Texas Instruments ADC3243EVM

Overview

ADC3243EVM from Texas Instruments is an evaluation module designed to assess the ADC3243 - a dual-channel, 14-bit, 80 MSPS analog-to-digital converter with serial LVDS interface. It supports transformer-coupled single-ended or differential analog inputs, onboard 1.8-V LDO power regulation, and SPI-based GUI control via Mini USB. The EVM enables performance validation in high-speed data acquisition systems including communications test equipment and radar receivers.

For engineers reviewing the ADC3243EVM datasheet, ADC3243EVM pinout, ADC3243EVM application, or ADC3243EVM equivalent, key selection considerations include its support for 80 MSPS sampling, dual-channel LVDS output formatting, onboard clock conditioning, configurable AC/DC coupling, and compatibility with TI's HSDC Pro software and TSW1400 data capture platform.

Technical Context

The ADC3243EVM implements a complete signal chain for evaluating the ADC3243 IC: dual SMA analog inputs feed through 1:1 transformers to achieve balanced differential signaling; a dedicated SMA clock input connects to internal clock conditioning circuitry; and power is derived from a 5-V barrel jack using a dual-output DC/DC converter followed by low-noise LDOs generating 1.8 V for the ADC and 3.3 V for logic.

It features hardware-configurable jumper settings (JP6/JP7) for selecting between LDO and switching regulator paths for the 1.8-V rail, pushbutton reset (SW1), status LED (D1) indicating 5-V presence, and HSMC connector (J13A/B) for interfacing with TI's TSW1400 high-speed data capture board - all aligned with the ADC32xx family's evaluation architecture.

Key Specifications

Availability

ADC3243EVM is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-speed test instrumentation, communications infrastructure prototyping, and radar signal processing applications requiring stable component supply and full evaluation capability.

Supply support for ADC3243EVM 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 headquartered in Dallas, Texas, specializing in analog, embedded processing, and high-performance data conversion technologies.

The ADC3243EVM belongs to TI's high-speed ADC evaluation module product line, engineered specifically to accelerate development of wideband signal acquisition systems using the ADC32xx family of dual-channel, LVDS-output converters.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the ADC3243EVM?

The ADC3243EVM is an evaluation module built to characterize and validate the performance of the ADC3243 - a dual-channel, 14-bit, 80 MSPS analog-to-digital converter with LVDS output. It provides signal conditioning, power regulation, clock handling, and USB-based software control to enable rapid system-level testing of dynamic parameters like SNR, SFDR, and ENOB under real-world conditions. The ADC3243EVM itself is not a production component but a design and verification tool for the ADC3243 IC.

Which ADC does the ADC3243EVM evaluate?

The ADC3243EVM evaluates the ADC3243 IC - a dual-channel, 14-bit, 80 MSPS analog-to-digital converter featuring serial LVDS output, internal clock dividers, and optimized 1/f noise performance. It is part of TI's ADC32xx family and shares pinout, power architecture, and software compatibility with other members such as ADC3241, ADC3242, and ADC3244. The ADC3243EVM is not compatible with JESD204B-family devices like ADC32Jxx.

Does the ADC3243EVM support DC-coupled analog inputs?

Yes, the ADC3243EVM supports DC-coupled analog inputs, but requires hardware modification per the user's guide. This involves swapping specific surface-mount resistors (R3, R4, R14–R18, R142, R139 ↔ R135, R7, R120–R121, R138, R20, R144, R141) on the top side and installing THS4541RGT amplifier components on the bottom side. These changes replace the default AC-coupling network with a fully differential amplifier stage enabling true DC to Nyquist-band operation. The ADC3243EVM documentation provides exact placement and BOM details.

What software is used to control the ADC3243EVM?

The ADC3243EVM is controlled using Texas Instruments' HSDC Pro GUI software, installed via the ADC3xxxx_Installer_vxpx package. This software provides tabbed register access (Common, ADC32xx), real-time configuration of dither, chopper, gain, test patterns, clock dividers, and power-down modes, and integrates with the TSW1400 for data capture and FFT analysis. The GUI communicates over Mini USB (J14) using SPI protocol routed through an onboard CPLD, and supports both Windows 7/10 64-bit environments.

Can the ADC3243EVM be powered from sources other than the barrel jack?

No - the ADC3243EVM is designed exclusively for 5-V DC input via the barrel jack (J15). While the board includes voltage regulation circuitry (TPS62080 and TPS7A4700), it lacks alternative power entry points such as headers or test points rated for primary power delivery. Attempts to inject power elsewhere (e.g., via USB or test points) risk damaging the LDOs, CPLD, or ADC, and are not supported by TI's user guide. Stable 5-V ±5%, ≥3-A capability is required for full functionality including LVDS output drive and clock conditioning.