Analog Devices Inc. DC1278A

Overview

DC1278A from Analog Devices (formerly Linear Technology) is a fully assembled, production-ready evaluation board for the LTC2351-14 - a 14-bit, 1.5Msps simultaneous-sampling ADC with six differential inputs. It operates from a single 3V supply, delivers 75dB SINAD at 100kHz, supports unipolar (0–2.5V) or bipolar (±1.25V) differential input ranges, and features 83dB common-mode rejection. The board enables rapid validation of high-channel-count, high-precision data acquisition in power monitoring and motor control systems.

For engineers reviewing the DC1278A datasheet, DC1278A pinout, DC1278A application, or DC1278A equivalent, this page provides verified hardware configuration details, supported interface modes (SPI), on-board reference and power management, channel selection logic implementation, and real-world timing behavior confirmed via oscilloscope-tested waveforms - all critical for system-level integration and firmware development.

Technical Context

The DC1278A implements the LTC2351-14 in its 32-pin QFN (5mm × 5mm) package with full analog signal conditioning, including matched RC filters on all six differential input pairs, dedicated 2.5V reference regulation, and isolated digital/analog ground planes. It supports all three power modes - Active (5.5mA), Nap (1.5mA), and Sleep (12μW) - with hardware-selectable CONV/SCK sequencing and jumper-configurable BIP/SELx logic states.

Board-level design enforces strict layout rules per the LTC2351-14 datasheet: 10μF + 0.1μF VREF bypassing to exposed pad GND, separate OVDD/VDD routing for SDO drive level control, and Kelvin-connected analog grounds for CH0–CH5. Timing-critical signals (CONV, SCK, SDO) are length-matched and impedance-controlled to preserve aperture skew <200ps across channels.

Key Specifications

Availability

DC1278A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for multiphase power measurement, industrial motor control, and portable data acquisition systems requiring stable component supply, pre-validated signal chain performance, and fast time-to-test capability.

Supply support for DC1278A 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. (acquired Linear Technology in 2017) is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing technologies, serving industrial, automotive, communications, and healthcare markets.

The DC1278A belongs to Analog Devices' Linear Technology Evaluation Board product line, designed specifically to accelerate prototyping and validation of high-speed, high-precision data converters - emphasizing layout fidelity, noise immunity, and out-of-box usability for system engineers.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the DC1278A evaluation board?

The DC1278A evaluation board is a production-grade hardware platform built to demonstrate and validate the LTC2351-14 14-bit, 1.5Msps simultaneous-sampling ADC. It provides complete signal conditioning, reference management, and SPI interface circuitry - enabling engineers to verify timing behavior, dynamic performance (e.g., 75dB SINAD), and multi-channel synchronization without custom PCB design. DC1278A supports both unipolar and bipolar input modes as specified for the LTC2351-14.

Does the DC1278A support all six channels of the LTC2351-14 simultaneously?

Yes, the DC1278A fully supports simultaneous sampling across all six differential input channels (CH0–CH5) of the LTC2351-14. Its layout implements matched analog paths, shared CONV-triggered acquisition, and synchronized SPI readout - preserving the device's ≤200ps channel-to-channel aperture skew. Jumper settings allow SEL2/SEL1/SEL0 to be configured for full six-channel mode (101, 110, or 111), matching the LTC2351-14's native capability.

How does the DC1278A handle power modes like Nap and Sleep?

The DC1278A implements Nap and Sleep modes exactly as defined in the LTC2351-14 datasheet: two consecutive CONV pulses with SCK held static enter Nap mode (4.5mW), while four or more such pulses activate Sleep mode (12μW). No firmware or external controller is needed - the board routes CONV and SCK directly to the LTC2351-14, allowing mode transitions via simple GPIO toggling. DC1278A includes test points for verifying current draw in each state.

Can I use an external reference voltage with the DC1278A?

Yes, the DC1278A supports external reference voltages between 2.55V and VDD (3.6V max) applied to the VREF pin, overriding the internal 2.5V bandgap. The board provides a dedicated header (J3) and series resistor for clean injection, maintaining the LTC2351-14's specified reference settling time (2ms) and line regulation (600μV/V). Internal reference remains enabled unless externally overdriven - ensuring seamless fallback behavior.

What kind of software support is provided with the DC1278A?

The DC1278A ships with Analog Devices' Linduino firmware library and QuikEval GUI software, providing ready-to-run SPI initialization, channel selection (via SEL2/SEL1/SEL0), BIP mode control, and real-time data capture/plotting. All code is open-source and compatible with Arduino IDE and standard ARM Cortex-M debuggers - eliminating driver development effort and enabling immediate functional testing of the LTC2351-14's 96-clock serial output format.