Texas Instruments ADS1174EVM-PDK

Overview

ADS1174EVM-PDK from Texas Instruments is a plug-in evaluation kit for the ADS1174 16-bit, 4-channel delta-sigma analog-to-digital converter (ADC), comprising the ADS1174EVM board, MMB0 motherboard, USB interface, and ADCPro™ software. It supports full-feature evaluation including TDM-mode multi-channel data capture, real-time FFT/scope/histogram analysis, and configurable clock, format, and power modes.

For engineers reviewing the ADS1174EVM-PDK datasheet, ADS1174EVM-PDK pinout, ADS1174EVM-PDK application, or ADS1174EVM-PDK equivalent, this kit delivers turnkey validation of high-precision, low-noise data acquisition systems-especially where SPI/FSYNC digital interface control, onboard ±10V bipolar supply generation, and reference flexibility (REF3125/REF5025/external) are critical to system-level ADC characterization.

Technical Context

The ADS1174EVM-PDK integrates the ADS1174EVM evaluation module with the MMB0 motherboard to enable PC-based USB-controlled evaluation via ADCPro™ software. It uses an I2C port expander (U17/U18) to manage GPIO, mode, format, and clock-source selection-replacing manual DIP switches used in standalone operation.

Digital interface operates in frame-sync (FS) mode by default, supporting 4-channel TDM output on DOUT1, with configurable SPI compatibility via S12 switch. Analog input paths include direct connection (J9/J7) or OPA1632-buffered paths selectable per channel via S2–S5, and reference selection between REF3125 (2.5V), REF5025 (2.5V), or external differential source.

Key Specifications

Availability

ADS1174EVM-PDK is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for precision sensor signal conditioning, industrial process monitoring, and audio test equipment requiring stable component supply, full evaluation toolchain support, and TI-validated reference designs.

Supply support for ADS1174EVM-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 headquartered in Dallas, Texas, delivering analog, embedded processing, and connectivity solutions for industrial, automotive, and communications markets.

The ADS1174EVM-PDK belongs to TI's precision data acquisition evaluation platform family, designed specifically to accelerate development and validation of high-resolution delta-sigma ADC applications in laboratory and production test environments.

FAQ

What is the ADS1174EVM-PDK and how does it differ from the standalone ADS1174EVM?

The ADS1174EVM-PDK is a complete plug-in evaluation kit that bundles the ADS1174EVM board, MMB0 motherboard, USB interface, and ADCPro™ software. Unlike the standalone ADS1174EVM-which requires external host control-the ADS1174EVM-PDK enables immediate PC-based evaluation via USB and software-driven configuration of clock, format, and power modes. The ADS1174EVM-PDK replaces manual DIP switches with I2C-controlled GPIOs and defaults to frame-sync mode for seamless TDM data capture.

Which ADC device does the ADS1174EVM-PDK evaluate, and what are its key electrical specifications?

The ADS1174EVM-PDK evaluates the ADS1174-a 16-bit, 4-channel, delta-sigma analog-to-digital converter with up to 50 kSPS sampling rate, 85 dB SNR, and integrated programmable gain amplifier support. Its core specs include differential input architecture, 2.5V internal reference options (REF3125/REF5025), and flexible digital interface timing compatible with both frame-sync and SPI protocols-fully exposed and controllable through the ADS1174EVM-PDK hardware and ADCPro™ interface.

Does the ADS1174EVM-PDK support external voltage references, and how is reference selection implemented?

Yes, the ADS1174EVM-PDK supports external differential voltage references via the EXTREFP and EXTREFN pins on J9. Reference selection is implemented using switch S1 (onboard vs. external) and jumper J1 (REF3125 vs. REF5025). When S1 is set to the right position, the EVM routes the external reference directly to the ADS1174's REFP/REFN inputs-enabling evaluation under custom reference conditions without modifying the board layout or firmware. This capability is fully operational in both standalone and ADS1174EVM-PDK configurations.

Can the ADS1174EVM-PDK be used with processors other than the MMB0, and what interface signals are exposed?

Yes-the ADS1174EVM board within the ADS1174EVM-PDK is modular and compatible with other TI interface boards (e.g., 5-6KINTERFACE, HPA-MCUINTERFACE) or custom hosts. All critical interface signals are exposed via standardized connectors: J5 (3.3V CMOS/I2C serial control), J2 (DOUT1–DOUT4 data outputs), J9/J7 (analog inputs), and J18 (external clock input). The ADS1174EVM-PDK retains full pin compatibility and signal access, allowing engineers to validate integration into non-MMBO systems while leveraging the same PCB design and component bill of materials.

What software tools and drivers are required to operate the ADS1174EVM-PDK, and are they freely available?

The ADS1174EVM-PDK requires Texas Instruments' ADCPro™ software and the ADS1174EVM-PDK-specific plug-in-both freely downloadable from ti.com. It also depends on NI-VISA™ USB drivers (included in ADCPro installer) and Microsoft Windows USB drivers (automatically installed on first connection). No license fees or subscriptions are required. The ADS1174EVM-PDK plug-in version 1.0.0 and later support Windows XP and newer OS versions, and provide built-in scope, FFT, histogram, and text-file export functionality-all accessible without additional third-party tools.