Analog Devices Inc. AD9255-80EBZ

Overview

AD9255-80EBZ from Analog Devices is a full-featured evaluation board designed to characterize the AD9255 14-bit, 80 MSPS analog-to-digital converter under real-world signal chain conditions. It supports differential analog input up to ~250 MHz, offers SPI-based configuration via VisualAnalog and SPIController software, and provides flexible clocking with on-board oscillator (80 MHz), AD9517-4 PLL, or external LVPECL/CMOS sources.

For engineers reviewing the AD9255-80EBZ datasheet, AD9255-80EBZ pinout, AD9255-80EBZ application, or AD9255-80EBZ equivalent, this board enables rapid ac performance validation-including SNR (76.5 dB), SFDR (88.0 dBc), and FFT analysis-using HSC-ADC-EVALCZ FPGA capture hardware, low-jitter clock sources, and calibrated analog signal paths with balun or amplifier input options.

Technical Context

The AD9255-80EBZ implements a complete reference design for the AD9255BCPZ-80 ADC in a 64-lead LFCSP package. Its hardware includes dual power domains (1.8 V AVDD/SVDD/DRVDD), configurable VREF (1.0 V default, 2.0 V p-p FS range), and RBIAS set to 10 kΩ for optimal core bias current. Input path supports double-balun coupling or optional ADL5562/ADA4937-1/ADA4938-1 RF amplifiers.

Clock architecture supports three modes: direct 80 MHz oscillator (Valpey Fisher), AD9517-4–based LVPECL synthesis, or external 50 Ω–terminated source. Output buffering uses 74VCX162827MTDX 16-bit CMOS drivers routed to P2 header for connection to HSC-ADC-EVALCZ, with DCO, OR, and data bus signals fully accessible.

Key Specifications

Availability

AD9255-80EBZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-speed data acquisition, radar front-end prototyping, and communications receiver development requiring stable component supply and validated reference designs.

Supply support for AD9255-80EBZ 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 leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing semiconductors, headquartered in Wilmington, MA.

The AD9255-80EBZ belongs to Analog Devices' high-speed ADC evaluation platform family, engineered to accelerate time-to-test for precision sampling systems in instrumentation, defense, and wireless infrastructure applications.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the AD9255-80EBZ?

The AD9255-80EBZ is an evaluation board-not an IC or discrete component-designed exclusively to test and validate the AD9255BCPZ-80 14-bit, 80 MSPS analog-to-digital converter. It provides all necessary support circuitry including power regulation, clock generation, analog input conditioning, and digital output interfacing to enable comprehensive ac performance characterization in lab and bench environments.

Which ADC does the AD9255-80EBZ evaluate?

The AD9255-80EBZ evaluates the AD9255BCPZ-80: a 14-bit, 80 MSPS analog-to-digital converter in a 64-lead LFCSP package. The board also supports AD9265 variants (125/105/80 MSPS) per build instructions, but its default configuration, oscillator frequency (80 MHz), and documentation focus are optimized for the AD9255BCPZ-80.

Does the AD9255-80EBZ include a built-in clock source?

Yes-the AD9255-80EBZ ships with a factory-installed low-phase-noise 80 MHz oscillator from Valpey Fisher, matched to the rated speed of the AD9255BCPZ-80. Jumper P6 and zero-ohm resistor C70 enable its integration into the clock path; R25 must be removed to disable termination. External clock sources (e.g., signal generators) may also be applied via J6.

How is analog input configured on the AD9255-80EBZ by default?

By default, the AD9255-80EBZ uses a double-balun-coupled analog input network optimized for frequencies up to ~250 MHz with 50 Ω impedance. This passive configuration requires no active components. Optional amplifier paths (ADL5562, ADA4937-1, or ADA4938-1) are supported via unpopulated footprints and configurable jumpers (e.g., P19 to enable ADL5562).

What software tools are required to operate the AD9255-80EBZ?

Two primary software tools are required: VisualAnalog for FFT analysis, SNR/SFDR measurement, and data visualization; and SPIController for register-level configuration of the AD9255BCPZ-80 (e.g., clock divide ratio, data format, power-down mode). Both tools interface via USB to the HSC-ADC-EVALCZ FPGA capture board, which connects directly to the AD9255-80EBZ through P2.