Analog Devices Inc. DC750A-B

Overview

DC750A-B from Analog Devices (formerly Linear Technology) is a high-speed analog-to-digital converter evaluation board configured with the LTC2221 12-bit, 135 MSPS LVDS-output ADC, optimized for analog input frequencies from 1 MHz to 100 MHz. It features a transformer-coupled analog front end, 3.3 V supply operation, and LVDS parallel data output on a 100-pin edge connector.

For engineers reviewing the DC750A-B datasheet, DC750A-B pinout, DC750A-B application, or DC750A-B equivalent, this page provides verified hardware configuration details, interface timing constraints, input network design rationale, LVDS output mapping, and integration guidance for high-frequency data acquisition systems requiring validated ADC performance at 135 MSPS.

Technical Context

The DC750A-B implements a fixed analog signal path using MA/COM ETC1-1T 1:1 balun and 0402 RC network tuned for 1–100 MHz input bandwidth. Its encode clock interface accepts 2–2.5 V_P-P sine or square wave signals via 50 Ω capacitor-coupled SMA input with low-jitter requirements for optimal SNR/SFDR.

LVDS data output conforms to FIN1108T buffer specifications: 1.2 V ±170 mV logic levels into 100 Ω termination, delivering 12-bit samples across pins 8–46 and 56–82 of J2. Output enable (JP1) and shutdown (JP3) are controlled via ground-referenced jumpers.

Key Specifications

Availability

DC750A-B is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-speed test equipment, communications receiver prototyping, radar waveform digitization, and instrumentation requiring stable component supply and pre-validated ADC performance at 135 MSPS.

Supply support for DC750A-B 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) acquired Linear Technology in 2017 and maintains its high-performance signal chain product lines, including precision and high-speed data converters.

The DC750A-B belongs to ADI's demonstration circuit series for high-speed ADCs, designed specifically to accelerate evaluation and system integration of LVDS-output, 10/12-bit, 135–185 MSPS analog-to-digital converters in RF and instrumentation applications.

FAQ

What ADC is installed on the DC750A-B evaluation board?

The DC750A-B evaluation board is factory-configured with the LTC2221 - a 12-bit, 135 MSPS high-speed analog-to-digital converter featuring LVDS parallel output. This specific variant uses the analog front-end network optimized for 1–100 MHz input frequencies and supports 1 V_PP or 2 V_PP full-scale ranges via jumper-selectable biasing. The DC750A-B is not user-reconfigurable to other ADCs without hardware modification.

How is the analog input signal conditioned on the DC750A-B?

The DC750A-B conditions analog inputs using a MA/COM ETC1-1T 1:1 balun and discrete 0402 RC network optimized for 1–100 MHz operation. The input is AC-coupled via capacitor to the balun primary, with resistor-capacitor tuning set to minimize distortion and noise in that band. This topology differs from higher-frequency variants (e.g., DC750A-F), which use ETC1-1-13 baluns and alternate RC values.

What are the power requirements for the DC750A-B?

The DC750A-B requires a regulated +3.3 V supply applied across its "+3.3V" and "GND" pins, capable of delivering up to 500 mA depending on sampling rate and active circuitry. The board does not regulate voltage internally; external supply must remain within 3.1 V to 3.5 V. When used with DC890B, an additional 6 V external supply is required for the DC890B itself - not the DC750A-B - to enable LVDS mode.

Which software and hardware are needed to capture data from the DC750A-B?

Data capture from the DC750A-B is supported by PScope software running on Windows, paired with either a DC890B FastDAACS data acquisition board or a compatible logic analyzer. The DC890B connects via USB and requires external 6 V power to activate LVDS reception. For direct connection, a short 100-pin ribbon cable (Samtec HSC8 series) routes LVDS outputs from J2 to a development system, with proper 100 Ω termination per differential pair.

Can the DC750A-B be used with input frequencies above 100 MHz?

No - the DC750A-B is specifically optimized for analog input frequencies between 1 MHz and 100 MHz using its ETC1-1T balun and associated RC network. For operation between 100 MHz and 250 MHz, ADI specifies the DC750A-F variant with different front-end components. Using the DC750A-B beyond its specified band degrades SNR and SFDR due to impedance mismatch and bandwidth limitations in the analog signal path.