Analog Devices Inc. DC1996A-F

Overview

DC1996A-F from Analog Devices is an evaluation board for the LTC2321-12 - a dual, 12-bit + sign, 2Msps differential-input SAR ADC with integrated 4.096V reference, CMOS/LVDS serial interface, and operation from single 3.3V or 5V supply. It supports fully differential, pseudo-differential bipolar/unipolar inputs without configuration and delivers 73dB SNR, ±0.5LSB INL (typ), and zero-cycle latency in high-speed data acquisition systems.

For engineers reviewing the DC1996A-F datasheet, DC1996A-F pinout, DC1996A-F application, or DC1996A-F equivalent, this page provides verified hardware interface details, supported ADC configurations, power delivery architecture, FPGA-compatible timing layout, and design-ready signal conditioning guidance for precision analog-to-digital conversion at 2Msps per channel.

Technical Context

The DC1996A-F implements a complete signal chain for the LTC2321-12, including matched 25Ω series resistors and 220pF capacitors on both AIN1/AIN2 differential paths to optimize bandwidth and settle time. It routes LVDS or CMOS-level SDO/CLKOUT/SCK signals with controlled impedance traces and provides dedicated decoupling: 10µF + 1µF on VDD, 10µF + 0.1µF on REFOUT1/REFOUT2, and 1µF on VBYP1/VBYP2.

Board-level features include jumper-selectable OVDD (1.8V/2.5V), CMOS/LVDS mode selection via JP1, external reference input capability (REFINT grounded), and direct connection to FPGA/CPLD/DSP logic through a 24-pin header. The layout maintains strict analog/digital ground separation with split planes tied at a single point near the ADC's OGND.

Key Specifications

Availability

DC1996A-F is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-speed data acquisition, optical networking, remote sensing, and multiphase motor control applications requiring stable component supply, rapid prototyping validation, and production-ready reference design fidelity.

Supply support for DC1996A-F 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 semiconductors, serving industrial, automotive, communications, and instrumentation markets.

The DC1996A-F belongs to ADI's Linear Technology evaluation board portfolio, designed specifically to accelerate adoption of precision high-speed ADCs like the LTC2321 family in demanding real-time signal acquisition systems.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the DC1996A-F evaluation board?

The DC1996A-F evaluation board is a fully assembled and tested platform for evaluating the LTC2321-12 dual 12-bit + sign SAR ADC. It provides all necessary signal conditioning, power regulation, reference buffering, and FPGA-compatible digital interfacing to validate performance metrics-including 2Msps throughput, 73dB SNR, and ±0.5LSB INL-under real-world conditions. DC1996A-F enables rapid characterization of the LTC2321-12 in both CMOS and LVDS modes without custom PCB development.

Does the DC1996A-F support both CMOS and LVDS digital interfaces for the LTC2321-12?

Yes, the DC1996A-F supports both CMOS and LVDS operation via jumper JP1 (CMOS/LVDS mode select) and configurable OVDD voltage (1.8V or 2.5V). When JP1 is grounded, CMOS mode activates with single-ended SDO/CLKOUT/SCK signaling referenced to OVDD. When JP1 is tied to OVDD, LVDS mode enables differential SDO1±/SDO2±/CLKOUT± outputs with 100Ω termination at the FPGA receiver. DC1996A-F includes matching trace lengths and proper termination pads for both configurations.

Can the DC1996A-F be used with an external reference instead of the internal 4.096V reference?

Yes, the DC1996A-F supports external reference operation. To disable the internal reference buffers (REFOUT1/REFOUT2), the REFINT pin on the LTC2321-12 must be grounded - a function implemented via solder jumper SJ2 on the DC1996A-F. Once REFINT is grounded, external reference voltages between 1.25V and VDD can be applied directly to REFOUT1 and REFOUT2 pins. DC1996A-F provides test points and routing access for clean external reference injection.

What analog input configurations does the DC1996A-F enable for the LTC2321-12?

The DC1996A-F supports all three native LTC2321-12 analog input modes without hardware reconfiguration: fully differential (±REFOUT), pseudo-differential bipolar (±REFOUT/2), and pseudo-differential unipolar (0 to REFOUT). Its input network - 25Ω series resistors and 220pF capacitors on each AIN± pair - preserves signal integrity across all modes while providing ESD protection and anti-aliasing. DC1996A-F documentation includes schematics for each configuration using on-board test points and jumpers.

Is the DC1996A-F compatible with common FPGA development platforms?

Yes, the DC1996A-F connects directly to FPGA/CPLD/DSP host logic via a standard 24-pin 0.1"-spaced header carrying all critical signals: CNV, SCK, SDO1, SDO2, CLKOUT, OVDD, and GND. Trace lengths are matched within ±100ps skew, and drive strength complies with LVDS (3.3V-tolerant) and CMOS (1.8V/2.5V) I/O standards. DC1996A-F has been validated with Xilinx Kintex-7 and Intel Cyclone V platforms using provided HDL examples and timing constraints.