Texas Instruments ADS1235EVM

Overview

ADS1235EVM from Texas Instruments is an evaluation module kit designed to support hardware and software evaluation of the ADS1235 24-bit delta-sigma analog-to-digital converter (ADC). It integrates the TM4C1294NCPDT microcontroller for SPI communication with the ADC and USB interface to PC, includes onboard unipolar/bipolar analog supplies (5 V / ±2.5 V), 3.3-V digital supply, analog input terminal blocks, and fault LED indication.

For engineers reviewing the ADS1235EVM datasheet, ADS1235EVM pinout, ADS1235EVM application, or ADS1235EVM equivalent, this page delivers verified hardware configuration details, jumper/switch mapping, USB-powered operation, SPI register control capability, and GUI-based calibration and data acquisition workflows - all specific to the ADS1235EVM platform.

Technical Context

The ADS1235EVM implements a dedicated evaluation architecture centered on the TM4C1294NCPDT microcontroller, which manages bidirectional SPI communication with the ADS1235 ADC and bridges to PC via USB CDC virtual COM port. The board supports both unipolar (AVDD = 5 V, AVSS = GND) and bipolar (AVDD = +2.5 V, AVSS = –2.5 V) analog supply configurations via S1 switch.

Hardware features include configurable analog input headers (J2, J4) compatible with ADS1235 input pins AIN0–AIN5 and REFP0/REFN0, digital interface header J6 exposing all critical ADC signals (nDRDY, SCLK, nCS, DIN/DOUT, START, nPWDN, nRESET), and test points for AVDD, DVDD, and reference rail current measurement using R33 and R38.

Key Specifications

Availability

ADS1235EVM is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for precision sensor evaluation, industrial weigh-scale prototyping, and high-resolution bridge measurement system development requiring stable component supply and validated reference design integration.

Supply support for ADS1235EVM 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 signal chain solutions, with leadership in precision data converters and evaluation platforms.

The ADS1235EVM belongs to TI's Delta-Sigma ADC Evaluation Module family, engineered specifically to accelerate evaluation and firmware development for high-accuracy, low-noise 24-bit ADCs used in weigh scales, strain gauges, and precision industrial sensing.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the ADS1235EVM?

The ADS1235EVM is a dedicated evaluation module that enables full hardware and software assessment of the ADS1235 24-bit delta-sigma ADC. It provides SPI-controlled register access, real-time conversion result readback, self/system calibration, fault monitoring via STATUS register, and USB-connected GUI interaction - all implemented through the onboard TM4C1294NCPDT microcontroller. The ADS1235EVM does not operate as a standalone ADC but serves exclusively as a validated reference platform for ADS1235 integration.

Does the ADS1235EVM require external power or is it USB-powered?

The ADS1235EVM is fully USB-powered - no external power supply is required for standard operation. It draws power from the USB 2.0 micro-B interface to generate onboard 5-V analog (AVDD/AVSS), ±2.5-V bipolar rails (when S1 is set left), and 3.3-V digital (DVDD) supplies. Jumpers JP2–JP4 configure USB-derived power routing, and test points A+/A– and D+/D– allow current measurement of AVDD and DVDD rails without modification.

How does the ADS1235EVM connect to a PC and what software is needed?

The ADS1235EVM connects to a PC via included USB micro cable and enumerates as a CDC virtual COM port. Required software includes the Delta-Sigma ADC EvaluaTIon GUI installer (DELTASIGMAEVAL-GUI) and the ADS1235EVM-specific device package (ADS1235EVM-DVCPKG), both downloadable from ti.com/tool/ads1235evm. After installation, the GUI automatically detects the ADS1235EVM and displays the ADS1235 register map, enabling real-time register manipulation and data collection.

Can the ADS1235EVM be used with an external microcontroller instead of the onboard TM4C1294NCPDT?

Yes - the ADS1235EVM supports external processor control via the J6 digital interface header, which exposes all essential ADS1235 signals: nDRDY, SCLK, nCS, DIN/DOUT, START, nPWDN, and nRESET. To disable the onboard TM4C1294NCPDT, install a jumper on JP1 to hold the processor in reset and tri-state level shifters. This configuration allows direct SPI control of the ADS1235 while retaining full analog front-end functionality including terminal block inputs and supply regulation.

What analog input connections does the ADS1235EVM provide for the ADS1235?

The ADS1235EVM provides two analog input terminal blocks: J2 (6-pin) maps to ADS1235 AIN5–AIN0, and J4 (3-pin) maps to REFP0, REFN0, and DGND/AVSS. These headers route signals through RC filters per ADS1235 requirements and are electrically isolated from the TM4C1294NCPDT. Input voltage must remain within ADS1235 absolute maximum ratings - e.g., AINx must stay between AVSS – 0.3 V and AVDD + 0.3 V - and common-mode limits apply when using external excitation sources.