Analog Devices' high-speed ADC evaluation platform family, engineered to accelerate validation of RF-sampling and IF-digitizing systems across defense, communications, and instrumentation markets.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the AD9204-80EBZ?

The AD9204-80EBZ is an evaluation board-not a standalone IC-designed exclusively to assess the performance of the AD9204 10-bit, 80 MSPS dual-channel ADC. It provides all necessary support circuitry including clock generation, analog input conditioning, power regulation, SPI interface, and CMOS output buffering. Engineers use the AD9204-80EBZ with the HSC-ADC-EVALCZ FPGA capture kit and VisualAnalog software to measure dynamic parameters such as SNR, SFDR, and harmonic distortion under controlled lab conditions.

Which ADC does the AD9204-80EBZ evaluate?

The AD9204-80EBZ evaluates the AD9204, a 10-bit, dual-channel, 80 MSPS analog-to-digital converter. It is part of the AD9269 family (which also includes AD9251, AD9231, AD9269, and AD6659), sharing common evaluation board hardware but configured specifically for the AD9204's 80 MSPS sample rate and pin-compatible footprint. The board's default jumper settings, oscillator frequency (80 MHz), and input network are optimized for the AD9204's specifications.

Does the AD9204-80EBZ include an on-board clock source?

Yes, the AD9204-80EBZ includes an on-board 80 MHz Valpey Fisher VFAC3-BHL-80MHz low-phase-noise oscillator (Y601) as its default clock source. This oscillator connects to the AD9204's clock inputs via transformer T601 and is enabled by installing jumper J605. The board also supports external clock injection via SMA connector J602 (labeled ENCODE+) for flexibility in jitter-sensitive characterization.

Can the AD9204-80EBZ be powered by bench supplies instead of the included wall adapter?

Yes, the AD9204-80EBZ supports external bench power supplies. To do so, remove ferrite beads E101, E102, E114, E103, E105, and E107 to disconnect on-board LDO outputs, then apply 1.8 V (≥1 A) to P102 for DUT_AVDD/DRVDD and 1.8 V (≥1 A) to P103 for DVDD. A separate 3.3 V supply (≥1 A) is required for clock circuitry if using SPI or alternate clock modes. This mode allows independent domain biasing for noise isolation studies.

What software tools are required to operate the AD9204-80EBZ?

Two primary software tools are required: VisualAnalog® for FFT-based performance analysis (SNR, SFDR, THD) and the SPI Controller software for register-level configuration of the AD9204. Both are provided free by Analog Devices and integrate with the HSC-ADC-EVALCZ FPGA capture board. Configuration files must match the AD9204 device ID, and the VisualAnalog canvas must load the correct ADC template to ensure proper data formatting and timing alignment.