Analog Devices Inc. DC1490A

Overview

DC1490A from Analog Devices (formerly Linear Technology) is a demonstration board designed to evaluate the LTC2460CDD - a 16-bit delta-sigma analog-to-digital converter with integrated precision reference, SPI interface, unipolar 0–V_REF input range, and <50nA average input bias current. It supports direct connection to target analog signals and interfaces via ribbon cable to the DC590 USB Serial Controller for real-time data acquisition and performance analysis.

For engineers reviewing the DC1490A datasheet, DC1490A pinout, DC1490A application, or DC1490A equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of LTC2460CDD-based measurement systems in sensor signal conditioning, precision instrumentation, and low-power industrial monitoring where ultra-low input current and integrated reference stability are critical.

Technical Context

The DC1490A implements the LTC2460CDD in a fully assembled, tested configuration with decoupling (C1–C5: 0.1µF X7R, C6: 10µF X5R), precision gain-setting resistors (R2–R4: 4.99kΩ 1%), and EEPROM (U2: 24LC025-I/ST) for calibration storage. It uses turret posts for analog signal injection and exposes ground planes for low-noise grounding.

Hardware-level integration includes J1 (2×7 2mm header) for power/digital interface to DC590, dedicated IN/REFOUT/VCC/GND turret terminals, and on-board VCC regulation derived from DC590's 5V supply. No external reference or clock source is required for basic operation.

Key Specifications

Availability

DC1490A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for precision sensor evaluation, industrial data acquisition system prototyping, and low-power embedded ADC validation requiring stable component supply and full evaluation board traceability.

Supply support for DC1490A 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 semiconductors for precision measurement and control applications.

The DC1490A belongs to Linear Technology's QuikEval™ demonstration board family, engineered specifically to accelerate evaluation of high-accuracy ADCs like the LTC2460CDD in industrial, test & measurement, and sensor interface designs.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the DC1490A demonstration board?

The DC1490A demonstration board is a ready-to-use evaluation platform for the LTC2460CDD 16-bit delta-sigma ADC. It provides all necessary passive components, proper layout, and accessible analog/digital interfaces to validate performance - including input bias current, reference stability, and SPI communication - without custom PCB design. The DC1490A enables immediate functional testing when paired with the DC590 controller and Linear's evaluation software.

Does the DC1490A require an external reference voltage or clock source?

No, the DC1490A does not require an external reference or clock. The LTC2460CDD on the DC1490A integrates a precision internal reference, and its delta-sigma modulator operates autonomously. V_CC (supplied via DC590) serves as both power and reference voltage. All timing is generated internally, eliminating dependency on external oscillators or reference ICs for baseline operation of the DC1490A.

How is analog signal connected to the DC1490A?

Analog signals are connected to the DC1490A via four dedicated turret posts labeled IN, REFOUT, VCC, and GND. The IN turret connects directly to the LTC2460CDD's analog input pin; GND provides low-inductance grounding to internal planes; VCC supplies the reference and power rail; REFOUT provides access to the internal reference output. These turrets support solderless, low-parasitic connections ideal for benchtop sensor evaluation using the DC1490A.

Can the DC1490A be used without the DC590 controller?

Yes, the DC1490A can be used without the DC590 controller. Its SPI interface (CS, SCK, SDI, SDO) is exposed on J1 and compatible with standard microcontroller GPIOs. Users may interface the DC1490A directly to their own host processor by implementing SPI read routines per the LTC2460CDD datasheet. However, the DC590 + evaluation software provides out-of-box graphical analysis (strip chart, histogram, DVM display) not available in bare-metal use of the DC1490A.

What is the role of U2 (24LC025-I/ST) on the DC1490A?

U2 (24LC025-I/ST) is a 2-kbit I²C serial EEPROM on the DC1490A used to store calibration coefficients, board identification, or user-defined settings. It communicates with the host (via DC590 or external MCU) over I²C lines (SCL/SDA) routed to J1 pins 9 and 11. This enables persistent calibration data retention across power cycles, improving measurement repeatability and supporting traceable evaluation workflows with the DC1490A.