Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX11960EVKIT#

Overview

The MAX11960EVKIT# from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit designed to accelerate development and validation of the MAX11960 - a 20-bit, 1Msps, dual simultaneous sampling, fully differential SAR ADC with integrated reference buffers. It supports ±VREF unipolar differential analog inputs (2.5V–3.6V), delivers 99dB SNR and –123dB THD at 10kHz, and operates across –40°C to +85°C. The kit enables rapid prototyping for high-precision data acquisition in motion control encoders and medical instrumentation.

For engineers reviewing the MAX11960EVKIT# datasheet, MAX11960EVKIT# pinout, MAX11960EVKIT# application, or MAX11960EVKIT# equivalent, this kit provides full access to the MAX11960's SPI/QSPI/MICROWIRE-compatible interface, dual-channel analog input paths, on-board reference buffer configuration, and configurable digital supply (1.5V–3.6V), enabling accurate characterization of static linearity (±1.5 LSB INL), dynamic performance (SFDR >125dB), and power scaling behavior (18mW at 1Msps).

Technical Context

The MAX11960EVKIT# implements a complete signal chain around the MAX11960 IC, including precision decoupling (10µF || 0.1µF per supply rail), dedicated AGND/DGND/REFGND planes, and jumper-selectable reference modes (internal buffer via REFIN or external reference on REF1A/REF1B/REF2A/REF2B). It supports both independent and synchronized conversion triggers (CNVSTA/CNVSTB) and exposes all 32 TQFN pins via test points and headers.

Designed for dual-channel simultaneous sampling integrity, the kit maintains tight layout-controlled trace lengths and ground isolation between analog (AVDD, AGND, AIN±) and digital (DVDD, OVDD, SCLK, DOUTA/DOUTB) domains. It incorporates the MAX11960's internal oscillator-based timing architecture - eliminating external clock dependency - and supports full-speed 1Msps operation with no pipeline delay and guaranteed 20-bit no-missing-codes resolution.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX11960EVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for encoder/resolver feedback systems, automated test equipment, and medical imaging subsystems requiring stable component supply and fast time-to-validation.

Supply support for MAX11960EVKIT# 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

Maxim Integrated (now part of Analog Devices) is a semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for precision measurement and industrial applications.

The MAX11960 product line targets ultra-high-resolution, low-latency data acquisition in noise-sensitive environments - delivering best-in-class power efficiency that scales linearly with throughput while maintaining 20-bit accuracy and dual-channel simultaneity.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX11960EVKIT#?

The MAX11960EVKIT# is an evaluation platform for the MAX11960 20-bit, 1Msps dual simultaneous sampling SAR ADC. It provides all necessary power regulation, reference configuration, signal routing, and interface connectivity to validate the MAX11960's performance - including ±VREF differential input handling, SPI/QSPI data readout, and internal reference buffer operation - without requiring custom PCB design.

Does the MAX11960EVKIT# support both internal and external voltage references?

Yes, the MAX11960EVKIT# supports both configurations. Users can enable the MAX11960's internal reference buffers by applying a stable 2.5V–3.3V source to the REFIN pin (with ≥300mV headroom below REFVDD), or bypass the buffers entirely and drive REF1A/REF1B/REF2A/REF2B directly with an external reference. Jumper options and on-board capacitors facilitate quick reconfiguration.

Can the MAX11960EVKIT# operate at full 1Msps sampling rate with simultaneous dual-channel acquisition?

Yes, the MAX11960EVKIT# is fully validated for 1Msps dual simultaneous sampling. Its layout preserves matched trace lengths for AINA± and AINB±, isolates analog and digital grounds, and supplies clean, decoupled power to AVDD, DVDD, REFVDD, and OVDD - ensuring the MAX11960 achieves its specified 99dB SNR, ±1.5 LSB INL, and no-missing-codes performance at maximum throughput.

What digital interface protocols does the MAX11960EVKIT# support via the MAX11960?

The MAX11960EVKIT# leverages the native SPI-compatible serial interface of the MAX11960, supporting QSPI, MICROWIRE, and DSP-style timing modes. It accepts SCLK up to 100MHz, accommodates 1.5ns minimum setup/hold times, and outputs DOUTA/DOUTB in frame-synchronized format - enabling direct connection to FPGA, microcontroller, or ASIC host processors without protocol translation.

Is the MAX11960EVKIT# compatible with standard development environments and software tools?

Yes, the MAX11960EVKIT# is supported by Maxim Integrated's (Analog Devices') official evaluation software, including GUI-based configuration utilities and register-level command sets. It interfaces via USB-to-SPI bridge (included or optional), provides documented register maps and timing diagrams, and ships with example firmware for common host platforms - accelerating integration into existing lab or production test workflows.