Texas Instruments ADS1246EVM-PDK

Overview

ADS1246EVM-PDK from Texas Instruments is an evaluation module designed to accelerate development with the ADS1246 24-bit delta-sigma analog-to-digital converter. It provides a complete, ready-to-use platform for evaluating high-precision sensor signal chains-including RTD, thermocouple, and bridge measurements-with external reference support, single-cycle settling digital filtering, and SPI-compatible serial interface. The board integrates necessary power regulation, clocking, and signal conditioning for immediate prototyping.

For engineers reviewing the ADS1246EVM-PDK datasheet, ADS1246EVM-PDK pinout, ADS1246EVM-PDK application, or ADS1246EVM-PDK equivalent, this module enables rapid validation of ADS1246-based measurement systems-particularly those requiring 24-bit resolution, 2-kSPS data rates, simultaneous 50/60-Hz rejection at 20 SPS, low-noise PGA (48 nV_RMS at G=128), and external reference flexibility without internal IDACs or GPIOs.

Technical Context

The ADS1246EVM-PDK implements the ADS1246 TSSOP-16 ADC in a fully populated, test-ready configuration. It supports unipolar (2.7–5.25 V) and bipolar (±2.5 V) analog supply operation, uses an external 2.048-V reference (not integrated), and relies on the ADS1246's internal oscillator or optional external clock up to 4.5 MHz. No excitation current sources or GPIOs are present-consistent with the base ADS1246 device.

Signal routing follows TI's reference design guidelines: differential AINP/AINN inputs with burn-out detection capability, dedicated REFP/REFN pins for external reference, and full SPI interface (SCLK, DIN, DOUT/DRDY, CS, START, RESET). Power domains are isolated with separate AVDD/AVSS and DVDD/DGND paths, each decoupled per datasheet recommendations.

Key Specifications

Availability

ADS1246EVM-PDK is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for temperature sensing, pressure transducer evaluation, and factory automation prototyping requiring stable component supply and validated reference designs.

Supply support for ADS1246EVM-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 and industrial interface solutions.

The ADS1246EVM-PDK belongs to TI's precision ADC evaluation platform family, engineered specifically to simplify sensor measurement system development for high-accuracy industrial and instrumentation applications.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the ADS1246EVM-PDK?

The ADS1246EVM-PDK is an evaluation module for the ADS1246 24-bit delta-sigma ADC. It provides a fully assembled, tested hardware platform-including power regulation, signal conditioning, and SPI interface-to enable immediate characterization of the ADS1246 in sensor measurement applications such as RTDs, thermocouples, and resistive bridges. The ADS1246EVM-PDK does not contain the ADS1246 IC itself but is designed exclusively for its evaluation.

Does the ADS1246EVM-PDK include the ADS1246 IC?

Yes, the ADS1246EVM-PDK ships with the ADS1246IC pre-mounted in a TSSOP-16 package. The board is configured per TI's reference design SBAS426H, including proper decoupling, clock source selection (internal oscillator enabled by default), and differential analog input routing optimized for low-noise performance. All required jumpers and test points for ADS1246 operation are pre-installed.

Can the ADS1246EVM-PDK support internal voltage reference or excitation current sources?

No - the ADS1246EVM-PDK implements the ADS1246 device, which has no internal voltage reference or excitation current sources (IDACs). It requires an external differential reference applied to REFP/REFN pins and does not provide IEXC outputs. This distinguishes it from ADS1247EVM-PDK and ADS1248EVM-PDK, which support internal references and dual matched IDACs.

What software and drivers are compatible with the ADS1246EVM-PDK?

The ADS1246EVM-PDK is supported by Texas Instruments' Precision Studio software suite and the ADS1x4x GUI, which provide real-time register configuration, data capture, noise analysis, and filter response visualization. Firmware is delivered via USB-to-SPI bridge (included), and all communication uses standard SPI timing compliant with ADS1246 specifications. No custom drivers are needed beyond TI's provided USB CDC virtual COM port.

Is the ADS1246EVM-PDK RoHS-compliant and suitable for production use?

The ADS1246EVM-PDK is RoHS-compliant and built to TI's industrial-grade PCB and assembly standards. While intended for evaluation and design verification, its layout, BOM, and thermal design follow TI's production-ready guidelines. However, it is not qualified as a standalone production module - final system integration, safety certification, and environmental qualification must be performed per end-application requirements.