Texas Instruments ADS1286PA

Overview

ADS1286PA from Texas Instruments (formerly Burr-Brown) is a 12-bit, 20kHz sampling SAR analog-to-digital converter with differential input, integrated sample-and-hold amplifier, and SPI/SSI-compatible 3-wire serial interface. It consumes only 250µA at 5V supply and operates across –40°C to +85°C, making it suitable for isolated remote data acquisition in battery-powered industrial sensor systems.

For engineers reviewing the ADS1286PA datasheet, ADS1286PA pinout, ADS1286PA application, or ADS1286PA equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, package-validated pin functions, real-world use-value mapping, and two confirmed alternative options for temperature-extended micropower ADC selection.

Technical Context

The ADS1286PA implements a successive approximation register (SAR) architecture with internal sample-and-hold, enabling precise conversion of differential analog inputs without external circuitry. Its serial interface uses DCLOCK-synchronized falling-edge data output and CS/SHDN-controlled shutdown, supporting LSB-first 12-bit transfers after one null bit.

It features guaranteed no missing codes over full scale, ±2 LSB integral linearity (–40°C to +85°C), and automatic power-down between conversions-reducing quiescent current to 3µA in shutdown mode while maintaining rail-to-rail reference input compatibility from 1.25V to 5.25V.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

ADS1286PA is housed in an 8-pin plastic mini-DIP (PDIP) package with 0.3-inch body width and through-hole mounting. Pin spacing follows JEDEC MS-001 standard, compatible with standard DIP sockets and wave-soldering processes.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 12-bit micropower SAR ADC applications.

Compared with ADS1286UA, ADS1286PA offers through-hole assembly compatibility and legacy prototyping support; compared with ADS1286PB, it provides identical performance in the same package-making ADS1286PA optimal for ruggedized, low-volume, or repair-sensitive designs.

Availability

ADS1286PA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for remote data acquisition, isolated sensor interfaces, and battery-operated instrumentation requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges.

Supply support for ADS1286PA 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 acquired Burr-Brown in 2000 and maintains its precision analog portfolio. TI is a global semiconductor leader focused on analog, embedded processing, and connectivity technologies.

The ADS1286PA belongs to TI's legacy precision data converter family, designed specifically for low-power, high-reliability industrial sensing applications where micropower operation and wide-temperature stability are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the maximum sampling rate of the ADS1286PA?

The ADS1286PA supports a maximum sampling rate of 20 kHz, as specified in the datasheet under timing characteristics. This rate assumes f_CLK = 200 kHz and proper setup/hold timing compliance. At lower clock frequencies, the effective sampling rate decreases proportionally-e.g., at 100 kHz f_CLK, max sampling drops to 10 kHz. The ADS1286PA achieves this while maintaining guaranteed no missing codes and ±2 LSB integral linearity across its full operating temperature range.

Does the ADS1286PA require an external reference voltage?

Yes, the ADS1286PA requires an external reference voltage applied to the VREF pin. It accepts references from 1.25 V to 5.25 V, with optimal performance at 5 V. The device does not include an internal reference; reference accuracy and stability directly impact overall system gain error and ENOB. For best results, use a low-noise, low-drift reference IC such as REF5050 or TL431-based circuits-especially critical when operating at reduced VREF values where offset and noise become larger fractions of LSB.

Can the ADS1286PA operate from a 3.3V supply?

No, the ADS1286PA is specified for +VCC = 4.5 V to 5.25 V only. Its absolute maximum rating is +6 V, and the digital I/O thresholds (VIH ≥ 3 V, VIL ≤ 0.8 V) assume a 5 V supply. Operating below 4.5 V risks violating timing parameters, reducing noise immunity, and invalidating guaranteed specifications-including no missing codes and linearity. For 3.3 V systems, consider TI's ADS1015 or ADS1115, which are pin-compatible 12-/16-bit I²C ADCs with 3.3 V native support.

How does the CS/SHDN pin function on the ADS1286PA?

The CS/SHDN pin on the ADS1286PA serves dual roles: when driven LOW, it enables conversion and serial data transfer; when driven HIGH, it places the device into full shutdown mode drawing only 3 µA. During shutdown, the reference input becomes high-impedance, and DOUT enters high-Z state. The ADS1286PA automatically powers down between conversions even if CS remains LOW-reducing average current-but full shutdown requires explicit logic HIGH assertion. This behavior is confirmed in the "Shutdown" section of the datasheet and validated across all temperature grades including ADS1286PA.

Is the ADS1286PA RoHS compliant?

Yes, the ADS1286PA is RoHS compliant. Per TI's Package Option Addendum (dated 11-Nov-2025), all active orderable variants-including ADS1286PA-carry "Yes" in the RoHS column. The device uses lead-free finish and meets EU Directive 2011/65/EU requirements. Note that ADS1286PA is supplied in PDIP packaging, which is exempt from certain RoHS reflow profile constraints applicable to surface-mount packages, but still fully compliant for end-product CE marking.