Analog Devices Inc. LTC2378IMS-16#PBF

Overview

LTC2378IMS-16#PBF from Analog Devices (formerly Linear Technology) is a 16-bit, 1 Msps successive approximation register (SAR) analog-to-digital converter with ±0.5 LSB INL max, 97 dB SNR at 2 kHz, and fully differential ±V_REF input range (V_REF = 2.5 V to 5.1 V). It operates from a single 2.5 V supply, consumes 13.5 mW at full speed, and supports digital gain compression (DGC) for single-supply amplifier interfacing - used in high-speed data acquisition systems requiring precision, low power, and wide dynamic range.

For engineers reviewing the LTC2378IMS-16#PBF datasheet, LTC2378IMS-16#PBF pinout, LTC2378IMS-16#PBF application, or LTC2378IMS-16#PBF equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed 16-bit no-missing-codes operation, daisy-chain SPI interface compatibility (1.8 V–5 V I/O), internal conversion clock, -40°C to +85°C industrial temperature rating, and DGC-enabled 0.5 V to 4.5 V input range with 5 V reference.

Technical Context

The LTC2378IMS-16#PBF implements a charge-redistribution SAR architecture with a 16-bit CDAC and differential comparator, achieving zero-cycle latency and no pipeline delay. Its internal oscillator eliminates external clock dependency for conversion timing, while auto power-down between conversions scales quiescent current from 13.5 mA (1 Msps) to 0.9 µA (standby).

Digital gain compression (DGC) is controlled via the REF/DGC pin: when grounded, it remaps the ADC's full-scale transfer function to 10%–90% of ±V_REF, enabling rail-to-rail single-supply amplifier drive (e.g., LT6350 from +5.5 V) without sacrificing resolution or introducing offset error beyond ±4 LSB zero-scale drift.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 16-lead MSOP (Mini Small Outline Package), -40°C to +85°C operating temperature grade (I-grade), exposed pad not present (unlike DFN variant).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with AD7960BCPZ-RL7 and ADS8860IDRCT, the LTC2378IMS-16#PBF uniquely balances 16-bit accuracy, 1 Msps speed, ultra-low power, and digital gain compression - making it optimal for portable, thermally sensitive, or amplifier-simplification-focused designs where fully differential input integrity is essential.

Availability

LTC2378IMS-16#PBF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for medical imaging signal chains, industrial process monitoring systems, and portable test equipment requiring stable component supply, guaranteed 16-bit no-missing-codes operation, and industrial temperature compliance.

Supply support for LTC2378IMS-16#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, Inc. (ADI) is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing technologies, serving industrial, automotive, communications, and healthcare markets.

The LTC2378IMS-16#PBF belongs to ADI's legacy Linear Technology precision SAR ADC product line, engineered for applications demanding high speed, low power, and exceptional DC/AC accuracy - especially where thermal constraints, board space, or analog front-end complexity must be minimized.

FAQ

What is the maximum sampling rate supported by the LTC2378IMS-16#PBF?

The LTC2378IMS-16#PBF supports a maximum sampling rate of 1 Msps (1 million samples per second), with guaranteed timing parameters including t_CYC = 1 µs and t_CONV = 460–527 ns across its full –40°C to +85°C operating range. This enables real-time digitization of signals up to 500 kHz without aliasing, and the absence of pipeline delay ensures immediate data availability after each CNV pulse.

Does the LTC2378IMS-16#PBF require an external clock for conversion timing?

No, the LTC2378IMS-16#PBF integrates an internal oscillator that sets the conversion time, eliminating the need for an external master clock. The only required timing signal is the CNV rising edge to initiate conversion. This simplifies system design, reduces component count, and improves timing robustness in electrically noisy environments where external clock distribution may introduce jitter or skew.

How does digital gain compression (DGC) work in the LTC2378IMS-16#PBF?

In the LTC2378IMS-16#PBF, digital gain compression (DGC) is activated by grounding the REF/DGC pin. This remaps the ADC's transfer function so that zero-scale code corresponds to 0.1 × V_REF and full-scale code to 0.9 × V_REF, effectively compressing the usable input range to 0.5 V–4.5 V with a 5 V reference. This allows driving amplifiers (e.g., LT6350) to operate from a single +5.5 V supply instead of dual rails, reducing system complexity and power consumption.

What are the absolute maximum ratings for the analog input pins of the LTC2378IMS-16#PBF?

The absolute maximum ratings for IN+ and IN– pins of the LTC2378IMS-16#PBF are (GND –0.3 V) to (REF + 0.3 V). Exceeding these limits risks latch-up or permanent damage. The device includes ESD protection diodes, and can tolerate transient currents up to 100 mA below ground or above REF without latch-up - but sustained operation outside recommended conditions is not guaranteed and may degrade long-term reliability.

Is the LTC2378IMS-16#PBF pin-compatible with other members of the LTC2378 family?

Yes, the LTC2378IMS-16#PBF shares identical 16-lead MSOP pinout and functionality with other MSOP-packaged variants (e.g., LTC2378CMS-16#PBF, LTC2378HMS-16#PBF), differing only in temperature grade and ordering suffix. All MSOP versions use the same pin configuration, electrical characteristics, and timing behavior - enabling drop-in replacement across C-grade (0°C–70°C), I-grade (–40°C–85°C), and H-grade (–40°C–125°C) versions without PCB redesign.