Texas Instruments ADS4122EVM

Overview

ADS4122EVM from Texas Instruments is an evaluation module designed to characterize the ADS4122 12-bit, 65-MSPS analog-to-digital converter under controlled signal, clock, reference, and power supply conditions. It supports transformer-coupled single-ended analog input (J6), external or onboard clocking (via J19 or CDCE72010 + VCXO), dual 1.8-V analog/digital supplies (LDO or switching regulator), and LVDS digital output capture via J10.

For engineers reviewing the ADS4122EVM datasheet, ADS4122EVM pinout, ADS4122EVM application, or ADS4122EVM equivalent, this page details jumper-configurable power options (TPS79618 LDO vs. TPS62562 buck), clock routing paths (direct SMA, crystal-filtered LVCMOS, or differential LVPECL), analog input modes (transformer-only or THS4509-amplified), and ADC register control via parallel or SPI interface - all critical for high-speed data converter validation.

Technical Context

The ADS4122EVM implements a modular signal chain architecture with three configurable subsystems: (1) Power delivery supporting isolated 1.8-V AVDD/DVDD rails via TPS79618 (low-noise LDO) or TPS62562 (high-efficiency buck), selectable via JP13/JP14/JP17/JP19; (2) Clock interface offering direct SMA input (J19), or programmable CDCE72010-based generation (245.76 MHz LVCMOS with crystal filter or Y1P/Y1N LVPECL); (3) Analog front-end supporting transformer-coupled input (J6 → Mini-Circuits ADT4-1WT) or THS4509 amplifier path (J9/J11 powered).

Digital interface flexibility includes parallel mode (JP12 = 1–2) using ADC control pins (SEN, DFS, OE) or SPI mode (JP11 closed, JP15 open) with TI's ADC SPI Interface software. Output data is delivered via LVDS pairs accessible at J10, requiring 100-Ω termination per pair - automatically applied when interfaced with TSW1400 evaluation hardware.

Key Specifications

Availability

ADS4122EVM is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-speed ADC validation, RF receiver characterization, and mixed-signal test bench development requiring stable component supply, traceable sourcing, and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for ADS4122EVM 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 data conversion technologies.

The ADS4122EVM belongs to TI's precision high-speed ADC evaluation platform family, engineered to accelerate design-in of pipeline ADCs in communications infrastructure, test equipment, and medical imaging systems.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the ADS4122EVM?

The ADS4122EVM is a dedicated evaluation module for the ADS4122 12-bit, 65-MSPS analog-to-digital converter. It provides full hardware configurability - including power regulation (LDO or buck), clock routing (direct or CDCE72010-generated), analog input path (transformer or THS4509 amplifier), and digital interface (parallel or SPI) - enabling comprehensive performance validation across real-world signal chain conditions. The ADS4122EVM itself contains no ADC; it hosts and interfaces with the ADS4122 device.

Which ADC devices does the ADS4122EVM support besides the ADS4122?

The ADS4122EVM is part of the shared ADS41xx/58B18EVM platform and supports multiple pin-compatible ADCs in the ADS41xx family, including ADS4126, ADS4146, ADS4128, ADS4129, ADS4149, ADS41B29, ADS41B49, and ADS58B18. All share identical mechanical layout, power architecture, clock interface options, and analog input configurations - allowing one EVM to validate multiple speed-grade and resolution variants without board redesign.

How do I configure the ADS4122EVM for default operation with the ADS4122?

To configure the ADS4122EVM for default operation: set all jumpers per Table 1-1 (e.g., JP12 = 1–2 for parallel control, JP13/JP14 = 1–2 for internal 1.8-V supply, JP17/JP19 = 1–2 for TPS62562 buck regulator); apply 3.3 V to J16; inject 1.5-Vpp sine-wave clock at J19; feed –1-dBFS analog signal at J6; and connect J10 to TSW1400 for LVDS capture. This configures transformer-coupled input, switching-regulator power, and parallel-mode ADC control - matching factory-shipped settings.

Can the ADS4122EVM generate its own clock signal?

Yes - the ADS4122EVM can generate an onboard clock using the CDCE72010 clock buffer and optional VCXO (not populated by default). When JP4 = 1–2 (VCXO enabled) and R107/R114 are installed, a 20-MHz reference at J19 drives the CDCE72010 to produce a 245.76-MHz LVCMOS clock on Y0, filtered through an external crystal filter (centered at 245.76 MHz). This eliminates dependency on external clock sources and improves phase noise performance for sensitive applications - though VCXO and filter components must be user-populated.

What software tools are required to operate the ADS4122EVM?

Two primary software tools are used with the ADS4122EVM: TI's High Speed Data Converter Pro (HSDC Pro) for FFT analysis, data capture, and test configuration (e.g., Single Tone test); and the TI ADC SPI Interface software for register-level programming when operating in SPI mode. Both require connection to a Windows PC via USB. HSDC Pro supports TSW1400 integration for automated LVDS capture, while the SPI tool enables fine-grained control of ADS4122 registers such as gain, offset, and output format - essential for calibration and advanced feature validation.