Analog Devices Inc. EVAL-AD7730EBZ

Overview

EVAL-AD7730EBZ from Analog Devices is an evaluation board designed to accelerate development with the AD7730 transducer ADC-a 24-bit sigma-delta analog front-end for precision weigh-scale and pressure measurement systems. It integrates the AD7730 IC, AD780 +2.5 V reference, 4.9152 MHz crystal, digital buffers, and dual SMB socket interfaces for analog inputs (AIN1±, AIN2±), ACX outputs, and external reference/clock options.

For engineers reviewing the EVAL-AD7730EBZ datasheet, EVAL-AD7730EBZ pinout, EVAL-AD7730EBZ application, or EVAL-AD7730EBZ equivalent, this board supports rapid prototyping of bridge-sensor signal chains via PC parallel port (SKT2) or custom digital interface (SKT1), with configurable link options for clock source, reference selection, polarity, and power mode.

Technical Context

The EVAL-AD7730EBZ implements a complete hardware testbed for the AD7730 transducer ADC, featuring dual buffered differential analog inputs, programmable gain, on-chip 6-bit DAC for tare voltage removal, and synchronized AC excitation outputs (ACX). It supports both single +5 V supply operation (AVDD/DVDD tied) and split supply configurations with isolated AGND/DGND planes connected only at the AD7730.

Interfacing is provided through two standardized connectors: a 9-way D-type (SKT1) for general-purpose serial control (SCLK, DIN, DOUT, CS, RDY, RESET, SYNC) and a 36-way Centronics (SKT2) optimized for direct connection to PC parallel ports. All digital signals are buffered using 74HC4050 and 74HC244 ICs to ensure robust level translation and drive capability.

Key Specifications

Availability

EVAL-AD7730EBZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for weigh-scale calibration systems, industrial pressure sensor validation, laboratory transducer characterization, and embedded instrumentation prototyping requiring stable component supply and full evaluation infrastructure.

Supply support for EVAL-AD7730EBZ 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 EVAL-AD7730EBZ belongs to Analog Devices' transducer interface evaluation platform family, engineered specifically to simplify design-in of high-resolution ADCs for low-level bridge sensor applications including load cells and piezoresistive pressure sensors.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the EVAL-AD7730EBZ?

The EVAL-AD7730EBZ is an evaluation board for the AD7730 transducer ADC, providing a fully configured hardware platform-including AD7730 IC, AD780 reference, 4.9152 MHz crystal, digital buffers, and dual SMB analog input sockets-to enable rapid testing, calibration, and system integration of precision weigh-scale and pressure measurement circuits. It allows engineers to validate performance without designing custom PCBs.

Does the EVAL-AD7730EBZ support connection to a standard PC printer port?

Yes, the EVAL-AD7730EBZ supports direct connection to a PC's parallel (printer) port via its 36-way Centronics connector (SKT2). The included Windows 3.1-compatible software uses this interface for register configuration, real-time data acquisition, noise analysis, and file-based data logging-eliminating the need for additional interface hardware during early-stage development.

How is power supplied to the EVAL-AD7730EBZ?

The EVAL-AD7730EBZ accepts +5 V via AVDD and DVDD pins. For single-supply operation, AVDD and DVDD are shorted externally; AVDD powers both the AD7730 analog section and the AD780 reference. AGND and DGND are kept separate except at the AD7730 die to avoid ground loops. Decoupling uses 10 µF tantalum and 0.1 µF ceramic capacitors per supply rail.

Can the EVAL-AD7730EBZ be used with external reference or clock sources?

Yes, the EVAL-AD7730EBZ supports flexible configuration: LK5 selects REF IN(+) between AVDD, AD780 output, or external voltage applied to SKT9; LK3 selects REF IN(−) between AGND or external voltage on SKT10; LK1 enables external master clock injection via SKT11. These options allow validation under non-default reference and timing conditions matching final system requirements.

What are the key configurable link options on the EVAL-AD7730EBZ?

The EVAL-AD7730EBZ includes 11 jumpers (LK1–LK11) enabling hardware-level configuration: LK1 selects internal crystal or external clock; LK2 sets normal/standby mode (100 µW power-down); LK3/LK5 configure reference inputs; LK4 sets serial clock polarity; LK6–LK7 route ACX outputs; LK8–LK11 isolate analog inputs (SKT3–SKT8) for external signal conditioning. Default factory settings are documented in Table I of the user guide.