Texas Instruments ADS5481IRGCR

Overview

ADS5481IRGCR from Texas Instruments is a 16-bit, 80-MSPS analog-to-digital converter (ADC) with on-chip high-impedance analog buffer, internal reference generator, and DDR LVDS-compatible outputs. It delivers 78.4 dBFS SNR at 30 MHz input and 93 dBc SFDR at 70 MHz, operating from dual 5-V/3.3-V supplies for wireless infrastructure baseband sampling.

For engineers reviewing the ADS5481IRGCR datasheet, ADS5481IRGCR pinout, ADS5481IRGCR application, or ADS5481IRGCR equivalent, this page provides verified specifications, QFN-64 PowerPAD™ package details, spectral performance curves, power-down modes (70 mW deep sleep), and real-world use cases in multi-carrier GSM/WCDMA receivers and test instrumentation.

Technical Context

The ADS5481IRGCR employs a complementary bipolar (BiCom3) process and integrates a track-and-hold with high-impedance analog input buffer to isolate signal sources from internal switching noise. Its internal 1.2-V reference and programmable VCM output (3.1 V) simplify system-level biasing without external components.

It uses differential clock inputs (CLKP/CLKM) and outputs 16-bit data via DDR LVDS pairs (D0_1_P/M through D14_15_P/M plus DRY_P/M), with fixed 5-cycle latency and aperture jitter of 80 fs rms - enabling precise timing alignment in coherent receiver chains.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The ADS5481IRGCR is housed in a QFN-64 PowerPAD™ package (9 mm × 9 mm footprint) with exposed thermal pad (Pin 65 = AGND) for enhanced heat dissipation. Pin assignment follows TI's RGC package standard.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar high-resolution, medium-speed ADC applications.

Compared with ADS5482IRGCR and ADS5474IPAPT, the ADS5481IRGCR offers optimal balance of 16-bit resolution, 80-MSPS rate, integrated analog buffer, and low-power deep-sleep mode - making it ideal for cost- and power-sensitive wireless infrastructure and instrumentation where 125-MHz input bandwidth suffices.

Availability

ADS5481IRGCR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wireless infrastructure, test and measurement instrumentation, and software-defined radio applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for ADS5481IRGCR 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-performance data converters for industrial, automotive, and communications markets.

The ADS548x family was designed for high-ENOB, low-spur digitization in demanding RF receiver chains - targeting wireless infrastructure, radar, and precision test equipment where dynamic range and timing accuracy are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum analog input frequency supported by the ADS5481IRGCR?

The ADS5481IRGCR has an analog input bandwidth of 125 MHz (–3 dB), allowing it to accurately digitize signals up to approximately 70 MHz with minimal amplitude roll-off. This makes it suitable for IF sampling in multi-carrier GSM and WCDMA receivers. The device maintains 93 dBc SFDR at 70 MHz input under typical conditions, confirming usable performance within this band.

Does the ADS5481IRGCR require an external reference voltage?

No, the ADS5481IRGCR includes an internal 1.2-V reference generator and can operate autonomously. The REF pin (Pin 4) may be used to connect an external reference if higher precision or temperature stability is needed, but doing so requires pulling both PDWNF and PDWNS high to disable the internal reference. For most applications, the internal reference suffices.

How does the power-down functionality work on the ADS5481IRGCR?

The ADS5481IRGCR supports two power-down modes via PDWNF and PDWNS pins. Setting PDWNF = high enables light sleep (600-μs wake time, ~680 mW total power). Setting PDWNS = high enables deep sleep (6-ms wake time, 70 mW total power). Both modes retain register settings and allow rapid resumption of conversion without reconfiguration.

What is the purpose of the VCM pin on the ADS5481IRGCR?

The VCM pin (Pin 16) outputs a 3.1-V common-mode voltage derived from the internal reference, intended to bias external differential drivers feeding the INP/INM inputs. This eliminates the need for external resistor dividers or op-amps to establish proper common-mode level, simplifying design and improving matching across channels in multi-ADC systems.

Can the ADS5481IRGCR interface directly with Xilinx or Intel FPGAs?

Yes, the ADS5481IRGCR's DDR LVDS outputs (D0_1_P/M through D14_15_P/M and DRY_P/M) are compatible with standard FPGA LVDS I/O banks. With proper termination (100-Ω differential load) and timing closure for 5-cycle latency, it interfaces directly to Xilinx 7-series or Intel Cyclone V/Arria 10 devices without level-shifting or serialization logic.