Analog Devices Inc. EV-AD5544/45SDZ

Overview

EV-AD5544/45SDZ from Analog Devices is a dedicated evaluation board for the AD5544 quad, 16-bit, current-output DAC and its pin-compatible variant AD5545. It interfaces with the EVAL-SDP-CB1Z system demonstration platform via SPI, supports USB-to-SPI communication, and provides full-scale voltage outputs using integrated feedback resistors and AD8065 I-to-V amplifiers. Designed for precision DAC characterization in lab and R&D environments.

For engineers reviewing the EV-AD5544/45SDZ datasheet, EV-AD5544/45SDZ pinout, EV-AD5544/45SDZ application, or EV-AD5544/45SDZ equivalent, this page delivers verified hardware interface details, software control flow, reference design integration notes, and SDP-based signal chain validation guidance - all specific to the EV-AD5544/45SDZ evaluation platform.

Technical Context

The EV-AD5544/45SDZ implements a complete analog signal chain around the AD5544/AD5545 DAC, including ADR01 10.0 V precision reference, four AD8065 FastFET op amps for I-to-V conversion, and configurable power routing for VDD (up to 3.3 V, limited by SDP), VREFx, and AGND/DGND separation. It supports both synchronous (LDAC-controlled) and asynchronous DAC update modes.

Board-level features include dual-mode operation (AD5544 or AD5545), jumper-selectable reference sources (ADR01 or external), on-board decoupling (0.1 µF + 10 µF per channel), and direct connection to SDP's GPIO, SPI, and I²C buses. The layout maintains strict analog/digital ground partitioning and low-noise signal routing for 16-bit accuracy validation.

Key Specifications

Availability

EV-AD5544/45SDZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automatic test equipment development, instrumentation calibration systems, digitally controlled precision biasing, and high-resolution DAC validation requiring stable component supply and traceable evaluation hardware.

Supply support for EV-AD5544/45SDZ 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, headquartered in Norwood, MA.

The EV-AD5544/45SDZ belongs to Analog Devices' precision DAC evaluation platform family, designed specifically to accelerate prototyping and performance validation of high-accuracy, serial-input current-output DACs in metrology, calibration, and automated test applications.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the EV-AD5544/45SDZ evaluation board?

The EV-AD5544/45SDZ evaluation board enables full functional and performance validation of the AD5544 quad 16-bit current-output DAC and its pin-compatible AD5545 dual variant. It provides complete signal chain implementation-including ADR01 reference, AD8065 I-to-V conversion, SDP-hosted SPI control, and LabVIEW GUI-allowing engineers to verify settling time, INL/DNL, glitch energy, and channel-to-channel crosstalk without custom PCB design. The EV-AD5544/45SDZ is not a standalone product but requires EVAL-SDP-CB1Z for operation.

Which host platform is required to operate the EV-AD5544/45SDZ?

The EV-AD5544/45SDZ must be used with the EVAL-SDP-CB1Z system demonstration platform, which provides USB-to-SPI bridging, GPIO control (LDAC, RS, MSB), and power distribution. The SDP board hosts a Blackfin processor and runs firmware that translates USB commands into SPI transactions targeting the AD5544/AD5545 on the EV-AD5544/45SDZ. No other host interface (e.g., direct USB, JTAG, or UART) is supported per UG-285.

Does the EV-AD5544/45SDZ support both AD5544 and AD5545 devices?

Yes - the EV-AD5544/45SDZ is explicitly designed for dual compatibility: it accommodates both the AD5544 (28-lead SSOP, quad DAC) and AD5545 (20-lead TSSOP, dual DAC) as stated in UG-285 Rev. B Section "Features" and confirmed by schematic Part C (U5 = AD5544) and Part A (U2 = AD5545CRUZ). Board jumpers and footprint layout allow physical installation and electrical connection for either device without modification.

What software is provided with the EV-AD5544/45SDZ, and how is it installed?

The EV-AD5544/45SDZ ships with LabVIEW-based evaluation software and SDPDriversNET drivers on CD. Installation requires first installing LabVIEW runtime, then the SDP drivers (automatically triggered or manually run from Program Files/Analog Devices), followed by connecting the SDP board and EV-AD5544/45SDZ. The software enables channel selection, 16-bit data entry, synchronous/asynchronous update mode switching, and real-time output monitoring. The EV-AD5544/45SDZ software is Windows-only and does not support macOS or Linux.

Can the EV-AD5544/45SDZ operate without the EVAL-SDP-CB1Z board?

No - the EV-AD5544/45SDZ has no onboard microcontroller, USB interface, or SPI master logic. All digital control signals (SCLK, SDIN, CS, LDAC, RS, MSB, SDO) are routed exclusively to the SDP connector (J11), and power is derived from the SDP's VIN and 3.3 V rails. Per UG-285 Section "General Description", the board "is used in conjunction with the EVAL-SDP-CB1Z… purchased separately". Attempting standalone operation will result in non-functional digital interface and unpowered DAC core.