Texas Instruments ADS1120EVM

Overview

ADS1120EVM from Texas Instruments is an evaluation module designed for the ADS1120 - a 16-bit, low-power, delta-sigma analog-to-digital converter with integrated PGA, reference, and IDACs. It supports single-ended and differential measurements across four analog inputs, features internal/external clock and reference options, and enables rapid prototyping of precision sensor interfaces including RTDs, thermocouples, and bridge sensors.

For engineers reviewing the ADS1120EVM datasheet, ADS1120EVM pinout, ADS1120EVM application, or ADS1120EVM equivalent, this module provides full register-level control via ADCPro software, SPI/I²C interface access, LaunchPad compatibility, and configurable analog signal conditioning for industrial and embedded measurement systems.

Technical Context

The ADS1120EVM implements a complete hardware platform centered on the ADS1120 ADC, integrating an MSP430F5528 microcontroller for USB-based communication and real-time configuration. It supports all ADS1120 operating modes - Normal, Turbo, and Duty-Cycle - with data rates up to 2 kSPS (Turbo) and programmable gain (1–128) via its integrated PGA.

Hardware flexibility includes dual analog reference inputs (REFP0/REFN0 and REFP1/REFN1), two 10–1500 µA IDACs routable to any analog input, burnout current sources, and low-side power switching for bridge excitation. Signal routing is managed through configurable jumpers (JP1–JP8), test points, and headers J1–J6, JAC, JDB, and J4.

Key Specifications

Availability

ADS1120EVM is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for precision sensor evaluation, RTD/thermocouple interface development, and industrial analog front-end validation requiring stable component supply and full documentation support.

Supply support for ADS1120EVM 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 analog solutions for industrial, automotive, and communications applications.

The ADS1120EVM belongs to TI's precision data acquisition evaluation platform family, engineered to accelerate design-in of delta-sigma ADCs in sensor signal chains for temperature, pressure, load, and resistance measurements.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the ADS1120EVM?

The ADS1120EVM is an evaluation module built around the ADS1120 16-bit delta-sigma ADC. Its primary function is to enable rapid hardware and firmware evaluation of precision analog sensor interfaces - including RTDs, thermocouples, and bridge sensors - using configurable gain, reference, IDAC, and filter settings. The ADS1120EVM integrates an MSP430F5528 microcontroller and USB interface to support real-time configuration via TI's ADCPro software, making it a turnkey solution for validating ADS1120-based designs before PCB layout.

Does the ADS1120EVM support both ADS1120 and ADS1220 devices?

Yes, the ADS1120EVM is part of the ADS1x20EVM platform, which supports both the ADS1120 (16-bit) and ADS1220 (24-bit) devices interchangeably. Hardware design, jumper configurations, header layouts (J4, J1, J2, etc.), and ADCPro plug-in functionality are identical for both ICs. The ADS1120EVM user guide explicitly states that operation for the ADS1120 is identical to the ADS1220 unless otherwise noted, and all schematics, BOMs, and interface definitions apply directly to the ADS1120EVM.

How is the ADS1120EVM powered and what supply rails does it require?

The ADS1120EVM operates from a +5 V analog supply (provided by USB or external source at J7) and a +3.3 V digital/analog supply (generated onboard via LDO or supplied externally). JP3 selects AVDD source (+5 V or +3.3 V), while JP7 and JP8 configure USB power routing and +3.3 V regulation. Critical analog signals (AIN0–AIN3, REFP0/REFN0) connect to AVDD and AGND, and all digital logic (MSP430, SPI, USB) runs from the +3.3 V rail. Power sequencing is handled automatically; no external sequencing circuitry is required for standard operation of the ADS1120EVM.

Can the ADS1120EVM be used with controllers other than the onboard MSP430?

Yes, the ADS1120EVM supports external controller integration. Jumpers JP5 and JP6 disable the onboard MSP430 and route digital control signals (CS, SCLK, DIN, DOUT/DRDY) to test points TP1–TP5 and bottom-side connectors JAC/JDB. These connectors follow LaunchPad-compatible pinouts and use Samtec SSW-110-22-F-D-VS-K footprints. When JP5 is shorted, U8 buffer outputs enter high-impedance state, allowing direct SPI access to the ADS1120. This makes the ADS1120EVM usable as a standalone ADC sub-system in custom host designs without modifying the EVM board.

What sensor types are supported out-of-the-box on the ADS1120EVM?

The ADS1120EVM natively supports RTDs (2-/3-/4-wire via J2 terminal block), thermocouples (via Omega PCC-SMP connector J3), and bridge sensors (load cells, strain gauges via J1/J6 screw terminals). It provides dedicated IDAC routing for RTD excitation, low-side switching for bridge power conservation, internal temperature sensor readout for cold-junction compensation, and configurable burnout current sources for open-wire detection. All analog inputs accept passive RC filtering components, and ratiometric measurement paths (e.g., REFP1/REFN1 tied to AIN0/AIN3) are pre-wired for immediate use with the ADS1120EVM.