Texas Instruments ADS5444EVM-CVAL

Overview

ADS5444EVM-CVAL from Texas Instruments is a dedicated evaluation module for the radiation-tolerant ADS5444 13-bit, 210-MSPS analog-to-digital converter (ADC), supporting differential analog input via SMA connectors, LVDS digital output via high-density Samtec header, and configurable 5-V digital buffer supply via jumper J20.

For engineers reviewing the ADS5444EVM-CVAL datasheet, ADS5444EVM-CVAL pinout, ADS5444EVM-CVAL application, or ADS5444EVM-CVAL equivalent, this page provides verified board-level specifications, power configuration requirements, signal path architecture, and TI-validated setup procedures for high-speed ADC characterization in aerospace and defense test environments.

Technical Context

The ADS5444EVM-CVAL implements dual analog input paths: one transformer-coupled (MACOM ETC1-1-13 balun) and one amplifier-based (THS9000 RF amplifiers), both converting single-ended sources to differential signals for the ADS5444. Clock input at J17 accepts up to 500 MHz single-ended sine or square wave, converted to differential by Coilcraft WBC4-1W.

Digital outputs are LVDS-compliant across 80 pins (J5), with MSB/LSB mapping specific to ADS5444 (e.g., D13_P/D13_M = LSB), requiring external 100-Ω termination per pair. Power delivery uses discrete banana jacks: J12 (5 V AVDD), J14 (3.3 V AVDD), J7 (3.3 V DVDD), and J18 (5 V amplifier supply).

Key Specifications

Availability

ADS5444EVM-CVAL is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for aerospace avionics validation, satellite payload testing, and radiation-hardened system prototyping requiring stable component supply, traceable sourcing, and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for ADS5444EVM-CVAL 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 leader specializing in analog, embedded processing, and high-reliability technologies for industrial, automotive, and aerospace applications.

The ADS5444EVM-CVAL belongs to TI's space-grade evaluation module family, designed specifically to accelerate qualification and performance validation of radiation-tolerant high-speed ADCs in mission-critical systems.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the ADS5444EVM-CVAL?

The ADS5444EVM-CVAL is an evaluation module built to characterize the ADS5444HFG/EM radiation-hardened ADC. It provides full signal chain support-including configurable analog input paths, differential clock conditioning, LVDS data capture, and discrete power routing-to enable accurate dynamic performance measurement (SNR, SFDR, ENOB) under controlled lab conditions.

How does jumper J20 configure the ADS5444EVM-CVAL for the ADS5444 device?

Jumper J20 must be shorted between pins 1 and 2 to connect 5 V to the digital output buffer of the ADS5444 on the ADS5444EVM-CVAL. This setting is mandatory for correct LVDS driver operation and distinguishes the ADS5444EVM-CVAL from ADS5463/74 variants, which require pins 2–3 for 3.3 V.

Which analog input path is default-configured on the ADS5444EVM-CVAL?

The default analog input path on the ADS5444EVM-CVAL uses the MACOM ETC1-1-13 balun (J11), configured via JP3 (pins 1–2) and JP4 (pins 2–3). This path delivers broadband 4 MHz–1 GHz performance with ≤1 dB insertion loss and requires no external biasing due to the ADC's self-biased input structure.

What power supplies are required to operate the ADS5444EVM-CVAL?

The ADS5444EVM-CVAL requires three regulated supplies: 5 V (±2.5%) to J12 (AVDD), 3.3 V (±10%) to J14 (AVDD), and 3.3 V (±10%) to J7 (DVDD). An additional 5 V supply to J18 powers the THS9000 amplifiers when using the active input path.

Can the ADS5444EVM-CVAL be used with logic analyzers?

Yes-the ADS5444EVM-CVAL supports logic analyzer interfacing via J5 and the optional TI-supplied breakout board, which includes integrated 100-Ω LVDS terminations. When using the breakout board, the ADC's DRY clock must be configured in DDR mode to correctly latch data, and pin assignments follow Table 3 in SLAU457A for ADS5444-specific MSB/LSB ordering.