Analog Devices Inc. AD9742-FMC-EBZ

Overview

AD9742-FMC-EBZ from Analog Devices is an FMC-compatible evaluation board designed to interface the AD9742 12-bit, 210 MSPS TxDAC® digital-to-analog converter in high-speed communication transmit paths. It supports differential current output (2–20 mA), operates from 2.7 V to 3.6 V supplies, delivers >75 dBc SFDR at 20 MHz, and enables transformer-coupled or op amp-based analog reconstruction for RF and broadband applications.

For engineers reviewing the AD9742-FMC-EBZ datasheet, AD9742-FMC-EBZ pinout, AD9742-FMC-EBZ application, or AD9742-FMC-EBZ equivalent, this page provides verified hardware configuration details, FMC-LPC interface mapping, clock mode selection (PECL/differential/single-ended), power-down timing (5 µs wake-up), and compatibility with SDP-H1 controller and DPGDownloader software - all critical for rapid prototyping of wideband DAC signal chains.

Technical Context

The AD9742-FMC-EBZ implements the AD9742's 32-lead LFCSP package on a 2-layer FMC-LPC carrier, routing all 12 data bits (DB0–DB11), CLK+/CLK−/CMODE, SLEEP, REFIO, FS ADJ, and IOUTA/IOUTB to edge connectors per ANSI/VITA 57.1. It integrates RSET network, 0.1 µF REFIO decoupling, and configurable termination for differential clock and current outputs.

It supports three clock input modes via CMODE pin strapping (single-ended, high-Z differential, PECL), enables full-scale current tuning from 2 mA to 20 mA via external RSET, and provides direct access to AVDD/DVDD/CLKVDD rails with on-board filtering. The board lacks onboard DAC silicon - it is a passive adapter platform requiring mating AD9742ACP-PCBZ or compatible LFCSP evaluation module.

Key Specifications

Availability

AD9742-FMC-EBZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for RF transceiver prototyping, broadband communications testbeds, and software-defined radio (SDR) development requiring stable component supply, FMC interoperability, and rapid DAC evaluation.

Supply support for AD9742-FMC-EBZ 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, with design centers worldwide.

The AD9742-FMC-EBZ belongs to Analog Devices' TxDAC® evaluation platform family, engineered specifically to accelerate development of high-speed, high-fidelity transmit signal chains in wireless infrastructure, instrumentation, and defense electronics.

FAQ

What is the AD9742-FMC-EBZ and how does it differ from the AD9742ACP-PCBZ?

The AD9742-FMC-EBZ is an FMC-LPC mezzanine board that hosts the AD9742ACP-PCBZ evaluation module - it provides standardized mechanical and electrical interfacing to host carriers like SDP-H1, whereas the AD9742ACP-PCBZ is the core LFCSP-mounted DAC evaluation board with analog output circuitry. AD9742-FMC-EBZ adds no active components; its role is interconnect and signal routing, not DAC functionality.

Does the AD9742-FMC-EBZ include the AD9742 DAC IC?

No, the AD9742-FMC-EBZ does not contain the AD9742 DAC IC. It is a passive carrier board designed to accept and electrically interface the separate AD9742ACP-PCBZ evaluation module (or compatible AD9740/44/48 variants). Users must procure the AD9742ACP-PCBZ separately to complete the evaluation system.

Which host controllers are compatible with the AD9742-FMC-EBZ?

The AD9742-FMC-EBZ is fully compatible with the EVAL-SDP-CH1Z (SDP-H1) system demonstration platform, which provides USB 2.0 host control, pattern generation via DPGDownloader, and synchronized clock/data distribution. It adheres to ANSI/VITA 57.1 LPC specifications and may integrate with other FMC-LPC carriers supporting 3.3 V I/O and required timing constraints.

Can the AD9742-FMC-EBZ support differential clock inputs?

Yes, the AD9742-FMC-EBZ routes CLK+, CLK−, and CMODE signals directly from the FMC-LPC connector to the AD9742ACP-PCBZ, enabling all three clock modes defined in the AD9742 datasheet: single-ended (CMODE = CLKCOM), high-impedance differential (CMODE = CLKVDD), and PECL differential (CMODE floating). On-board jumpers allow user-selectable CMODE strapping.

What software tools are required to operate the AD9742-FMC-EBZ?

Operation requires Analog Devices' DPGDownloader software (Windows only) to configure and stream digital patterns to the AD9742 via the SDP-H1 controller. No firmware or driver installation is needed beyond standard Windows USB CDC drivers. The AD9742-FMC-EBZ itself requires no standalone software - it functions as a transparent signal path between SDP-H1 and the mounted AD9742ACP-PCBZ.