Analog Devices Inc. EVAL-AD4696FMCZ

Overview

EVAL-AD4696FMCZ from Analog Devices is an evaluation board for the AD4696 16-bit, 16-channel, 1 MSPS multiplexed SAR ADC with Easy Drive architecture. It supports precision data acquisition in space-constrained systems, delivers ±1.0 LSB INL and 93 dB SINAD at 1 kHz, and enables low-power, interrupt-driven firmware via autocycle mode and threshold detection - ideal for photodiode monitoring and vital signs instrumentation.

For engineers reviewing the EVAL-AD4696FMCZ datasheet, EVAL-AD4696FMCZ pinout, EVAL-AD4696FMCZ application, or EVAL-AD4696FMCZ equivalent, this board provides full access to the AD4696's digital interface (SPI), configurable channel sequencer, oversampling engine, reference buffer control, and overvoltage-protected analog inputs - critical for validating multichannel sensor signal chains under real-world timing, noise, and power constraints.

Technical Context

The EVAL-AD4696FMCZ implements the AD4696 ADC in a fully populated, FMC-compatible form factor with on-board LDOs, precision reference (ADR4550B), buffered analog input conditioning, and configurable GPIO routing. It supports both unipolar and pseudobipolar input modes, 1.14–1.98 V logic SPI, and dual-/quad-SDO operation to reduce host clock burden.

Board-level features include jumper-selectable reference source (internal buffer or external ADR4550B), REFIN/REF decoupling options, analog input overvoltage protection clamps (±5 mA per channel), and dedicated test points for all 16 analog inputs, REF, AVDD, and digital signals - enabling accurate characterization of acquisition latency, crosstalk (−123 dB), and dynamic range (111.2 dB at OSR = 64).

Key Specifications

Availability

EVAL-AD4696FMCZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for photodiode monitoring, medical instrumentation, electronic test and measurement, and battery-powered equipment requiring stable component supply and validated signal chain performance.

Supply support for EVAL-AD4696FMCZ 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, automotive, communications, and healthcare markets.

The EVAL-AD4696FMCZ belongs to Analog Devices' precision data acquisition evaluation platform family, designed to accelerate validation of multichannel, low-power, high-accuracy SAR ADCs in demanding sensor interface applications.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the EVAL-AD4696FMCZ?

The EVAL-AD4696FMCZ is a fully featured evaluation board for the AD4696 16-bit, 16-channel, 1 MSPS SAR ADC. It provides hardware and software infrastructure to evaluate key capabilities including Easy Drive input buffering, on-chip oversampling, autonomous autocycle mode, threshold-based alerts, and overvoltage-protected analog inputs - all accessible via standard FMC interface. The EVAL-AD4696FMCZ enables rapid prototyping of high-density sensor data acquisition systems without custom PCB design.

Does the EVAL-AD4696FMCZ support both AD4695 and AD4696 devices?

No - the EVAL-AD4696FMCZ is specifically configured and validated for the AD4696 (1 MSPS version). While the AD4695 and AD4696 share identical pinouts and register maps, the EVAL-AD4696FMCZ's timing layout, power delivery, and firmware examples are optimized for the AD4696's higher sample rate and associated current consumption. Using it with the AD4695 is possible but not characterized or supported by Analog Devices.

What reference options does the EVAL-AD4696FMCZ provide for the AD4696?

The EVAL-AD4696FMCZ offers two reference configurations: (1) external 5.0 V ADR4550B precision reference routed to the AD4696's REF pin, and (2) the AD4696's internal reference buffer driven by that same ADR4550B output on the REFIN pin. Jumper settings allow selection between REF and REFIN modes, and the internal buffer supports boost mode (11 mA drive) for low-impedance reference distribution across all 16 channels.

How does the EVAL-AD4696FMCZ implement analog input overvoltage protection?

The EVAL-AD4696FMCZ routes each of the 16 AD4696 analog inputs through discrete series resistors and clamping diodes tied to AVDD and AGND, implementing the AD4696's built-in overvoltage protection circuitry. Each channel supports up to ±5 mA clamp current, with activation at VREF + 0.55 V and deactivation at VREF + 0.1 V. External REXT (1 kΩ or 2 kΩ) and CEXT (500 pF) components are included per channel to ensure stable clamp response within 50 ns activation time.

Can the EVAL-AD4696FMCZ operate with a single 3.3 V supply?

Yes - the EVAL-AD4696FMCZ supports single-supply operation using a 3.3 V input to its LDO_IN rail. With the internal LDO enabled, this generates the required 2.7–5.5 V AVDD for the AD4696 analog section. VDD (1.71–1.89 V) and VIO (1.14–1.98 V) are supplied separately via the FMC connector, allowing compatibility with common FPGA carrier cards. Full functionality - including reference buffer boost mode and 1 MSPS sampling - is maintained under this configuration.