Analog Devices Inc. DC997B-C

Overview

DC997B-C from Analog Devices (formerly Linear Technology) is a demonstration board designed to evaluate the LTC2240-12, a 12-bit, 170 MSPS high-speed LVDS-output analog-to-digital converter. It features optimized 10–250 MHz analog input network, 3.3 V supply support up to 500 mA, and configurable jumpers for mode, shutdown, output enable, and input range selection. It is used in RF receiver signal chain validation and high-frequency data acquisition systems.

For engineers reviewing the DC997B-C datasheet, DC997B-C pinout, DC997B-C application, or DC997B-C equivalent, key considerations include its fixed LTC2240-12 ADC integration, LVDS parallel output interface (pins 8–46 and 56–82), jumper-configurable encoding mode and power states, and compatibility with the DC890B data capture platform and PScope software.

Technical Context

The DC997B-C implements a dedicated evaluation platform for the LTC2240-12 ADC, supporting single-ended or differential encode clock inputs (0.2–2.5 V_P-P, 50 Ω source impedance) and 1–2 V_PP analog input range via selectable SENSE jumper. Its analog front-end uses an ETC1-1-13 balun and RC network tuned for 10–250 MHz operation.

Digital outputs are routed as LVDS pairs with ground isolation between channels; 12-bit data appears on pins 8–46 and 56–82 of J2 connector. Power sequencing and logic-level control (OE, SHDN) are managed through JP3, while JP2 selects encoding format (2's complement/offset binary) and Clock Duty Cycle Stabilizer enable state.

Key Specifications

Availability

DC997B-C is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for RF test equipment, communications receiver development, and high-speed data acquisition systems requiring stable component supply and validated reference design support.

Supply support for DC997B-C 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 ICs for precision and high-speed applications.

The DC997B-C belongs to Linear Technology's demonstration circuit series for high-speed ADCs, specifically engineered to accelerate evaluation and system integration of the LTC2240/LTC2241/LTC2242 family in demanding RF and instrumentation applications.

FAQ

What ADC is integrated on the DC997B-C demonstration board?

The DC997B-C integrates the LTC2240-12 ADC exclusively - a 12-bit, 170 MSPS, LVDS-output analog-to-digital converter. Unlike other variants (e.g., DC997B-A or DC997B-D), DC997B-C does not support field replacement of the ADC; it is factory-assembled with this specific device and calibrated accordingly.

Does DC997B-C support both 10-bit and 12-bit operation?

No - DC997B-C is configured solely for 12-bit operation using the LTC2240-12. While PScope software allows manual bit masking, the hardware delivers full 12-bit LVDS data on pins 8–46 and 56–82 of J2. The 10-bit variants (e.g., DC997B-F) use different ADCs and are not interchangeable with DC997B-C.

What is the role of JP2 on the DC997B-C board?

JP2 configures the LTC2240-12's output coding format and Clock Duty Cycle Stabilizer (CDCS) function. For DC997B-C, the default VDD position enables 2's complement output and disables CDCS - matching the LTC2240-12's recommended configuration per its datasheet, unlike the LTC2242-12 which defaults to CDCS enabled.

Can DC997B-C operate without the DC890B data capture board?

Yes - DC997B-C can drive LVDS data directly to external logic analyzers or custom FPGA-based receivers via J2. However, USB-powered operation and automated PScope integration require the externally powered DC890B, which supplies necessary LVDS termination and clock synchronization not provided by the DC997B-C alone.

How is analog input coupling implemented on DC997B-C?

DC997B-C applies capacitive coupling to the analog input (AIN SMA) before feeding into an ETC1-1-13 balun or ETC1-1T transformer, followed by an RC network optimized for 10–250 MHz. This topology preserves wideband integrity and minimizes group delay variation - critical for IF sampling and direct RF digitization applications using the LTC2240-12.