Texas Instruments ADS1015EVM-PDK

Overview

ADS1015EVM-PDK from Texas Instruments is an evaluation kit for the ADS1015 12-bit delta-sigma analog-to-digital converter, comprising the ADS1015EVM board, MMB3 motherboard with MSP430F449 microcontroller, USB interface, and ADCPro™ Windows software. It supports I²C communication at 3.3V logic levels, provides dual-device evaluation capability, and enables real-time data acquisition at up to 3300 SPS with configurable PGA gain (0.67×–16×), programmable data rate, and comparator functions.

For engineers reviewing the ADS1015EVM-PDK datasheet, ADS1015EVM-PDK pinout, ADS1015EVM-PDK application, or ADS1015EVM-PDK equivalent, this kit delivers turnkey validation of sensor signal chains, precision voltage monitoring, and low-power embedded ADC integration - with full control over mux configuration, threshold-based alerting, and FFT/histogram analysis via plug-in architecture.

Technical Context

The ADS1015EVM-PDK integrates the ADS1015EVM daughterboard-featuring two ADS1015 ICs-with the MMB3 motherboard, which hosts an MSP430F449 microcontroller, TUSB3410 USB-to-serial bridge, and onboard power regulation delivering +3.3V, +5V, ±10V, and +1.8V rails. Communication occurs over I²C at standard-mode speeds, with all digital I/O conforming to 3.3V CMOS levels except I²C pins, which follow I²C bus specifications.

ADCPro software controls the kit via a dedicated plug-in that configures both ADS1015 devices simultaneously, enforcing identical data rates (128–3300 SPS) and supporting continuous-conversion mode only. The MMB3 firmware handles USB enumeration, command parsing, and register-level access to ADS1015 control registers-including multiplexer selection, PGA gain, comparator thresholds, and alert polarity-without requiring external host processor intervention.

Key Specifications

Availability

ADS1015EVM-PDK is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for sensor interface validation, industrial process monitoring, and battery-powered data acquisition systems requiring stable component supply and long-term design support.

Supply support for ADS1015EVM-PDK 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 connectivity technologies, with leadership in precision data converters and evaluation platforms.

The ADS1015EVM-PDK belongs to TI's Modular EVM System product line, designed to accelerate development of high-accuracy sensor signal chains by providing hardware-software co-validated reference platforms for delta-sigma ADCs.

FAQ

What is the ADS1015EVM-PDK used for?

The ADS1015EVM-PDK is used to evaluate the ADS1015 12-bit delta-sigma ADC in real-world conditions. It enables engineers to configure input multiplexing, PGA gain, data rate, comparator thresholds, and alert behavior via ADCPro software - validating performance in sensor interfacing, voltage monitoring, and low-power embedded measurement applications before final PCB design.

Does the ADS1015EVM-PDK support both ADS1015 and ADS1115 devices?

No - the ADS1015EVM-PDK is specifically configured and validated for the ADS1015 (12-bit). While the physical ADS1015EVM board can accept either ADS1015 or ADS1115 ICs, the ADS1015EVM-PDK kit includes firmware, software plug-ins, and documentation optimized exclusively for ADS1015 operation, including its unique data rate options (128–3300 SPS) and timing behavior.

What operating systems are compatible with the ADS1015EVM-PDK software?

The ADS1015EVM-PDK requires ADCPro software, which officially supports only Microsoft Windows XP. Windows Vista and later versions (including Windows 10/11) are not supported due to driver and API dependencies tied to the TUSB3410 USB-to-serial bridge and legacy MSP430F449 firmware stack used in the MMB3 motherboard.

Can the ADS1015EVM-PDK operate without a PC connection?

No - the ADS1015EVM-PDK has no standalone operation mode. It relies entirely on the MMB3 motherboard's MSP430F449 microcontroller to execute ADCPro commands, manage I²C transactions with the ADS1015 devices, and relay data over USB. Without the PC and ADCPro software, the kit cannot acquire, configure, or analyze ADC data.

Is external power required for the ADS1015EVM-PDK?

No - the ADS1015EVM-PDK draws all operating power from the USB port connected to the host PC. The MMB3 motherboard internally regulates USB 5V into +3.3V, +5V, ±10V, and +1.8V rails required by the ADS1015EVM and its support circuitry. No external power supplies, batteries, or wall adapters are needed or supported.