Analog Devices Inc. EVAL-AD7843EBZ

Overview

EVAL-AD7843EBZ from Analog Devices is an evaluation board designed to validate the AD7843 and AD7873 12-bit resistive touch screen controllers. It integrates a USB interface (CY7C68013-CSP microcontroller), on-board 4-wire resistive touch screen, screw-terminal signal access (X+, Y+, X−, Y−, VREF, +VCC, GND), and test points for SPI signals (DIN, DOUT, DCLK, CS) and PENIRQ. It supports single-conversion and continuous X-Y coordinate acquisition in embedded HMI applications.

For engineers reviewing the EVAL-AD7843EBZ datasheet, EVAL-AD7843EBZ pinout, EVAL-AD7843EBZ application, or EVAL-AD7843EBZ equivalent, this board enables rapid functional validation of AD7843/AD7873 register configuration, SPI timing (10–600 kHz), power management (PD0/PD1), ADC resolution (8/12-bit), and touchscreen interface behavior without custom PCB development.

Technical Context

The EVAL-AD7843EBZ implements a complete self-contained evaluation system centered on the AD7843/AD7873 IC, with host communication via USB-to-SPI bridge using the CY7C68013-CSP microcontroller. It provides dual signal routing paths: direct connection to external 4-wire resistive screens (via J1 or J3) or simulation using onboard variable resistors (R6/R7).

Hardware configurability includes jumper-selectable power source (USB or external via J13), reference voltage source (3.3 V or external via J7-2), and VBAT input (external via J5 or internal R9). LED indicators monitor PENIRQ status and power, while test points expose all critical analog and digital signals for oscilloscope probing and debug.

Key Specifications

Availability

EVAL-AD7843EBZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for human-machine interface prototyping, industrial panel design, medical device touchscreen validation, and embedded controller integration requiring stable component supply and documented evaluation infrastructure.

Supply support for EVAL-AD7843EBZ 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-AD7843EBZ belongs to Analog Devices' precision data acquisition evaluation platform family, engineered to accelerate development of touch-enabled embedded systems using their resistive touchscreen controller ICs.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the EVAL-AD7843EBZ?

The EVAL-AD7843EBZ is an evaluation board that enables functional validation of the AD7843 and AD7873 resistive touch screen controllers. It provides USB-based configuration, real-time X-Y coordinate plotting, register-level control, and hardware-level signal access - all without requiring custom firmware or PCB layout. The EVAL-AD7843EBZ supports both physical touch screen testing and resistor-based simulation for early-stage design verification.

Does the EVAL-AD7843EBZ support both AD7843 and AD7873 ICs?

Yes, the EVAL-AD7843EBZ is explicitly designed for dual compatibility with both the AD7843 and AD7873. Hardware differences - such as AUX/IN3 and VBAT/IN4 pin assignments - are accommodated via configurable jumpers (L6, L7) and dedicated connectors (J2, J5, J7-2). The evaluation software automatically adapts register mapping and feature enablement based on selected device mode.

How is power supplied to the EVAL-AD7843EBZ?

Power is supplied either through the USB Mini-B port (default, jumper L5 in Position B) or via the external J13-1 terminal (jumper L5 in Position A). When powered by USB, the board regulates 5 V to 3.3 V for the AD7843/AD7873 and peripherals. The power indicator LED confirms proper rail establishment, and AGND is accessible separately via J13-2 for noise-sensitive measurements.

Can the EVAL-AD7843EBZ operate without a physical touch screen?

Yes, the EVAL-AD7843EBZ includes two onboard variable resistors (R6 and R7) that emulate X and Y axis resistance changes, enabling full functional testing of the AD7843/AD7873 without any external touch sensor. Jumpers L1–L4 must be set to Position B to route signals through these resistors, allowing manual adjustment to simulate touch coordinates and verify ADC linearity and interrupt response.

What software is required to use the EVAL-AD7843EBZ?

The EVAL-AD7843EBZ requires the proprietary AD7843/AD7873 Evaluation Software provided on the included CD. This Windows-based application enables SPI register read/write, real-time X-Y coordinate plotting, control bit manipulation (PD0/PD1, SER/DFR, Mode), and SPI clock frequency adjustment. Installation must precede hardware connection, and the software communicates exclusively via the onboard CY7C68013-CSP USB microcontroller.