Analog Devices Inc. DC1629A

Overview

DC1629A from Analog Devices (formerly Linear Technology) is an evaluation board for the LTC2470 and LTC2472 16-bit delta-sigma ADCs with integrated 1.25V precision reference. It supports both single-ended (LTC2470) and differential (LTC2472) configurations, operates from 2.7V to 5.5V, delivers selectable 208sps or 833sps output rates, and features <1mV offset error, 0.01% gain error, and 2µA max sleep current. It is used for rapid validation of high-accuracy, low-power sensor signal acquisition in embedded data acquisition systems.

For engineers reviewing the DC1629A datasheet, DC1629A pinout, DC1629A application, or DC1629A equivalent, this page provides verified hardware interface details, SPI timing constraints, reference startup behavior, conversion settling characteristics, and board-level design guidance specific to the LTC2470/LTC2472 evaluation platform - not the ICs themselves.

Technical Context

The DC1629A implements a complete, ready-to-run evaluation system for the LTC2470/LTC2472 family, featuring on-board 0.1µF REFOUT/COMP decoupling, 10µF VCC bulk capacitance, and configurable input networks for both single-ended and differential signal routing. It exposes all 12 pins of the DFN and MSOP packages via test points and solder jumpers, enabling direct probing and signal injection without soldering.

It supports full SPI communication at up to 2MHz SCK frequency, accommodates external clock sources or internal oscillator operation, and includes provisions for measuring conversion current (3.5mA typ), sleep current (2µA max), and reference stability across temperature (±2ppm/°C C-grade). The board's layout follows Linear's recommended grounding and decoupling practices for 16-bit delta-sigma converters.

Key Specifications

Availability

DC1629A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial process control validation, environmental sensor calibration, embedded instrumentation prototyping, and precision analog front-end development requiring stable component supply and traceable evaluation hardware.

Supply support for DC1629A 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.

The DC1629A belongs to Analog Devices' Linear Technology Evaluation Board product line, designed specifically to accelerate design-in and performance verification of precision delta-sigma ADCs in low-power, high-resolution measurement applications.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the DC1629A evaluation board?

The DC1629A evaluation board is a fully assembled, tested platform for evaluating the LTC2470 and LTC2472 16-bit delta-sigma ADCs. It enables immediate SPI-based data acquisition, reference characterization, power mode testing (NAP/SLEEP), and input range validation without custom PCB design. DC1629A provides access to all critical signals - including REFOUT, COMP, IN+, IN–, and VCC - with proper decoupling and layout for accurate 16-bit measurements.

Does DC1629A support both LTC2470 and LTC2472 devices interchangeably?

Yes, DC1629A supports both LTC2470 (single-ended input) and LTC2472 (differential input) devices interchangeably. Jumpers JP1–JP3 configure the input topology: when JP1 and JP2 are installed, the board routes for LTC2472 differential operation; when JP1 is removed and JP3 installed, it configures for LTC2470 single-ended use. All pin assignments, power, and reference connections remain identical per the shared 12-pin DFN/MSOP footprint.

How does DC1629A handle reference startup and stability during evaluation?

DC1629A uses 0.1µF ceramic capacitors on REFOUT and COMP pins as specified in the LTC2470/LTC2472 datasheet, yielding a typical 12ms reference startup time after power-up or wake-from-sleep. The board includes test points for monitoring REFOUT settling and allows capacitor replacement to adjust startup time versus transition noise - critical for time-sensitive multiplexed acquisition. DC1629A's ground plane and isolation minimize noise coupling into the reference path.

Can DC1629A be used to measure the 2µA sleep current of the LTC2470/LTC2472?

Yes, DC1629A includes a dedicated test point (TP5) and series resistor (R12) that enables direct measurement of supply current in sleep mode using a picoammeter or sensitive DMM. When the LTC2470 or LTC2472 is configured for SLEEP mode (SLP = 1), DC1629A's circuitry ensures the reference and ADC are fully powered down, allowing verification of the 2µA maximum sleep current specification under actual operating conditions - including VCC = 2.7V to 5.5V and full temperature range.

What SPI timing parameters are validated on DC1629A for reliable communication with the LTC2470/LTC2472?

DC1629A has been validated for full compliance with LTC2470/LTC2472 SPI timing: SCK frequency up to 2MHz, minimum SCK high/low periods of 250ns, CS-to-SDO valid delay ≤100ns, and SDI setup/hold times ≥100ns. The board's short trace lengths, controlled impedance routing, and robust power delivery ensure signal integrity across all supported modes - including CPOL = 0 and CPOL = 1 - eliminating timing margin concerns during prototype integration.