Analog Devices Inc. AD9744-FMC-EBZ

Overview

AD9744-FMC-EBZ from Analog Devices is an FMC-compatible evaluation board designed to interface the AD9744 14-bit, 210 MSPS TxDAC® digital-to-analog converter with FPGA-based system demonstration platforms (e.g., SDP-H1). It supports differential current output (2–20 mA), operates from 2.7–3.6 V supplies, and delivers >75 dBc SFDR at 20 MHz output with transformer-coupled configuration.

For engineers reviewing the AD9744-FMC-EBZ datasheet, AD9744-FMC-EBZ pinout, AD9744-FMC-EBZ application, or AD9744-FMC-EBZ equivalent, this page provides verified hardware context, FMC-LPC interface mapping, on-board reference control, DAC clocking modes (PECL/diff/SE), and validated test configurations for RF transmit signal path validation in 3G/4G/LTE baseband systems.

Technical Context

The AD9744-FMC-EBZ implements the AD9744's 32-lead LFCSP package on a high-speed layout-optimized PCB with controlled-impedance FMC-LPC traces, on-board RSET adjustment, and configurable REFIO/FS ADJ reference control. It routes IOUTA/IOUTB differentially to SMA connectors with optional transformer or op amp output stages.

It integrates the AD9744's edge-triggered CMOS digital interface (14-bit parallel, 210 MSPS), selectable clock input modes (CMODE-controlled PECL/high-Z diff/single-ended), and power-down (SLEEP) functionality - all accessible via FMC I/O and jumpers per UG-1650 Rev. A.

Key Specifications

Availability

AD9744-FMC-EBZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for RF transceiver prototyping, wireless infrastructure baseband validation, and high-speed DAC characterization requiring stable component supply, traceable sourcing, and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for AD9744-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 semiconductor leader specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing technologies for precision instrumentation, communications, and industrial applications.

The AD9744-FMC-EBZ belongs to Analog Devices' TxDAC® evaluation platform family, engineered specifically for rapid validation of high-speed DACs in wireless transmit signal chains - emphasizing RF spectral purity, low power, and flexible clock/data interfacing.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the AD9744-FMC-EBZ?

The AD9744-FMC-EBZ is an FMC-LPC form-factor evaluation board that hosts the AD9744 14-bit, 210 MSPS TxDAC® DAC and enables direct integration with FPGA carrier cards (e.g., SDP-H1) for high-fidelity RF waveform generation. It provides full access to the AD9744-FMC-EBZ's differential current outputs, reference control, clock modes, and power-down features - all configured per UG-1650 Rev. A.

Does the AD9744-FMC-EBZ support both AC- and DC-coupled output configurations?

Yes - the AD9744-FMC-EBZ supports both. For AC coupling, it uses an RF transformer (e.g., Mini-Circuits T1-1T) between IOUTA/IOUTB and SMA outputs, delivering optimal SFDR above 10 MHz. For DC coupling, it supports op amp-based differential-to-single-ended conversion (e.g., AD8047) with matched 25 Ω loads and optional COPT capacitor to limit slew-induced distortion - all documented in UG-1650 Section "Differential Coupling Using an Op Amp Configuration".

How is the full-scale output current set on the AD9744-FMC-EBZ?

The AD9744-FMC-EBZ sets full-scale output current (IOUTFS = 2–20 mA) via an external RSET resistor connected to the FS ADJ pin, per Equation 4 (IREF = VREFIO/RSET) and Equation 3 (IOUTFS = 32 × IREF) in UG-1650. The board includes footprint options and jumper-selectable RSET networks to support precise current calibration and power optimization - critical for maintaining linearity while scaling AD9744-FMC-EBZ power dissipation from 135 mW down to 60 mW.

Which clock input modes does the AD9744-FMC-EBZ support, and how are they selected?

The AD9744-FMC-EBZ supports three clock modes per the AD9744's CMODE pin: single-ended (CMODE → CLKCOM), high-impedance differential (CMODE → CLKVDD), and PECL differential (CMODE floating). These are implemented via onboard jumpers and match Table 1 in UG-1650. The PECL mode activates internal 50 Ω terminations; high-Z mode accepts 0.5 V_p-p differential sine inputs; single-ended mode drives CLK+ rail-to-rail with CLK− floating - all validated for <1 ps jitter impact on AD9744-FMC-EBZ SFDR performance.

Can the AD9744-FMC-EBZ be used without the SDP-H1 controller board?

Yes - the AD9744-FMC-EBZ can operate standalone when driven by an external pattern generator or FPGA carrier with compatible FMC-LPC signaling. Its digital interface (14-bit data, SLEEP, CLK, CMODE) and analog sections (REFIO, FS ADJ, IOUTA/IOUTB) are fully accessible via FMC edge connector pins and onboard test points. However, USB-based DPGDownloader control and automated calibration require the EVAL-SDP-CH1Z (SDP-H1) as specified in UG-1650 Section "Equipment Needed".