Analog Devices Inc. DC1011A-B

Overview

LTC2496 from Analog Devices (formerly Linear Technology) is a 16-channel (8-differential), 16-bit No Latency ΔΣ ADC with Easy Drive input current cancellation. It delivers 2 ppm INL, 1 ppm offset error, 600 nV RMS noise, and simultaneous 50 Hz/60 Hz rejection - enabling direct digitization of rail-to-rail, high-impedance sensor signals in industrial process control systems.

For engineers reviewing the LTC2496 datasheet, LTC2496 pinout, LTC2496 application, or LTC2496 equivalent, key selection considerations include its zero differential input current architecture, integrated oscillator, QFN-38 package, and guaranteed no-missing-codes performance across –40°C to 85°C operation.

Technical Context

The LTC2496 employs a third-order delta-sigma modulator with decimating FIR filtering and on-chip autocalibration that removes offset and full-scale drift every conversion cycle. Its patented Easy Drive sampling scheme cancels dynamic differential input current without on-chip buffers, supporting direct connection of sensors with source impedances up to 100 kΩ.

It features a 4-wire SPI interface with configurable internal/external SCK mode, supports both single-ended and differential channel configurations, and provides GND-to-VCC common-mode input range independent of reference voltage - enabling flexible signal routing and shared external amplifiers via MUXOUTP/MUXOUTN terminals.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 38-lead (5 mm × 7 mm) plastic QFN with exposed pad (Pin 39 = GND). All 8 ground pins (Pins 1, 3–6, 31–33, 39) must be soldered to PCB ground plane for proper operation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar multi-channel precision ADC applications.

Compared with ADS124S08 and MAX11206, the LTC2496 uniquely combines 16-bit precision, zero differential input current, integrated oscillator, and simultaneous 50/60 Hz rejection - making it optimal for space-constrained industrial modules requiring minimal external components and robust AC-line immunity.

Availability

LTC2496 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial process control, multi-sensor data acquisition, direct temperature measurement, and instrumentation front-end applications requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges.

Supply support for LTC2496 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. (ADI) is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing technologies, serving industrial, automotive, communications, and healthcare markets.

The LTC2496 belongs to ADI's precision delta-sigma ADC product line, designed specifically for high-accuracy, low-power, multi-channel sensor digitization in harsh industrial environments - emphasizing ease of use, rail-to-rail input capability, and inherent immunity to power-line interference.

FAQ

What is the maximum source impedance the LTC2496 can drive without accuracy loss?

The LTC2496 uses Easy Drive technology to cancel differential input current, enabling accurate digitization of signals from sensors with source impedances up to 100 kΩ. This is confirmed by the +FS error vs RSOURCE plot (Figure 2498 TA01b), which shows <±20 ppm error at 100 kΩ with 5 V supply and reference. The architecture eliminates dynamic input current errors, so no external buffer is needed for most industrial transducers.

Does the LTC2496 require an external crystal or oscillator?

No, the LTC2496 includes an integrated oscillator operating at 307.2 kHz, eliminating the need for external timing components. Pin fO can be tied to GND or VCC to select internal clock mode. An external oscillator may be used for custom data rates or enhanced filter null placement, but it is optional - the internal oscillator ensures guaranteed 50 Hz/60 Hz rejection without additional BOM cost.

How does the LTC2496 handle channel switching and conversion validity?

The LTC2496 guarantees that the first conversion after selecting a new channel is valid and meets full specifications - there is no latency or filter settling delay. This "no latency" behavior is achieved via a single-cycle digital filter and per-conversion autocalibration. Channel selection is performed via SDI during the data output phase, and the next conversion result reflects the newly selected input with no invalid or transitional readings.

What is the role of MUXOUTP and MUXOUTN pins in the LTC2496?

MUXOUTP and MUXOUTN provide buffered access to the analog multiplexer output before the ADC core. They allow optional external amplifiers to be shared across all 16 input channels - reducing component count and eliminating per-channel amplifier mismatches. When not used, these pins can be shorted directly to ADCINP and ADCINN respectively, bypassing external circuitry entirely.

Can the LTC2496 operate with a reference voltage less than 2.5 V?

Yes, the LTC2496 supports reference voltages from 0.1 V to VCC. Lower reference voltages improve effective resolution (e.g., 0.1 V reference yields ~20.5-bit ENOB), though noise remains constant at 600 nV RMS. INL degrades slightly below 2.5 V (e.g., 20 ppm at 0.1 V per Electrical Characteristics table), but offset and full-scale errors remain specified down to 0.1 V - enabling high-precision low-voltage sensor interfaces.