Texas Instruments ADS6124EVM

Overview

ADS6124EVM from Texas Instruments is an evaluation module designed to characterize the ADS6124 12-bit, 65-MSPS analog-to-digital converter under controlled analog input, clock, and supply conditions. It supports CMOS parallel output (12-bit offset binary), transformer-coupled or THS4509-amplified differential input paths, and dual-clock routing via transformer or CDCP1803 LVDS fanout. The EVM enables high-fidelity SNR and SFDR measurement for RF receiver and instrumentation signal chain validation.

For engineers reviewing the ADS6124EVM datasheet, ADS6124EVM pinout, ADS6124EVM application, or ADS6124EVM equivalent, this page provides verified hardware configuration details, jumper-defined operational modes (parallel/serial, CMOS/LVDS, internal/external reference), breakout board interface mapping, FPGA integration guidance (TSW1100/TSW1200), and ADC-specific SPI register control workflow.

Technical Context

The ADS6124EVM implements a four-layer FR-4 PCB with split ground plane, dedicated 3.3-V analog and digital supplies (shorted by default via R65), and configurable signal paths for both transformer-based and THS4509-amplified differential inputs. Input bandwidth is adjustable via R38/R46/C76 low-pass filter (70 MHz default).

Clock routing supports either single-ended-to-differential conversion via T3 transformer or 1:3 LVDS fanout using CDCP1803 - the latter validated only for first-Nyquist-zone operation due to jitter sensitivity. Digital outputs are routed to a Samtec QSO-060-01-F-D-A connector (60-pin, 2 mm pitch) compatible with logic analyzers and TI capture boards.

Key Specifications

Availability

ADS6124EVM is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for RF receiver prototyping, high-speed data acquisition system validation, and instrumentation-grade ADC performance benchmarking requiring stable component supply and documented evaluation infrastructure.

Supply support for ADS6124EVM 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 for industrial, automotive, and communications applications.

The ADS6124EVM belongs to TI's precision high-speed ADC evaluation platform family, engineered to accelerate design-in of ADS61xx-series converters in demanding signal chain applications where SNR, SFDR, and timing integrity are critical.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the ADS6124EVM?

The ADS6124EVM is a dedicated evaluation module for the ADS6124 12-bit, 65-MSPS analog-to-digital converter. It provides configurable analog input paths (transformer or THS4509 amplifier), dual clock routing options, and a standardized Samtec interface for digital output capture. Its purpose is to enable accurate characterization of ADS6124 performance metrics - including SNR, SFDR, and harmonic distortion - under real-world signal, reference, and supply conditions. The ADS6124EVM does not operate as a standalone product but serves exclusively as a test platform for the ADS6124 IC.

Which ADC models does the ADS6124EVM support besides the ADS6124?

The ADS6124EVM is part of a shared platform supporting multiple members of the ADS61xx and ADS61B23 families, including ADS6122, ADS6123, ADS6125, ADS6142–ADS6145, and ADS61B23. All share identical mechanical layout, power architecture, and interface routing. However, each model has distinct resolution (12- or 14-bit), sampling rate (up to 125 MSPS), and output format capabilities - meaning jumper configurations and software settings must be validated per specific ADC data sheet. The ADS6124EVM itself is not reconfigurable to emulate other models' electrical behavior.

How do I configure the ADS6124EVM for CMOS parallel output mode?

To configure the ADS6124EVM for CMOS parallel output, set jumper J1 to positions 5–6 (Offset Binary, CMOS output), ensure J3 is shorted at 2–3 (parallel mode), and confirm J4 is at 1–2 (0 dB gain, internal reference). Power must be applied to J11 (3.3 V digital) and J13 (3.3 V analog), with R65 installed to short the supplies. The 12-bit data bus, clock, and ground signals are then available on the Samtec QSO-060-01-F-D-A connector (J10), mapped per Table 1 in SLAU206B. The ADS6124EVM does not support LVDS output without hardware modification.

Can the ADS6124EVM be used with Xilinx FPGA development boards?

Yes - the ADS6124EVM natively interfaces with the TSW1200 FPGA platform and supports the TSW1100 via a companion breakout board. For TSW1200, no adapter is needed; the EVM plugs directly into the board's ADC interface. For TSW1100, users must install the provided breakout board between J2 (Channel 2) and the EVM's J10 connector, and update the TSW1100's Supported_ADCs.txt file with the version supplied on the ADS6124EVM CD. FPGA-controlled SPI operation requires repositioning surface-mount jumpers (JP7, JP2–JP4) and installing zero-ohm resistors per Section 4.2 of SLAU206B. The ADS6124EVM does not support direct connection to generic Xilinx dev kits without custom interface logic.

Does the ADS6124EVM include onboard SPI control capability?

Yes - the ADS6124EVM integrates a USB interface circuit powered by J20 (5 V) that enables full SPI register access to the ADS6124 using TI's ADC SPI Control Software. To activate this, jumper J3 must be moved to 1–2 (serial mode), J6 and J7 to 1–2 (USB-controlled SDATA/SCLK), and J2 to 1–2 (USB-controlled SEN). The software allows individual register writes, script-based configuration, and one-click setup of common features like reset, output format, and reference selection. This capability is exclusive to the ADS6124EVM's USB interface and is not available when operating in default parallel mode.