Analog Devices Inc. LTC2159CUK#PBF

Overview

LTC2159CUK#PBF from Analog Devices (formerly Linear Technology) is a 16-bit, 20 Msps low-power analog-to-digital converter optimized for high-frequency, wide dynamic range signal digitization in communications systems. It delivers 77 dB SNR, 90 dB SFDR, and ultralow 0.07 ps_RMS aperture jitter, enabling high-fidelity undersampling of IF signals up to 140 MHz in cellular base stations and software-defined radios.

For engineers reviewing the LTC2159CUK#PBF datasheet, LTC2159CUK#PBF pinout, LTC2159CUK#PBF application, or LTC2159CUK#PBF equivalent, key selection criteria include its 1.8 V single-supply operation, selectable CMOS/DDR-CMOS/DDR-LVDS outputs, 550 MHz full-power bandwidth, ±2 LSB INL (typ), and support for differential or single-ended clocking with optional duty cycle stabilization.

Technical Context

The LTC2159CUK#PBF employs a pipelined ADC architecture with integrated sample-and-hold, correction logic, and programmable output drivers. Its analog front-end supports differential input ranges from 1 V_P-P to 2 V_P-P, biased by the internal VCM output (nominally VDD/2), and accepts encode inputs via PECL, LVDS, TTL, or CMOS-compatible signals.

Digital interface flexibility is achieved through a serial SPI port for configuration and three output modes: full-rate CMOS (16 single-ended lines), double-data-rate CMOS (8 lines), or double-data-rate LVDS (8 differential pairs). Clock timing includes pipeline latency of 6–6.5 cycles and ENC-to-data delays under 3.2 ns across all modes.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 48-lead (7 mm × 7 mm) plastic QFN with exposed thermal pad (Pin 49 = GND, must be soldered to PCB ground plane).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar high-speed ADC applications.

Compared with AD9268BCPZ-20 and ADS52J90IRGCT, the LTC2159CUK#PBF offers unique flexibility in output interface selection (CMOS/DDR-CMOS/DDR-LVDS), lowest power among 16-bit 20 Msps ADCs, and integrated clock duty cycle stabilization - making it optimal for compact, thermally sensitive, and mixed-signal interface designs.

Availability

LTC2159CUK#PBF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for cellular infrastructure, portable medical imaging, and multichannel data acquisition requiring stable component supply, RoHS-compliant packaging, and guaranteed 0°C to 70°C industrial temperature operation.

Supply support for LTC2159CUK#PBF 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 (acquired Linear Technology in 2017) is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing technologies, serving aerospace, communications, industrial, and healthcare markets.

The LTC2159CUK#PBF belongs to Linear's ultra-low-jitter, low-power high-speed ADC product line, designed specifically for demanding communications and instrumentation applications where SNR, SFDR, and power efficiency are co-optimized.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for the LTC2159CUK#PBF?

The LTC2159CUK#PBF is rated for 0°C to 70°C ambient operation, as indicated by the "C" grade suffix in its part number. This commercial-grade specification ensures stability in base station remote radio units, portable test equipment, and industrial DAQ enclosures without active cooling.

Does the LTC2159CUK#PBF support both differential and single-ended clock inputs?

Yes, the LTC2159CUK#PBF supports both configurations: ENC+ and ENC– can be driven differentially (e.g., LVDS or PECL) for lowest jitter, or ENC– can be tied to GND for single-ended TTL/CMOS clocking - reducing system complexity at the cost of slightly higher 0.09 ps_RMS jitter.

How does the SENSE pin configure the input range on the LTC2159CUK#PBF?

The SENSE pin on the LTC2159CUK#PBF selects the full-scale input range: tied to VDD → ±1 V (2 V_P-P); tied to GND → ±0.5 V (1 V_P-P); or driven with 0.625–1.3 V → ±0.8 × V_SENSE. This eliminates external resistor networks and enables dynamic range adaptation via GPIO control.

Can the LTC2159CUK#PBF operate with a 1.2 V OVDD supply for CMOS outputs?

Yes, the LTC2159CUK#PBF supports OVDD from 1.1 V to 1.9 V. At 1.2 V OVDD, CMOS outputs deliver VOH ≥1.185 V and VOL ≤0.010 V with ±500 µA load - enabling direct interfacing with 1.2 V FPGA I/O banks while reducing switching power by ~30% versus 1.8 V operation.

What is the purpose of the VCM pin on the LTC2159CUK#PBF?

The VCM pin on the LTC2159CUK#PBF provides a buffered, low-impedance (4 Ω) common-mode bias voltage nominally equal to VDD/2. It must be used to bias the AIN+ and AIN– inputs, ensuring optimal linearity and noise performance - bypassed with a 0.1 µF ceramic capacitor to GND per the layout guidelines.