Texas Instruments ADS6142EVM

Overview

ADS6142EVM from Texas Instruments is an evaluation module designed to characterize the ADS6142, a 14-bit, 65-MSPS low-power analog-to-digital converter (ADC), under configurable analog input, clock, reference, and supply conditions. It supports CMOS parallel output, offset-binary data format, and offers dual analog input paths - transformer-coupled and THS4509-based differential amplification - with jumper-selectable gain, reference, and operation mode.

For engineers reviewing the ADS6142EVM datasheet, ADS6142EVM pinout, ADS6142EVM application, or ADS6142EVM equivalent, this page delivers verified hardware configuration details, FPGA interface guidance (TSW1100/TSW1200), SPI register control workflow, clock distribution via CDCP1803, and ADC performance evaluation best practices including coherent sampling and jitter-sensitive signal sourcing.

Technical Context

The ADS6142EVM implements a four-layer FR-4 PCB with split ground plane, supporting both single-ended (via J8 SMA) and amplified differential (via J10 SMA + THS4509 path) analog inputs. Input biasing is managed by the ADS6142's internal VCM output or external voltage dividers, enabling dc- or ac-coupled configurations.

It provides dual clock input options: transformer-coupled single-ended-to-differential conversion (T3) and LVDS fanout via CDCP1803 (1:3 distribution), with jumper-selectable routing (JP2–JP4). Digital outputs are routed to a Samtec QSO-060-01-F-D-A high-density connector (J10) for logic analyzer or FPGA capture, supporting CMOS-level parallel data transfer at up to 65 MSPS.

Key Specifications

Availability

ADS6142EVM is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-speed data acquisition systems, RF receiver prototyping, and precision instrumentation requiring stable component supply, traceable evaluation hardware, and documented ADC characterization workflows.

Supply support for ADS6142EVM 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 converters, with broad design resources and application expertise in signal chain solutions.

The ADS61xx EVM series belongs to TI's high-speed ADC evaluation platform family, engineered to accelerate validation of pipeline ADCs in communications, test equipment, and medical imaging applications where SNR, SFDR, and jitter sensitivity are critical.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the ADS6142EVM?

The ADS6142EVM is a dedicated evaluation module for the ADS6142 14-bit, 65-MSPS analog-to-digital converter. It enables engineers to assess dynamic performance metrics-including SNR, SFDR, and ENOB-under real-world signal, clock, power, and interface conditions. The ADS6142EVM provides configurable analog input paths, flexible clock routing, parallel CMOS output access, and SPI-based register control, all documented in SLAU206B. Its design directly supports validation of the ADS6142 in high-fidelity data acquisition systems.

Which FPGA development platforms are natively supported by the ADS6142EVM?

The ADS6142EVM natively interfaces with TI's TSW1200 FPGA platform via direct connector mating and supports the TSW1100 capture board using the included CMOS breakout board. For TSW1100, users must update the Supported_ADCs.txt file and configure the ADS6142EVM in CMOS output mode (J1 set to Offset Binary, CMOS). For TSW1200, no adapter is needed; the Virtex-4 FPGA can be reprogrammed for custom deserialization or SPI control-requiring specific jumper and resistor modifications as outlined in Section 4.2 of SLAU206B.

How do I configure the ADS6142EVM for SPI register control instead of parallel mode?

To enable SPI control of the ADS6142 on the ADS6142EVM, reconfigure four jumpers: move J3 to positions 1–2 (serial mode), J6 to 1–2 (USB/FPGA SDATA control), J7 to 1–2 (USB/FPGA SCLK control), and J2 to 1–2 (USB/FPGA SEN control). Also supply 5 V to J20 to power the USB interface circuitry. After installing the TI ADC SPI Control Software and connecting the USB cable, the GUI allows full read/write access to ADS6142 registers-including reset, data format, reference selection, and course gain-as listed in Table 4 of SLAU206B.

Does the ADS6142EVM support differential clock input, and how is it implemented?

Yes, the ADS6142EVM supports differential clock input through two independent paths. First, a single-ended clock applied to SMA connector J9 is converted to differential using transformer T3. Second, a low-jitter square-wave clock can drive the CDCP1803 clock distributor (enabled via JP8 and JP2–JP4), which provides 1:3 LVDS fanout. The CDCP1803 path is optimized for first-Nyquist-zone operation due to jitter accumulation at higher input frequencies. Both paths feed the ADS6142's differential CLK/CLK̅ inputs, ensuring robust timing integrity during high-speed evaluation of the ADS6142.

What analog input configurations does the ADS6142EVM support, and how are they selected?

The ADS6142EVM supports two analog input configurations: transformer-coupled (default, via J8) and THS4509-based active differential amplification (via J10). Selection is made using surface-mount jumpers JP5 and JP6 (set to 2–3 for THS4509 path). For the THS4509 path, users choose dc- or ac-coupling: dc-coupling requires populating R21 (0-Ω) and setting J20/J16 to 4 V/–1 V; ac-coupling uses R37/R45 for common-mode bias and C75/C77 for coupling. Both paths retain compatibility with the ADS6142's internal VCM for input biasing, as detailed in Section 2.2.3 of SLAU206B.