Texas Instruments ADS1274EVM-PDK

Overview

ADS1274EVM-PDK from Texas Instruments is a complete evaluation kit for the ADS1274 24-bit, 4-channel delta-sigma analog-to-digital converter (ADC), comprising the ADS1274EVM board, MMB0 motherboard, USB interface, and ADCPro™ evaluation software. It supports configurable analog input paths (direct or OPA1632-buffered), dual digital interfaces (SPI and frame-sync), onboard ±10V power generation, and 27MHz crystal clock source - enabling full characterization of high-precision data acquisition systems in industrial and test equipment.

For engineers reviewing the ADS1274EVM-PDK datasheet, ADS1274EVM-PDK pinout, ADS1274EVM-PDK application, or ADS1274EVM-PDK equivalent, this kit delivers validated hardware-software integration for rapid ADC performance validation, including FFT, histogram, and scope-based analysis - with no custom firmware development required.

Technical Context

The ADS1274EVM-PDK implements a modular evaluation architecture where the ADS1274EVM board hosts the ADS1274 ADC, OPA1632 input buffers, REF3125/REF5025 voltage references, and TPS73018/TPS65131 power management ICs, while the MMB0 motherboard provides USB-to-I²C/SPI bridge functionality via NI-VISA and USBSytx drivers. All digital control (mode, format, power-down) is managed through an I²C port expander (PCA9535) and software-configurable GPIOs.

It supports two primary operating modes: frame-sync (default, required for PDK operation) and SPI-compatible mode (via S12 switch), with clock sourcing options including the onboard 27MHz oscillator, external signal on J18, or processor-derived clock on J5.17 (TOUT). Analog inputs are accessible via dual-header J9/J7 (10-pin Samtec) and terminal block J7, with AGND/DGND separation maintained per high-resolution ADC layout best practices.

Key Specifications

Availability

ADS1274EVM-PDK is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for precision data acquisition, industrial process monitoring, and automated test equipment requiring stable component supply, full evaluation toolchain support, and long-term design continuity.

Supply support for ADS1274EVM-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 ADS1274EVM-PDK belongs to TI's Precision Data Acquisition Evaluation Platform family, designed to accelerate validation of high-resolution delta-sigma ADCs in noise-sensitive, multi-channel measurement applications - with emphasis on signal integrity, reference stability, and software-driven configurability.

FAQ

What is the ADS1274EVM-PDK and how does it differ from the ADS1274EVM?

The ADS1274EVM-PDK is a complete evaluation kit that includes the ADS1274EVM board, MMB0 motherboard, AC adapter, and ADCPro™ software - whereas the ADS1274EVM is the standalone PCB only. The PDK enables USB-connected, PC-controlled evaluation with real-time analysis tools; the standalone EVM requires external host interface hardware and custom firmware. ADS1274EVM-PDK integrates all necessary drivers, configuration logic, and software to eliminate low-level interface development for the ADS1274.

Which ADC does the ADS1274EVM-PDK evaluate, and what are its key electrical specifications?

The ADS1274EVM-PDK evaluates the ADS1274 - a 24-bit, 4-channel, simultaneous-sampling delta-sigma ADC with 110dB SNR, 128kSPS maximum output data rate, and integrated programmable gain amplifier (PGA) bypass capability. It supports differential analog inputs, multiple digital interface formats (frame-sync and SPI), and operates from ±10V analog supplies. ADS1274EVM-PDK validates these specs using calibrated references, low-noise power rails, and synchronized timing paths defined in the ADS1274 datasheet (SBAS367B).

Does the ADS1274EVM-PDK require external power supplies, or can it operate from USB alone?

The ADS1274EVM-PDK cannot operate from USB alone. It requires either the included 6V/3A AC adapter (which powers the MMB0, which then supplies +5V, ±10V, and 3.3V to the ADS1274EVM) or external ±10V and +5V supplies connected to the MMB0 terminal block. USB provides only communication and control - not power - to the ADS1274EVM-PDK. The onboard TPS65131 switching regulator generates ±10V from +5V, but that +5V must be supplied by the MMB0, not USB.

What software is included with the ADS1274EVM-PDK, and is it compatible with modern Windows versions?

The ADS1274EVM-PDK includes ADCPro™ software (v1.x), a Windows-based evaluation suite supporting real-time oscilloscope, FFT, histogram, and TDM channel visualization. While originally validated on Windows XP, ADCPro™ is confirmed compatible with Windows 10 and 11 via updated NI-VISA and USBSytx drivers - downloadable from TI's official support page for ADS1274EVM-PDK. ADS1274EVM-PDK software installation includes automatic driver registration and plug-in registration for seamless startup.

Can the ADS1274EVM-PDK be used without the MMB0 motherboard?

No - the ADS1274EVM-PDK is a fixed kit and requires the MMB0 motherboard for operation. The MMB0 provides essential USB-to-I²C/SPI translation, clock distribution, power regulation, and GPIO control needed for ADCPro™ software interaction. The standalone ADS1274EVM board (sold separately) may be used without MMB0, but then it functions only as a passive evaluation PCB requiring custom host hardware and firmware - and ADS1274EVM-PDK-specific features like automated mode switching, reference selection, and real-time analysis are unavailable.