Texas Instruments ADC31JB68EVM

Overview

ADC31JB68EVM from Texas Instruments is an evaluation module designed to characterize the ADC31JB68 16-bit, 500-MSPS analog-to-digital converter with JESD204B serial interface. It integrates a transformer-coupled analog input network, LMK04828 clock generator for FPGA reference and ADC sampling clock, and FMC connector for high-speed data output to capture cards like TSW14J56EVM. It supports SNR >68 dBFS and SFDR >80 dBFS under quick-start test conditions.

For engineers reviewing the ADC31JB68EVM datasheet, ADC31JB68EVM hardware setup, ADC31JB68EVM GUI configuration, or ADC31JB68EVM compatibility with TSW14J56EVM and HSDC Pro software, this page provides verified functional context, required external equipment, jumper/connector mapping, and performance validation metrics aligned with TI's SLAU630A user's guide.

Technical Context

The ADC31JB68EVM implements a dual-clock-path architecture: default operation uses an ultra-low-jitter external 500-MHz clock via CLK SMA connector, while alternate configurations route LVPECL clock outputs from the onboard LMK04828 (e.g., DCLKout2) to the ADC device clock input. Signal conditioning includes transformer-coupled VIN+ and VIN– inputs with 6-dB attenuator support and dedicated SYSREF and REFCLK interfaces.

It relies on USB-to-SPI translation (FTDI) for register-level control of both ADC31JB68 and LMK04828, and communicates with host PC via Mini-USB. The FMC-LPC connector provides JESD204B lane output compliant with Subclass 1, supporting deterministic latency and multi-device synchronization when used with compatible capture hardware.

Key Specifications

Availability

ADC31JB68EVM is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-speed data converter evaluation, RF receiver prototyping, and JESD204B interface validation requiring stable component supply, traceable sourcing, and long-term toolchain continuity.

Supply support for ADC31JB68EVM 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

Texas Instruments is a global semiconductor company specializing in analog, embedded processing, and high-performance data converter technologies, with decades of leadership in precision signal chain solutions.

The ADC31JB68EVM belongs to TI's high-speed data converter evaluation platform family, engineered specifically to accelerate characterization and system integration of JESD204B-compliant ADCs in radar, communications, and instrumentation applications.

FAQ

What is the primary purpose of the ADC31JB68EVM?

The ADC31JB68EVM is a Texas Instruments evaluation module built exclusively to assess the performance and interface behavior of the ADC31JB68 16-bit, 500-MSPS analog-to-digital converter. It enables engineers to validate JESD204B link integrity, measure dynamic parameters (e.g., SNR >68 dBFS), configure clocking options (external vs. LMK04828-derived), and integrate the ADC31JB68 into FPGA-based systems using standard FMC connectivity. The ADC31JB68EVM is not a production-ready subsystem but a lab-grade characterization tool.

Which data capture hardware is required to use the ADC31JB68EVM?

The ADC31JB68EVM requires the TSW14J56EVM data capture card to acquire and process JESD204B serial output - it does not include on-board memory or real-time analysis capability. The FMC-LPC connector on the ADC31JB68EVM mates directly with the TSW14J56EVM, and communication is managed via High Speed Data Converter Pro (HSDC Pro) software. While compatible with third-party FPGA development kits featuring FMC-LPC, full functionality (including SYSREF synchronization and deterministic latency) is validated only with TI's TSW14J56EVM and associated firmware.

How is the ADC31JB68EVM powered, and what precautions apply?

The ADC31JB68EVM is powered by an external +5-V DC bench supply delivered through a barrel connector (J6) with flying leads. Polarity must be verified before connection: center pin = +5 V, outer shield = ground. Incorrect polarity risks permanent damage. No onboard voltage regulation or power sequencing circuitry is present - all rails are derived directly from the +5-V input. The ADC31JB68EVM does not draw power from USB; the Mini-USB port serves only SPI configuration and status monitoring.

What software tools are needed to operate the ADC31JB68EVM?

Two software tools are mandatory: the ADC31JB68EVM GUI (for programming ADC31JB68 registers and configuring the LMK04828 clock generator) and High Speed Data Converter Pro (HSDC Pro) (for controlling the TSW14J56EVM, capturing JESD204B data, and performing FFT-based analysis). Both are Windows-only applications distributed by Texas Instruments. The ADC31JB68EVM GUI communicates over USB-to-SPI, while HSDC Pro interfaces with the TSW14J56EVM via its own Mini-USB connection - the ADC31JB68EVM itself has no direct software interface beyond its GUI.

Can the ADC31JB68EVM generate its own sampling clock without external equipment?

Yes - the ADC31JB68EVM can derive the ADC sampling clock from its onboard LMK04828 clock generator by modifying jumpers and resistors (e.g., removing R40/R41, installing R43/R50) and configuring LMK04828 for LVPECL output on DCLKout2. However, this configuration trades off optimal noise performance: TI specifies that external ultra-low-jitter clock sources yield superior SNR/SFDR (>68 dBFS / >80 dBFS), whereas LMK04828-sourced clocks introduce additional phase noise. The ADC31JB68EVM's default state assumes external clocking for benchmark-grade results.