Analog Devices Inc. DC854C-P

Overview

DC854C-P from Analog Devices (formerly Linear Technology) is a demonstration circuit board designed to evaluate the LTC2208 16-bit, 130 MSPS analog-to-digital converter under high-frequency analog input conditions (>140 MHz). It features CMOS digital outputs, optimized analog input network for wideband RF sampling, and supports up to 500 mA at 3.3 V. Used in RF receiver front-ends and broadband instrumentation.

For engineers reviewing the DC854C-P datasheet, DC854C-P pinout, DC854C-P application, or DC854C-P equivalent, key considerations include its support for >140 MHz analog input bandwidth, LTC2208-specific clock termination (50 Ω AC-coupled), CMOS output interface (pins 7–37), and compatibility with DC718B data acquisition systems via J1 header.

Technical Context

The DC854C-P implements a transformer-coupled, capacitor-based analog input path optimized for analog signals above 140 MHz, using ETC1-1-13 baluns and configurable RC networks. It employs a 50 Ω-terminated, AC-coupled encode clock input (J3) requiring low-jitter sine-wave drive (2–2.5 V_P-P) and supports internal reference (JP2 = VDD) and 2.25 V_P-P full-scale range (JP3 = GND).

Digital outputs are buffered via a 74VCX245 level translator (V_CC = 2.5 V), delivering CMOS-compatible logic levels (V_IH ≥ 2.3 V @ –1.6 mA, V_IL ≤ 0.7 V @ 1.6 mA) across a 31-pin parallel bus (J1 pins 7–37). No LVDS support - LVDS evaluation requires DC996.

Key Specifications

Availability

DC854C-P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for RF receiver evaluation, high-speed data acquisition system prototyping, and broadband spectrum analyzer development requiring stable component supply and validated ADC reference design support.

Supply support for DC854C-P 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 RF ICs, serving precision instrumentation, communications, and defense markets.

The DC854 series belongs to Linear's Demonstration Circuit (DC) platform, engineered specifically to validate high-speed ADC performance in real-world signal chain environments - especially RF sampling, wideband digitization, and dynamic range-critical applications.

FAQ

What is the primary ADC supported by the DC854C-P?

The DC854C-P is factory-configured with the LTC2208 - a 16-bit, 130 MSPS analog-to-digital converter. Unlike generic demo boards, this variant is hard-populated with the LTC2208 and optimized for analog input frequencies exceeding 140 MHz. The DC854C-P does not support field replacement of the ADC or substitution with the LTC2208-14.

Does the DC854C-P support LVDS output signaling?

No, the DC854C-P supports CMOS output only. Its digital interface uses a 74VCX245 buffer to deliver 16-bit parallel CMOS data on J1 pins 7–37. For LVDS evaluation of the same LTC2208 family, Analog Devices specifies DC996 as the dedicated platform - DC854C-P has no LVDS driver circuitry or termination provisions.

What analog input frequency range is the DC854C-P optimized for?

The DC854C-P is explicitly optimized for analog input frequencies greater than 140 MHz, per Table 1 in the Quick Start Guide. This distinguishes it from other DC854 variants (e.g., 854D-A/B/C/D), which target ≤140 MHz. Its balun and RC network layout is tuned for wideband RF sampling above that threshold.

Which data acquisition system is compatible with the DC854C-P?

The DC854C-P is fully compatible with the DC718B QuickEval-II Data Acquisition Board and PScope software. When connected via a short 40-pin ribbon cable, PScope auto-detects the DC854C-P and configures for the LTC2208 (16-bit, left-aligned, bipolar, positive-edge clock, CMOS mode) without manual setup.

What power supply requirements must be met for reliable DC854C-P operation?

The DC854C-P requires a clean, well-regulated +3.3 V supply (3.15–3.45 V) capable of delivering up to 500 mA. Power is applied via screw terminals labeled "+3.3V" and "PWR GND". If used with a DC718B, that board must be powered first (via USB or 6–9 V external supply) before enabling DC854C-P power to prevent backfeed issues.