Analog Devices Inc. ADSP-2184NKST-320

Overview

ADSP-2184NKST-320 from Analog Devices is a 16-bit fixed-point DSP microcomputer optimized for real-time signal processing in embedded systems. It delivers 80 MIPS sustained performance at 12.5 ns instruction cycle time (1.8 V core), features 4K words of on-chip program RAM and 4K words of data RAM, dual serial ports with hardware companding, and supports full-memory and host modes via configurable boot pins.

For engineers reviewing the ADSP-2184NKST-320 datasheet, ADSP-2184NKST-320 pinout, ADSP-2184NKST-320 application, or ADSP-2184NKST-320 equivalent, key selection criteria include on-chip memory size, serial port configuration flexibility, power-down recovery timing (200 CLKIN cycles), internal DMA port access, and LQFP-100 package compatibility with legacy ADSP-2100 family designs.

Technical Context

The ADSP-2184NKST-320 implements the ADSP-2100 base architecture with three independent computational units (ALU, MAC, shifter), two dedicated data address generators (DAG1/DAG2), and a zero-overhead program sequencer supporting conditional jumps and subroutine calls in one cycle. Its 3-bus architecture enables simultaneous dual operand fetches - one from program memory and one from data memory - per instruction cycle.

It integrates two double-buffered synchronous serial ports (SPORT0/SPORT1) with programmable frame sync, 3–16-bit word length, A-law/μ-law companding per CCITT G.711, and optional UART emulation. Memory interface supports byte-wide EPROM booting, 4 MB external overlay space, and 16-bit internal DMA port for transparent on-chip RAM access.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

ADSP-2184NKST-320 is housed in a 100-lead LQFP package (14 mm × 14 mm, 0.5 mm pitch), compatible with standard surface-mount assembly processes and thermal management for industrial ambient conditions up to +85°C.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar DSP microcomputer applications.

Compared with ADSP-2184NKST-320, ADSP-2185NKST-320 and ADSP-2186NKST-320 offer scalable on-chip RAM while preserving pin compatibility, instruction set, power-down timing, and SPORT functionality - enabling memory-driven design iteration without architectural requalification.

Availability

ADSP-2184NKST-320 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for voice communications terminals, digital audio processing modules, and industrial motor control units requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.

Supply support for ADSP-2184NKST-320 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

Analog Devices, Inc. is a global semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing technologies for precision instrumentation, industrial automation, and communications infrastructure.

The ADSP-218xN series was designed as a low-power, code-compatible evolution of the ADSP-2100 family - targeting cost-sensitive, battery-operated, and real-time embedded systems requiring deterministic DSP performance in compact LQFP packages.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency and instruction cycle time for ADSP-2184NKST-320?

The ADSP-2184NKST-320 operates at a 12.5 ns instruction cycle time, corresponding to 80 MIPS sustained performance. This is achieved with a 40 MHz external clock input (CLKIN) or crystal oscillator, as the internal instruction clock runs at twice the CLKIN frequency. The device maintains this timing across its specified industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C) and 1.8 V core supply, with all instructions executing in a single cycle under normal conditions.

Does ADSP-2184NKST-320 support hardware-based audio companding?

Yes, ADSP-2184NKST-320 supports hardware A-law and μ-law companding per CCITT G.711 standard in both SPORT0 and SPORT1. This offloads CPU cycles during voice-band signal processing by performing real-time compression/expansion in dedicated logic - critical for VoIP endpoints and telephony gateways where deterministic latency and low MIPS utilization are required.

How does the power-down mode function in ADSP-2184NKST-320, and what is its wake-up latency?

ADSP-2184NKST-320 enters power-down mode via the PWD pin or software bit, reducing core power dissipation to minimal CMOS standby levels. Recovery begins immediately upon wake-up trigger (e.g., external interrupt or PWD deassertion), completing in as few as 200 CLKIN cycles - approximately 5 μs at 40 MHz. The power-down interrupt remains active and nonmaskable, enabling reliable low-power event detection.

Is ADSP-2184NKST-320 pin-compatible with other ADSP-218xN family members?

Yes, ADSP-2184NKST-320 is fully pin-compatible with all ADSP-218xN series devices, including ADSP-2185NKST-320 and ADSP-2186NKST-320, in the 100-lead LQFP package. This allows direct substitution based on on-chip memory requirements without PCB layout changes - only firmware and boot configuration may require adjustment to match the target device's RAM allocation.

What memory boot options are supported by ADSP-2184NKST-320?

ADSP-2184NKST-320 supports three boot configurations selected via MODE A–D pins: (1) BDMA boot from byte-wide external memory (e.g., EPROM), loading first 32 program words before execution; (2) IDMA host-mode boot, where an external controller writes to internal memory location 0 to initiate execution; and (3) full-memory mode executing from external address 0. All modes retain access to on-chip RAM for runtime code and data.