Texas Instruments ADS1146EVM-PDK

Overview

ADS1146EVM-PDK from Texas Instruments is a dedicated evaluation module for the ADS1146 16-bit, 2-kSPS delta-sigma ADC with programmable gain amplifier (PGA), external reference support, and single-differential input channel - designed for precision RTD, thermocouple, and bridge sensor front-end validation in industrial temperature measurement systems.

For engineers reviewing the ADS1146EVM-PDK datasheet, ADS1146EVM-PDK pinout, ADS1146EVM-PDK application, or ADS1146EVM-PDK equivalent, this kit provides hardware-validated signal chain configuration, SPI interface timing compliance, on-board reference routing, burn-out detection setup, and PGA gain calibration support - enabling rapid prototyping of low-noise, high-accuracy sensor digitization without custom PCB design.

Technical Context

The ADS1146EVM-PDK implements the ADS1146's full functional interface: it routes AINP/AINN differential inputs to screw terminals and test points, exposes all SPI signals (SCLK, DIN, DOUT/DRDY, CS, START, RESET), supplies AVDD/DVDD/AVSS/DGND with decoupling, and supports external reference connection via REFP/REFN headers. It does not include internal voltage reference or IDACs - consistent with the ADS1146's architecture.

Board-level features align precisely with ADS1146 specifications: unipolar/bipolar analog supply range (2.7 V–5.25 V / ±2.5 V), 20 SPS simultaneous 50/60 Hz rejection, single-cycle settling digital filter, and programmable PGA gains (1–128 V/V). No GPIO, excitation current sources, or multiplexer functionality is implemented - matching the ADS1146's minimal 1-channel, no-IDAC, no-GPIO feature set.

Key Specifications

Availability

ADS1146EVM-PDK is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial temperature sensing, factory automation sensor validation, and RTD/thermocouple signal chain development requiring stable component supply, traceable sourcing, and long-term evaluation platform continuity.

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

The ADS1146EVM-PDK belongs to TI's Precision ADC Evaluation Module family, engineered specifically to accelerate hardware validation and firmware integration of the ADS114x series in high-accuracy sensor measurement applications.

FAQ

What is the ADS1146EVM-PDK used for?

The ADS1146EVM-PDK is a Texas Instruments evaluation module designed exclusively for hardware and firmware validation of the ADS1146 16-bit delta-sigma ADC. It provides direct access to all ADS1146 pins, supports external reference connection, enables PGA gain configuration, and facilitates burn-out detection setup - allowing engineers to verify signal integrity, SPI communication timing, and sensor front-end performance before committing to custom PCB design. The ADS1146EVM-PDK does not operate standalone; it requires connection to a host microcontroller or USB-to-SPI adapter for control and data capture.

Does the ADS1146EVM-PDK include an internal voltage reference?

No, the ADS1146EVM-PDK does not include an internal voltage reference. This matches the ADS1146 device specification, which relies solely on an external differential reference applied to REFP and REFN pins. The board provides a dedicated header for external reference connection but omits VREFOUT and VREFCOM circuitry - unlike ADS1147/ADS1148 EVMs. Users must supply a stable, low-noise external reference (e.g., REF5025 or similar) within the ADS1146's supported range (0.5 V to AVDD–AVSS–1 V) for accurate conversion.

Can the ADS1146EVM-PDK be used with the ADS1147 or ADS1148 ICs?

No, the ADS1146EVM-PDK is not compatible with the ADS1147 or ADS1148 ICs. Its layout, pin mapping, and onboard circuitry are strictly optimized for the 16-pin TSSOP package and feature set of the ADS1146 - including only AINP/AINN inputs, no IDAC outputs, no GPIO pins, and no internal reference support. ADS1147 and ADS1148 require different pinouts (20-pin and 28-pin TSSOP, respectively), additional I/O routing, IDAC connections, and reference output handling - making them mechanically and electrically incompatible with this board.

What power supplies are required for the ADS1146EVM-PDK?

The ADS1146EVM-PDK requires two independent power supplies: AVDD (2.7 V to 5.25 V) for the analog section and DVDD (2.7 V to 5.25 V) for the digital interface, each referenced to their respective grounds (AVSS and DGND). These can be supplied via the board's terminal blocks or onboard test points. Decoupling capacitors (0.1 µF) are pre-installed per TI's ADS1146 layout guidelines. Bipolar operation (±2.5 V AVDD/AVSS) is supported but requires careful grounding and reference selection - the board provides no level-shifting or isolation circuitry.

How is SPI communication configured on the ADS1146EVM-PDK?

SPI communication on the ADS1146EVM-PDK follows the ADS1146's native protocol: CS (active-low chip select), SCLK (serial clock), DIN (data in), and DOUT/DRDY (bidirectional data out / data ready indicator). All signals are accessible via 0.1"-spaced headers and labeled test points. DRDY functionality is exposed as both a dedicated pin and multiplexed with DOUT, supporting either interrupt-driven or polling-based firmware implementations. Timing complies with ADS1146's tSCLK (488 ns min), tCSSC (10 ns), and tDTS (1 × tCLK) requirements when driven by a compliant host controller.