Texas Instruments ADS4226EVM

Overview

ADS4226EVM from Texas Instruments is an evaluation module designed to accelerate development and characterization of the ADS4226 dual-channel, 12-bit, 250-MSPS analog-to-digital converter. It supports DDR LVDS and parallel CMOS output modes, integrates THS4509 input op-amps and CDCE72010 clock synthesizer options, and interfaces directly with TI's TSW1400 high-speed data capture card for real-time waveform analysis.

For engineers reviewing the ADS4226EVM datasheet, ADS4226EVM pinout, ADS4226EVM application, or ADS4226EVM equivalent, this EVM enables rapid validation of ADC performance metrics-including SNR, SFDR, and ENOB-at full speed under configurable analog input, clocking, and digital output conditions.

Technical Context

The ADS4226EVM implements a complete signal chain for the ADS4226 ADC, featuring transformer-coupled or OPA-driven (THS4509) analog inputs, selectable clock sources (external LVDS/LVCMOS or on-board CDCE72010), and dual-output path configuration (DDR LVDS via U12/U13 or 1.8-V parallel CMOS via J1/J2). It supports both serial (SPI) and parallel pin-control register programming.

Board-level flexibility includes jumper-selectable power domains (LDO vs. external buffer), offset correction control, gain adjustment per channel, SNRBoost enable/disable, and high/low-speed mode selection-directly mirroring the ADS4226's functional register set through a USB-connected GUI interface.

Key Specifications

Availability

ADS4226EVM is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-speed data acquisition systems, radar front-end prototyping, and communications test equipment requiring stable component supply and validated reference design support.

Supply support for ADS4226EVM 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 converter technologies, with decades of leadership in precision ADC/DAC design and evaluation platforms.

The ADS42xx EVM product line was developed to provide turnkey hardware and software validation environments for TI's high-speed dual-channel ADC families, enabling system-level performance verification without custom board design.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the ADS4226EVM?

The ADS4226EVM is an evaluation module built specifically for the ADS4226 dual-channel, 12-bit, 250-MSPS analog-to-digital converter. It provides a fully assembled, tested platform with configurable analog input, clocking, and digital output paths-enabling engineers to characterize dynamic performance (SNR, SFDR, ENOB), validate timing margins, and integrate the ADS4226 into end systems using TI's TSW1400 capture card and HSDC Pro software. The ADS4226EVM itself is not a production component but a development tool.

Does the ADS4226EVM support both LVDS and CMOS digital outputs?

Yes, the ADS4226EVM supports both output formats via hardware reconfiguration. By default, it is configured for DDR LVDS output. To switch to 1.8-V parallel CMOS, users must install SN74AVC16T245 buffers (U12/U13), remove RN5–RN12, and shunt JP26/JP27-per Table 5 in the SLAU333A user's guide. CMOS data is then routed to 40-pin connectors J1 (Channel A) and J2 (Channel B), preserving full 12-bit resolution and 250-MSPS throughput.

Can the ADS4226EVM generate its own clock signal?

No-the ADS4226EVM does not generate clocks autonomously, but it supports on-board clock synthesis via the CDCE72010 programmable clock generator. When configured with a 983.04-MHz VCXO and 10-MHz reference input at J19, the CDCE72010 outputs a 245.76-MHz LVCMOS clock; with a 491.52-MHz VCXO, it outputs 122.88 MHz. This clock passes through an on-board crystal BPF (Y0) before driving the ADS4226, eliminating need for external high-frequency clock sources during evaluation.

How is the ADS4226EVM controlled and programmed?

The ADS4226EVM is controlled via a Windows-based GUI installed from the ADS58C28_ADS42xx_Installer_vxpx package. The software communicates over USB to configure all ADS4226 registers-including gain (ChA/ChB), data format (2's complement/offset binary), output mode (LVDS/CMOS), SNRBoost, high/low-speed modes, and offset correction. Register settings are grouped into Top Level (common functions) and Advanced (full address/data access) tabs, with Save/Load capability for reproducible test setups.

Is the ADS4226EVM compatible with other ADCs in the ADS42xx family?

Yes-the ADS4226EVM is part of the unified ADS42xx EVM Rev B platform, mechanically and electrically compatible with ADS4222, ADS4225, ADS4229, ADS4242, ADS4245, ADS4249, and ADS42JB69. Jumper configurations (e.g., JP14 for DDR LVDS, JP5–JP7 for CTRL pins) and GUI firmware support multiple devices, allowing one board to evaluate several members of the dual-channel, 12-/14-bit, up-to-250-MSPS family without hardware modification.