Analog Devices Inc. EVAL-AD7401EDZ

Overview

EVAL-AD7401EDZ from Analog Devices is a dedicated evaluation board for the AD7401 isolated sigma-delta modulator, enabling full characterization of its 20 MHz 1-bit data stream output, ±320 mV full-scale differential input range, and iCoupler® digital isolation under controlled lab conditions - used for validating high-voltage motor control current sensing and industrial power monitoring systems.

For engineers reviewing the EVAL-AD7401EDZ datasheet, EVAL-AD7401EDZ pinout, EVAL-AD7401EDZ application, or EVAL-AD7401EDZ equivalent, this board supports direct interfacing with the EVAL-CED1Z controller, on-board analog buffering via AD797 op amps, configurable link options for MCLKIN/MDAT routing, and PC-based spectral/time-domain analysis of reconstructed 16-bit data at up to 62.5 kSPS.

Technical Context

The EVAL-AD7401EDZ implements a split-ground architecture aligned with the AD7401's internal isolation barrier, preserving galvanic separation between VDD1 (isolated side) and VDD2 (non-isolated side). It routes the AD7401's MCLKIN (16 MHz typical), MDAT (1-bit serial stream), and differential VIN+/VIN− signals through configurable solder links (J7–J14, MCLKOUT/MCLKIN, MDAT) and SMB sockets (J2, J3, J5, J6).

It integrates two AD797 low-noise op amps for optional analog input buffering, supports standalone operation with external ±5 V / +5 V / +3.3 V supplies, and interfaces via a standard 34-pin SPORT connector compatible with EVAL-CED1Z - where FPGA-based sinc3 filtering (decimation rate 256) reconstructs the 1-bit stream into 16-bit output words.

Key Specifications

Availability

EVAL-AD7401EDZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor drive validation, high-voltage power supply monitoring, and isolated current sensing design-in requiring stable component supply and full signal-chain evaluation capability.

Supply support for EVAL-AD7401EDZ 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 semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing technologies for precision measurement and industrial applications.

EVAL-AD7401EDZ belongs to Analog Devices' evaluation platform family for isolated data converters - designed to accelerate development of safety-critical, high-noise immunity systems such as servo drives, energy meters, and PLC analog input modules.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the EVAL-AD7401EDZ?

The EVAL-AD7401EDZ is a dedicated evaluation board for the AD7401 isolated sigma-delta modulator. It provides complete hardware infrastructure - including configurable link options, SMB analog input sockets, SPORT interface, and AD797 buffering - to validate the AD7401's 20 MHz 1-bit output, ±320 mV differential input, and iCoupler® isolation performance in real-world test setups. The EVAL-AD7401EDZ does not operate standalone without external power or host control.

Which controller board is required to operate the EVAL-AD7401EDZ?

The EVAL-AD7401EDZ is designed for use with the EVAL-CED1Z controller board. The SPORT connector (J12) provides power, clock synchronization (MCLKIN), and data capture (MDAT) between the two boards. While the EVAL-AD7401EDZ can be used in standalone mode with external logic and supplies, full functionality - including FPGA-based sinc3 filtering, PC software integration, and automated linearity analysis - requires the EVAL-CED1Z and its bundled Windows software.

Does the EVAL-AD7401EDZ support differential or single-ended analog inputs?

Yes - the EVAL-AD7401EDZ supports both configurations. By default (per shipped link settings), J10/J11 are set to Position B and J14 to Position C, enabling single-ended input: J2 (VIN+) accepts signal while J3 (VIN−) is tied to GND1. For differential operation, reconfigure J10/J11/J13/J14 to Positions A/A/A/A to route buffered signals from both J2 and J3 to the AD7401 inputs via AD797 op amps.

What power supplies are needed for the EVAL-AD7401EDZ when used with EVAL-CED1Z?

When paired with EVAL-CED1Z, the EVAL-AD7401EDZ requires three external supplies: VDD1 (+4.5 V to +5.25 V) via J1-1, VDD2 (+3.3 V) via J4-1, and GND1/GND2 via J1-2/J4-2. The −5 V supply (J1-3) is only needed if AD797 op amps are used for analog buffering. The EVAL-CED1Z provides 5 V, 2.5 V, and 7 V supplies over the SPORT connector but does not supply VDD1 or VDD2 to the EVAL-AD7401EDZ.

Can the EVAL-AD7401EDZ be used to evaluate both AD7400 and AD7401 devices?

Yes - the EVAL-AD7401EDZ is a dual-purpose board supporting both AD7400 (10 MHz data rate) and AD7401 (20 MHz data rate) modulators. Its hardware layout, link configuration, and software are identical for both. Key differences - such as maximum clock frequency, throughput (39 kSPS vs. 62.5 kSPS at decimation=256), and noise performance - are handled automatically by the EVAL-CED1Z FPGA and PC software based on selected device and decimation rate.