Analog Devices Inc. DC1010A-A

Overview

LTC2493 from Analog Devices (formerly Linear Technology) is a 24-bit, 4-channel delta-sigma ADC with I²C interface, Easy Drive input current cancellation, integrated temperature sensor, and programmable 50/60Hz rejection. It supports up to 2 differential or 4 single-ended inputs, delivers 600nV RMS noise, 2ppm INL, and operates from 2.7V to 5.5V - ideal for high-accuracy sensor digitization in industrial process control and instrumentation.

For engineers reviewing the LTC2493 datasheet, LTC2493 pinout, LTC2493 application, or LTC2493 equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, validated pin functions, real-world use scenarios, and two confirmed alternative parts with documented functional and application differences.

Technical Context

The LTC2493 employs a 3rd-order delta-sigma modulator with decimating FIR filter and auto-calibration per conversion cycle, eliminating latency and ensuring first-conversion validity after channel change. Its patented Easy Drive architecture cancels differential input current without on-chip buffers, enabling rail-to-rail input signals and direct connection of high-impedance sensors.

It integrates a PTAT-based temperature sensor (1/30°C resolution, ±2°C absolute accuracy), internal oscillator (307.2kHz nominal), and configurable I²C address pins (CA0/CA1) supporting nine device addresses plus global sync. Input common-mode range spans GND to VCC independent of reference voltage.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

14-lead (4mm × 3mm) plastic DFN package with exposed pad (Pin 15 = GND, must be soldered).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar high-resolution sigma-delta ADC applications.

Compared with ADS124S08 and MAX11206, the LTC2493 uniquely combines I²C simplicity, zero-differential-input-current operation, and per-conversion auto-calibration - making it optimal for compact, low-power, high-accuracy sensor nodes where layout space and firmware overhead are constrained.

Availability

LTC2493 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial process control, precision instrumentation, portable environmental monitoring, and medical sensor signal conditioning requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges (–40°C to 85°C).

Supply support for LTC2493 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 acquired Linear Technology in 2017 and maintains its high-precision analog product lines, including delta-sigma ADCs renowned for metrology-grade accuracy and robust noise immunity.

The LTC2493 belongs to Linear's No Latency ∆∑ ADC family, designed specifically for direct sensor digitization in EMI-prone environments where traditional buffered ADCs fail due to input current errors and filter delay.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage range supported by the LTC2493?

The LTC2493 supports an absolute input voltage range of GND – 0.3V to VCC + 0.3V on all analog pins (CH0–CH3, COM, REF+, REF–). Its common-mode input range is GND to VCC independent of reference voltage, enabling true rail-to-rail signal digitization without level-shifting circuitry - a key capability leveraged in the LTC2493's Easy Drive architecture.

Does the LTC2493 require external components for basic operation?

Yes - the LTC2493 requires a 10µF tantalum capacitor in parallel with a 0.1µF ceramic capacitor from VCC to GND, placed as close as possible to Pins 12 and 6. For I²C communication, pull-up resistors on SDA and SCL are mandatory. No external op-amps or anti-aliasing filters are needed due to the LTC2493's integrated Easy Drive front end and programmable digital filtering.

How does the LTC2493 achieve zero differential input current?

The LTC2493 uses a proprietary passive sampling network that automatically cancels differential input current through correlated double sampling and charge redistribution. This patented Easy Drive technology eliminates dynamic input current errors without on-chip buffers - allowing direct connection of high-impedance sensors like thermistors and RTDs while preserving DC accuracy and linearity specified in the LTC2493 datasheet.

Can the LTC2493 measure temperature without external components?

Yes - the LTC2493 integrates a high-accuracy PTAT temperature sensor with 1/30°C resolution and ±2°C absolute accuracy. When configured for internal temperature measurement (by writing appropriate command bits via I²C), the LTC2493 outputs calibrated temperature data directly - no external sensor, ADC, or lookup table is required. Minimum 2V reference voltage is needed for this mode.

What I²C address options does the LTC2493 support?

The LTC2493 supports nine unique I²C addresses determined by the logic states (LOW, HIGH, or floating) of CA0 and CA1 pins. These combinations yield addresses from 0x48 to 0x4E. Additionally, a global address (0x4F) enables synchronized conversion start across multiple LTC2493 devices on the same bus - a feature explicitly documented for the LTC2493 in its official datasheet.