Analog Devices Inc. EV-AD4020-REF-DGNZ

Overview

EV-AD4020-REF-DGNZ from Analog Devices is a 20-bit, 1.8 MSPS high-accuracy data acquisition reference design board built around the AD4020 SAR ADC, discrete programmable-gain instrumentation amplifier (PGIA), on-board 5 V reference, and active analog signal conditioning circuitry. It supports software-selectable gains of 1, 2, 5, and 10, ±10 V to ±1 V bipolar input ranges, and delivers ±2 ppm typical INL at full speed - optimized for precision test equipment and high-end DAQ systems.

For engineers reviewing the EV-AD4020-REF-DGNZ datasheet, EV-AD4020-REF-DGNZ pinout, EV-AD4020-REF-DGNZ application, or EV-AD4020-REF-DGNZ equivalent, this page provides verified hardware architecture, SPI interface behavior with SDP-H1, real-world noise and linearity performance metrics (−115 dB THD, 102 dB SNR at 900 kSPS), and validated software-controlled test modes including INL/DNL, FFT, histogram, and common-mode rejection analysis.

Technical Context

The EV-AD4020-REF-DGNZ implements a discrete-component PGIA front-end feeding the AD4020 20-bit SAR ADC via precision ADC drivers and buffered 5 V reference. Its analog signal path supports single-ended or fully differential inputs with configurable common-mode voltage handling and active overrange calibration.

It interfaces exclusively via SPI through a 120-pin FMC-compatible connector to the EVAL-SDP-CH1Z (SDP-H1) controller board, which hosts an ADSP-BF527 Blackfin processor and Xilinx Spartan-6 FPGA for real-time data capture, configuration, and USB 2.0 host communication. Power is supplied via 12 V wall adapter to SDP-H1, generating on-board ±15 V, +5 V, +3.3 V, and +1.8 V rails.

Key Specifications

Availability

EV-AD4020-REF-DGNZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-precision automated test equipment, metrology-grade data loggers, and calibration lab reference instruments requiring stable component supply, traceable validation, and full-spectrum characterization capability.

Supply support for EV-AD4020-REF-DGNZ 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. is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing semiconductors, serving industrial, communications, automotive, and healthcare markets with precision technology.

The EV-AD4020-REF-DGNZ belongs to Analog Devices' precision data acquisition reference design portfolio, engineered to accelerate validation of 20-bit+ SAR ADC systems with calibrated analog front-ends, deterministic timing, and production-ready software tooling.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the EV-AD4020-REF-DGNZ?

The EV-AD4020-REF-DGNZ is a complete, ready-to-use reference design board for evaluating the AD4020 20-bit SAR ADC in high-accuracy data acquisition applications. It integrates a discrete programmable-gain instrumentation amplifier (PGIA), precision 5 V reference, ADC drivers, power regulation, and PC-based software for time/frequency domain analysis - enabling rapid validation of linearity, noise, distortion, and common-mode rejection without custom hardware development. The EV-AD4020-REF-DGNZ delivers verified ±2 ppm INL and −115 dB THD performance across all four software-selectable gain settings.

Which controller board is required to operate the EV-AD4020-REF-DGNZ?

The EV-AD4020-REF-DGNZ requires the EVAL-SDP-CH1Z (SDP-H1) system demonstration platform controller board for operation. It connects via a standardized 120-pin FMC-compatible interface and relies on the SDP-H1's ADSP-BF527 processor and Spartan-6 FPGA for SPI communication, data capture, and USB 2.0 host interfacing. The EV-AD4020-REF-DGNZ does not operate standalone - no internal microcontroller or USB interface is present, and all control and analysis are performed through the AD4020 Reference Design Software running on a Windows PC connected to the SDP-H1.

Does the EV-AD4020-REF-DGNZ support both single-ended and differential inputs?

Yes, the EV-AD4020-REF-DGNZ supports both single-ended and fully differential bipolar input configurations, factory-configurable via jumper settings. It accepts input ranges from ±10 V to ±1 V using software-programmable gain options (1, 2, 5, 10), with dedicated SMA connectors (J1/J2) for low-noise signal injection. The discrete PGIA front-end maintains high input impedance and handles varying common-mode voltages - a key requirement for sensor interfaces and legacy instrument retrofitting. All input modes are validated in the UG-1280 user guide with measured INL, DNL, and CMRR results.

What software tools are included with the EV-AD4020-REF-DGNZ?

The EV-AD4020-REF-DGNZ ships with the AD4020 Reference Design Software, a Windows-based application that provides full control and analysis of captured data across five test domains: waveform, histogram (AC/DC), FFT, INL/DNL linearity, and summary metrics. It includes built-in functions for SNR, SINAD, THD, SFDR, offset/gain error, and CMRR calculation - all directly tied to the EV-AD4020-REF-DGNZ hardware configuration. The software requires installation of ADI SDP drivers and is distributed via Analog Devices' official evaluation software package (C:\Program Files\Analog Devices\AD40XX Evaluation Software\EVAL-AD40XX).

Can the EV-AD4020-REF-DGNZ be used for production-level calibration?

Yes - the EV-AD4020-REF-DGNZ is designed for metrology-grade validation and supports production-relevant calibration workflows. Its ±2 ppm typical INL, trackable noise floor (<−115 dB), and on-board 5 V reference with low drift enable traceable measurements aligned with ISO/IEC 17025 requirements. Features like overrange calibration, active filtering, and status-bit-enabled overvoltage detection provide diagnostic visibility needed in certified test environments. While intended as a reference design, its documented performance, repeatable layout, and full software API make it suitable for bench-level calibration fixtures and ATE subsystem integration when paired with SDP-H1 firmware updates and NIST-traceable signal sources.