Analog Devices Inc. EVAL-AD7942SDZ

Overview

EVAL-AD7942SDZ from Analog Devices is a dedicated evaluation board for the AD7942 - a 14-bit, 250 kSPS PulSAR® successive-approximation ADC in a 10-lead MSOP package. It provides full signal chain support including on-board ADR435 5.0 V reference, ADA4841-1 ADC drivers, ±2.5 V/7.5 V analog supply rails, and SMA-input analog conditioning circuitry. Designed for precision DC and AC performance validation of the AD7942 in single-ended mode.

For engineers reviewing the EVAL-AD7942SDZ datasheet, EVAL-AD7942SDZ pinout, EVAL-AD7942SDZ application, or EVAL-AD7942SDZ equivalent, this page delivers verified hardware interface details, software operation guidance, power architecture, reference configuration, and ADC-specific setup requirements for accurate characterization of 14-bit SAR converter performance.

Technical Context

The EVAL-AD7942SDZ implements a modular analog front-end with unity-gain buffered inputs (U12/U14), midscale common-mode bias (VCM), and factory-configured single-ended input path per Table 3 of UG-340. It interfaces to the EVAL-SDP-CB1Z system demonstration platform via a 120-pin connector using SPORT protocol with clock gating logic (U9–U11).

Power is derived from a 9 V wall adapter or bench supply, generating +7.5 V (ADP7102), −2.5 V (ADP2301), +5 V (ADP2301), +2.5/+5 V (ADP7104), and +3.3 V (ADP7104) rails. All supplies are decoupled at entry and device level, and share a single ground plane to minimize high-frequency noise coupling.

Key Specifications

Availability

EVAL-AD7942SDZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for precision data acquisition, sensor signal conditioning, and industrial instrumentation applications requiring stable component supply and validated ADC evaluation infrastructure.

Supply support for EVAL-AD7942SDZ 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-AD7942SDZ belongs to Analog Devices' PulSAR® evaluation platform family, designed specifically to accelerate development and performance validation of low-power, high-accuracy SAR ADCs used in precision measurement systems.

FAQ

What is the primary target ADC for the EVAL-AD7942SDZ evaluation board?

The EVAL-AD7942SDZ is specifically configured for the AD7942 - a 14-bit, 250 kSPS PulSAR® SAR ADC in a 10-lead MSOP package. Per UG-340 Table 3, it is factory set for single-ended input mode and uses solder link SL10 = B. While the board supports multiple 8-/10-lead PulSAR devices, EVAL-AD7942SDZ's default hardware and software calibration are optimized for the AD7942.

Does the EVAL-AD7942SDZ require an external SDP board to operate?

Yes, the EVAL-AD7942SDZ requires the EVAL-SDP-CB1Z system demonstration platform for digital communication and power. The board connects via a 120-pin edge connector (J5), and the SDP provides SPORT interface, USB connectivity, and +5 V power. Without EVAL-SDP-CB1Z, the EVAL-AD7942SDZ cannot perform live data capture or control - though its software supports offline analysis of saved .tsv files.

What reference voltage does the EVAL-AD7942SDZ use for the AD7942, and is it adjustable?

The EVAL-AD7942SDZ uses the ADR435 - a 5.0 V precision band gap reference (U6) - directly connected to the AD7942 REF pin. This reference is fixed and non-adjustable on the board; however, the evaluation software allows users to manually enter alternate reference values (e.g., for external reference testing), which recalculates amplitude scaling in waveform, FFT, and histogram displays accordingly.

How is analog input configured on the EVAL-AD7942SDZ for the AD7942?

The EVAL-AD7942SDZ is factory configured for single-ended analog input per Table 3 of UG-340 (SL10 = B). Inputs enter via SMA connectors J6 (IN+) and J10 (IN−), but IN− is internally tied to VCM (2.5 V) to establish the single-ended reference point. The ADA4841-1 op amps (U12/U14) operate as unity-gain buffers, with amplifier rails at +7.5 V and −2.5 V to support full-scale 5 V_PP differential input swing.

Can the EVAL-AD7942SDZ be powered from a bench supply instead of the included wall adapter?

Yes, the EVAL-AD7942SDZ supports bench supply operation via screw terminals J2 (+VS) and J3 (−VS/GND). When using bench power, solder links SL1, SL2, SL3, SL4, and SL7 must all be set to position B (per Table 2 of UG-340), bypassing the on-board ADP7102/ADP2301/ADP7104 regulators. This configuration disables the wall adapter input and routes external voltages directly to the analog and digital supply domains.