Texas Instruments ADS1230REF

Overview

ADS1230REF from Texas Instruments is a reference design board built around the ADS1230 20-bit delta-sigma ADC, intended for weigh-scale digitizer evaluation and low-noise precision measurement. It integrates load cell interface circuitry, an eight-digit starburst LCD, USB firmware update capability, low-side excitation switching, and EMI/RFI suppression - enabling immediate functional validation of the ADS1230 in industrial weighing systems.

For engineers reviewing the ADS1230REF datasheet, ADS1230REF pinout, ADS1230REF application, or ADS1230REF equivalent, this board supports real-time RMS/peak-to-peak noise analysis, two-point calibration, autoranging voltage display (nV to V), configurable averaging (2–128 samples), and direct ADS1230 register configuration via serial console or PC software.

Technical Context

The ADS1230REF implements a complete signal chain for bridge sensor interfacing: it conditions and digitizes differential analog inputs from 4- or 6-wire load cells using the ADS1230's internal PGA (gain = 64 or 128), programmable data rate (FAST/SLOW), and 20-bit resolution. Reference selection is configurable between +5VA and EXT for ratiometric or external reference operation.

Firmware v1.1.0 enables three operating modes - Scale (mass calculation with tare/range/calibration), Analysis (raw code, RMS noise, peak-to-peak, ENOB), and Configuration (parameter editing). All settings - including calibration constants, display units, and ADC speed - persist in internal flash memory after power cycle.

Key Specifications

Availability

ADS1230REF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial weighing system development, precision sensor evaluation, and delta-sigma ADC validation requiring stable component supply, traceable sourcing, and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for ADS1230REF 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 and sensor signal conditioning.

The ADS1230REF belongs to TI's Precision Analog Reference Design portfolio, created to accelerate development of high-accuracy weigh-scale and bridge-sensor measurement systems using the ADS1230 ADC.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the ADS1230REF?

The ADS1230REF is a fully assembled reference design board that demonstrates and evaluates the ADS1230 20-bit delta-sigma ADC in weigh-scale applications. It provides hardware for load cell interfacing, real-time noise analysis, two-point calibration, and mass calculation - all implemented on a single PCB with LCD display and USB connectivity. The ADS1230REF enables rapid validation of the ADS1230's performance without custom hardware design.

Can the ADS1230REF operate with both 4-wire and 6-wire load cells?

Yes, the ADS1230REF supports both 4-wire and 6-wire load cells via dual connection options: a terminal block for stripped-wire connections and a header connector with integrated low-side excitation switching. For 6-wire configurations, the reference select switch must be set to EXT to use the sense wire for ratiometric reference, improving accuracy over long cable runs. The ADS1230REF User's Guide provides detailed wiring diagrams for each configuration.

How does the ADS1230REF handle calibration and parameter storage?

The ADS1230REF performs two-point calibration (zero and full-scale) in Scale mode, storing calibration constants, display units, averaging count, and ADC speed settings in internal flash memory. Parameters are saved using the SAVE? command in Configuration mode and automatically reload on power-up or reset. This ensures consistent operation across sessions without reconfiguration - a key feature of the ADS1230REF for repeatable lab and field testing.

What noise measurement capabilities does the ADS1230REF provide?

The ADS1230REF calculates input-referred RMS noise and peak-to-peak noise directly from ADS1230 output codes in Analysis mode. It displays results in volts, codes, or effective number of bits (ENOB), with user-selectable sample counts (default 50). A shorted-input test is supported via jumpers J7/J8, and firmware v1.1.0 includes real-time noise computation - making the ADS1230REF a practical tool for verifying ADS1230's 100 nV RMS noise specification.

Is USB connectivity on the ADS1230REF used only for firmware updates?

No - USB on the ADS1230REF serves multiple functions beyond firmware updates: it enables remote control of all operating modes, real-time datalogging, histogram visualization, and device configuration via TI-provided PC software. The USB interface also supports serial console access for low-level ADS1230 register reads/writes, allowing full evaluation of the underlying ADC without modifying the ADS1230REF hardware or firmware.