Texas Instruments ADS5401EVM

Overview

ADS5401EVM from Texas Instruments is an evaluation module designed to characterize the ADS5401, a dual-channel, 12-bit analog-to-digital converter (ADC) operating at up to 800 MSPS with LVDS DDR digital outputs. It supports transformer-coupled differential analog inputs, 5-V single-rail power input, and SPI-based register configuration via USB interface.

For engineers reviewing the ADS5401EVM datasheet, ADS5401EVM pinout, ADS5401EVM application, or ADS5401EVM equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, key specifications, supply support, manufacturer background, and practical FAQs for high-speed ADC evaluation in RF, instrumentation, and communications test systems.

Technical Context

The ADS5401EVM implements a complete signal chain for evaluating the ADS5401 ADC, including dual SMA analog inputs with transformer-based differential conversion, single-ended clock input with transformer coupling, and on-board LDO regulation (1.8 V and 3.3 V) derived from a 5-V banana jack supply. It features configurable jumpers for power domain selection, trigger source routing (SMA J9, pushbutton SW2, or Samtec J11), and SPI control path (USB or FPGA).

Signal integrity is maintained via dedicated analog/digital supply domains, LVDS DDR data output on Samtec connector J11, and optional common-mode voltage (VCM) routing to transformer termination midpoints. The EVM is explicitly intended for use with TI's TSW1400/TSW1405 capture cards to perform FFT analysis, SNR, and SFDR measurements.

Key Specifications

Availability

ADS5401EVM is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for RF test equipment, high-speed instrumentation, communications baseband verification, and radar receiver development requiring stable component supply and validated evaluation infrastructure.

Supply support for ADS5401EVM 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, specializing in analog, embedded processing, and high-performance data converter technologies.

The ADS5401EVM belongs to TI's high-speed data converter evaluation platform family, engineered to accelerate validation of GHz-range sampling ADCs in demanding applications such as wireless infrastructure, test & measurement, and defense electronics.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the ADS5401EVM?

The ADS5401EVM is a hardware evaluation platform designed exclusively to assess the performance of the ADS5401 dual-channel, 12-bit, 800-MSPS analog-to-digital converter. It provides transformer-coupled analog inputs, regulated power distribution, SPI-based register control via USB, and LVDS DDR data output connectivity-enabling full characterization of dynamic parameters like SNR and SFDR when used with TI's TSW1400/TSW1405 capture cards and associated software tools.

Which ADC does the ADS5401EVM evaluate?

The ADS5401EVM evaluates the ADS5401 - a specific member of the ADS540x family - confirmed by TI's SLAU450 User's Guide, which states the EVM supports "ADS540x or ADS54T0x" devices and explicitly references ADS5401 in register files, initialization settings, and test procedures. The board's default jumper configurations, power domains, and LVDS output mapping are aligned with the ADS5401's published electrical and timing specifications.

Can the ADS5401EVM be used without a TSW1400/TSW1405 capture card?

Yes, the ADS5401EVM can operate independently for basic register configuration and analog input testing using its onboard USB-SPI interface and GUI software. However, full high-speed data capture, FFT analysis, SNR/SFDR reporting, and burst-mode evaluation require integration with the TSW1400 or TSW1405 capture card via Samtec connector J11 - as specified in TI's SLAU450 User's Guide and supported by the EVM's LVDS DDR output architecture and trigger routing options.

What power supply requirements does the ADS5401EVM have?

The ADS5401EVM requires a single 5-V DC input supplied through banana jacks J7 and J8. All internal voltages - including 1.8 V for analog and digital ADC supplies and 3.3 V for analog bias and LVDS buffer circuits - are generated on-board using TPS79601 LDO regulators. No external multi-rail supply is needed, and jumper settings (JP12–JP15) allow selective connection or isolation of each supply domain per the ADS5401's datasheet requirements.

Does the ADS5401EVM support differential clock and analog input signals?

Yes - the ADS5401EVM accepts single-ended clock input via SMA connector J1 and converts it to a differential clock signal using an onboard transformer, matching the ADS5401's differential clock requirement. Similarly, single-ended analog signals applied to SMA connectors J4 (Channel A) and J5 (Channel B) are transformer-coupled to produce balanced differential inputs, ensuring optimal phase/amplitude matching and minimizing common-mode noise - critical for achieving the ADS5401's specified dynamic performance.