Analog Devices Inc. EVAL-AD7986FMCZ

Overview

EVAL-AD7986FMCZ from Analog Devices is a full-featured FMC-compatible evaluation board designed to characterize the AD7986 - an 18-bit, 2 MSPS PulSAR® successive approximation register (SAR) analog-to-digital converter - under real-world low-noise, low-power conditions. It integrates on-board ADR4550 (5.0 V), ADR4525 (2.048 V), and ADR3412 (1.2 V) references; ADA4899-1/ADA4897-1/AD8021 signal conditioning amplifiers; AD8031 reference buffers; and ADP7118/ADP2370/ADM7160 power regulators for complete analog signal chain validation in precision data acquisition systems.

For engineers reviewing the EVAL-AD7986FMCZ datasheet, EVAL-AD7986FMCZ pinout, EVAL-AD7986FMCZ application, or EVAL-AD7986FMCZ equivalent, this page delivers verified hardware interface details, supported ADC modes (turbo/normal), reference configuration options (internal 4.096 V or external 2.048 V/5.0 V), serial interface timing constraints, and system-level integration guidance with the EVAL-SDP-CH1Z controller platform.

Technical Context

The EVAL-AD7986FMCZ implements a dual-path analog front-end supporting both single-ended and fully differential input configurations via JP1–JP5 jumpers, with factory default set for differential operation to match the AD7986's native differential architecture. Signal conditioning uses discrete op-amps (ADA4899-1, ADA4897-1, AD8021) powered by ±7.5 V / −3.0 V rails derived from ADP7118 and ADP2370 regulators.

It interfaces exclusively via a 160-pin VITA 57-compliant FMC-LPC connector (J7) to the EVAL-SDP-CH1Z system demonstration platform, enabling USB-controlled acquisition using Xilinx Spartan-6 FPGA logic and Blackfin BF527 host processing. Serial communication supports 3-wire and 4-wire SPI modes with CNV, SCK, SDO, SDI, and TURBO signals routed through level shifters (LK8–LK13) for voltage compatibility.

Key Specifications

Availability

EVAL-AD7986FMCZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for precision data acquisition, industrial process monitoring, and medical instrumentation requiring stable component supply, traceable sourcing, and long-term evaluation platform continuity.

Supply support for EVAL-AD7986FMCZ 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 Wilmington, MA, with design centers worldwide and a legacy of innovation in precision conversion and signal conditioning.

EVAL-AD7986FMCZ belongs to Analog Devices' PulSAR® evaluation platform family, engineered specifically to accelerate development of high-resolution, low-power SAR ADC applications in test & measurement, energy metering, and scientific instrumentation.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the EVAL-AD7986FMCZ evaluation board?

The EVAL-AD7986FMCZ evaluation board is a dedicated hardware platform for evaluating the AD7986 - an 18-bit, 2 MSPS PulSAR® SAR ADC - under controlled analog signal conditions. It provides complete signal conditioning, reference selection, power regulation, and digital interface capabilities to validate dynamic performance (SNR, THD, SFDR), dc accuracy (INL, DNL), and system-level timing behavior before integration into end equipment. The EVAL-AD7986FMCZ enables rapid prototyping without custom PCB design.

Which ADC does the EVAL-AD7986FMCZ support, and what are its key electrical specs?

The EVAL-AD7986FMCZ is specifically configured for the AD7986, an 18-bit, 2 MSPS successive approximation register (SAR) analog-to-digital converter featuring an internal 4.096 V reference, turbo mode (2 MSPS), and normal mode (reduced power). Its key specs include 99.5 dB SNR (typical), −110 dB THD (typical), and 100 kSPS to 2 MSPS programmable throughput. The EVAL-AD7986FMCZ supports all these modes and validates them using on-board references and calibrated analog inputs.

How does the EVAL-AD7986FMCZ connect to a host PC and what software is required?

The EVAL-AD7986FMCZ connects to a host PC via the EVAL-SDP-CH1Z system demonstration platform using a 160-pin FMC-LPC interface and USB cable. Required software is the official AD7944/AD7985/AD7986 Evaluation Software (v1.x), which provides real-time waveform capture, FFT analysis, histogram testing, and parameter configuration. The EVAL-AD7986FMCZ software must be installed before connecting hardware to ensure proper driver recognition and functional initialization.

Can the EVAL-AD7986FMCZ be used with other ADCs besides the AD7986?

Yes - the EVAL-AD7986FMCZ shares hardware compatibility with the AD7944 (14-bit, 2.5 MSPS) and AD7985 (16-bit, 2.5 MSPS) within the same PulSAR® family. Jumper settings (especially JP7) differ per device: AD7986 defaults to B-to-center for differential input, while AD7944/AD7985 default to A-to-center for single-ended. All three use identical FMC interface, reference options, and software stack, making the EVAL-AD7986FMCZ a multi-variant evaluation platform.

What reference voltage options are available on the EVAL-AD7986FMCZ and how are they selected?

The EVAL-AD7986FMCZ supports three on-board reference sources: ADR4550 (5.0 V), ADR4525 (2.048 V), and ADR3412 (1.2 V), plus the AD7986's internal 4.096 V reference. Selection is made via linkers LK2 and LK10: LK2 = REFIN-to-GND enables internal reference; LK10 = A selects internal, B selects external. The 5.0 V option (ADR4550 + AD8031 buffer) is factory-default and delivers optimal SNR. All references are decoupled with ceramic capacitors per layout guidelines in UG-727.