Texas Instruments ADS1146EVM

Overview

ADS1146EVM from Texas Instruments is an evaluation module designed to accelerate development with the ADS1146 - a 16-bit, 2-kSPS delta-sigma ADC featuring a programmable gain amplifier (PGA), single-cycle settling digital filter, external reference support, and sensor burnout detection. It supports RTD, thermocouple, and thermistor measurement in industrial temperature sensing systems.

For engineers reviewing the ADS1146EVM datasheet, ADS1146EVM pinout, ADS1146EVM application, or ADS1146EVM equivalent, this module enables rapid validation of analog front-end signal chain performance, SPI interface timing, PGA gain calibration, and burnout current source behavior - critical for precision sensor measurement design.

Technical Context

The ADS1146EVM implements a complete test platform for the ADS1146 IC, including configurable analog input routing, jumper-selectable reference options (external only), onboard voltage regulation, and direct SPI interface to host controllers. It provides access to all 16 pins of the TSSOP-16 ADS1146 device, including AINP/AINN differential inputs, SCLK/DIN/DOUT/DRDY/CS/START/RESET, AVDD/AVSS/DVDD/DGND, and CLK.

Hardware features include precision decoupling capacitors, LED indicators for DRDY and power status, test points for analog and digital signals, and solder jumpers to configure excitation current paths, bias voltage, and reference selection - enabling full characterization of the ADS1146's programmable data rates (5–2000 SPS), 50/60-Hz rejection at 20 SPS, and ±2.5 V bipolar or 2.7–5.25 V unipolar supply operation.

Key Specifications

Availability

ADS1146EVM is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial temperature sensing, factory automation, and process control applications requiring stable component supply, traceable sourcing, and long-term design support.

Supply support for ADS1146EVM 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 and embedded processing technologies, with leadership in precision data converters, power management, and industrial interface solutions.

The ADS1146EVM belongs to TI's precision analog evaluation module family, engineered specifically to simplify prototyping and validation of high-accuracy sensor signal chains using the ADS114x series ADCs in demanding industrial environments.

FAQ

What is the ADS1146EVM used for?

The ADS1146EVM is an evaluation module for the ADS1146 16-bit delta-sigma ADC. It enables hardware validation, firmware development, and system-level testing of sensor measurement circuits - especially for RTD, thermocouple, and thermistor interfaces. The module provides full access to the ADS1146's SPI interface, analog inputs, power domains, and configuration pins, allowing engineers to verify timing, noise performance, gain accuracy, and burnout detection before final PCB layout.

Does the ADS1146EVM support internal voltage reference?

No, the ADS1146EVM does not support internal voltage reference because the ADS1146 itself lacks an integrated reference. Unlike the ADS1147 and ADS1148, the ADS1146 requires external REFP and REFN connections. The ADS1146EVM provides dedicated test points and jumpers for external reference sourcing but omits VREFOUT and VREFCOM circuitry - aligning precisely with the ADS1146's architecture as specified in the SBAS453G datasheet.

Can the ADS1146EVM be used with other ADS114x devices?

The ADS1146EVM is mechanically and electrically optimized for the ADS1146 in TSSOP-16 packaging and is not directly compatible with ADS1147 (TSSOP-20) or ADS1148 (TSSOP-28/VQFN-32). Pin count, pinout, and feature set differ significantly - notably, the ADS1146 has no GPIOs, no IDACs, and only one differential input pair. While some signal routing overlaps exist, substitution would require redesign of the socket, power distribution, and firmware initialization sequences.

What are the key hardware features of the ADS1146EVM?

The ADS1146EVM includes a socketed ADS1146 TSSOP-16 IC, on-board LDOs for AVDD/DVDD/AVSS, LED indicators for DRDY and power status, test points for all analog and digital signals, solder jumpers for burnout current selection and VBIAS enablement, and standard 0.1-inch headers for SPI and control lines. It supports both unipolar (2.7–5.25 V) and bipolar (±2.5 V) analog supplies and provides direct access to START, RESET, and CLK pins for flexible timing control during evaluation.

Where can I find schematics and user guide for the ADS1146EVM?

Official schematics, BOM, layout files, and the ADS1146EVM User's Guide (SLAU429) are available on the Texas Instruments product folder for ADS1146EVM. These documents detail jumper configurations, power sequencing requirements, SPI timing constraints, and recommended calibration procedures - all validated against the ADS1146's electrical specifications in SBAS453G. Aetrix Electronics provides direct links to these TI resources upon request.