Texas Instruments PCM4222EVM

Overview

The PCM4222EVM from Texas Instruments is an evaluation module designed to test the PCM4222, a high-performance stereo audio analog-to-digital converter IC. It provides differential analog inputs via XLR/TRS connectors, AES3-encoded digital outputs (balanced 110Ω and unbalanced 75Ω), I²S/TDM/Left-Justified PCM serial output, and one-bit DSD output - all configurable via on-board DIP switches and jumpers for sampling rates up to 192kHz.

For engineers reviewing the PCM4222EVM datasheet, PCM4222EVM pinout, PCM4222EVM application, or PCM4222EVM equivalent, this module serves as a complete hardware platform to validate PCM4222 performance in professional audio A/D conversion, high-resolution studio recording systems, and digital audio interface development - with onboard clock oscillators, dual DIT4192 transmitters, OPA1632 input buffers, and real-time overflow monitoring.

Technical Context

The PCM4222EVM implements a full-signal-path evaluation environment for the PCM4222 ADC, including two OPA1632 fully differential amplifiers for low-noise analog input buffering and antialiasing filtering, and two DIT4192 AES3 transmitters supporting both dual-channel and Single-Channel Double Sampling Frequency (SC-DSF) modes. It supports master clock sources at 22.5792MHz (X1) and 24.576MHz (X2), plus external BNC input up to 27.648MHz.

Configuration is managed through eight DIP switches (SW1–SW6) and three jumpers (JMP5/JMP6), enabling selection of PCM sampling mode (Normal/Double/Quad Speed), output word length (16–24 bits), decimation filter response (Classic/Low Group Delay), digital high-pass filter per channel, DSD enable/rate (64x/128x), and AES3 data format (I²S/Left-Justified). All digital logic operates from +3.3V or +2.4V to +3.6V, while analog sections require ±6V to ±15V supplies.

Key Specifications

Availability

The PCM4222EVM is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for professional audio equipment development, high-resolution A/D converter validation, and digital audio interface interoperability testing requiring stable component supply and traceable evaluation hardware.

Supply support for PCM4222EVM 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

Texas Instruments is a global semiconductor company specializing in analog and embedded processing technologies, with leadership in precision signal chain and high-fidelity audio solutions.

The PCM4222EVM belongs to TI's audio evaluation module product line, engineered specifically to accelerate design-in and performance verification of the PCM4222 stereo audio ADC in studio-grade recording, broadcast, and mastering applications.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the PCM4222EVM?

The PCM4222EVM is an evaluation module built to characterize the PCM4222 stereo audio analog-to-digital converter IC. It provides complete analog input conditioning, digital output formatting (PCM via I²S/TDM/AES3 and DSD), clock generation, and real-time status monitoring - enabling engineers to validate dynamic range, THD+N, SNR, and jitter performance without custom PCB development. The PCM4222EVM itself is not an IC but a ready-to-use test platform for the PCM4222.

Does the PCM4222EVM support both balanced and unbalanced AES3 outputs?

Yes, the PCM4222EVM provides four AES3 output connectors: J7 and J8 deliver transformer-coupled 75Ω unbalanced signals, while J9 and J10 provide 110Ω balanced outputs. Both pairs are driven by separate DIT4192 transmitters (U13 and U14), allowing simultaneous transmission - or independent configuration for Single-Channel Double Sampling Frequency operation. This dual-output capability is integral to the PCM4222EVM hardware design.

Can the PCM4222EVM operate without an external power supply?

No - the PCM4222EVM requires external DC power: ±6V to ±15V for analog circuitry (via terminal block J3) and +4.5V to +5.5V for digital logic (via terminal block J12). While onboard regulators generate +4.0V (for PCM4222 analog core) and +3.3V (for digital logic), these depend on those external inputs. The PCM4222EVM has no internal battery or AC-DC conversion; all power must be supplied externally per Table 2 in the SBAU124 User's Guide.

How does the PCM4222EVM handle clocking for different sampling rates like 44.1kHz and 48kHz?

The PCM4222EVM uses two fixed-frequency crystal oscillators: X1 at 22.5792MHz for 44.1kHz-family rates (including 88.2kHz and 176.4kHz), and X2 at 24.576MHz for 48kHz-family rates (including 96kHz and 192kHz). A D-type flip-flop (U21) divides the selected clock by two for the PCM4222 MCKI input. Switch SW6 selects between X1, X2, or external BNC input - ensuring precise, low-jitter timing aligned to industry-standard audio sampling rates without software intervention. This clock architecture is hardwired into the PCM4222EVM layout.

Is the PCM4222EVM compatible with the PCM4220 IC?

Yes - the PCM4222EVM documentation explicitly states it serves as an evaluation platform for the PCM4220, which is a subset derivative of the PCM4222. Both devices share identical pinout, power requirements, and core architecture; the PCM4220 omits certain features (e.g., DSD output, some TDM configurations) present in the PCM4222. All hardware interfaces, switch settings, and measurement points on the PCM4222EVM remain valid for PCM4220 evaluation, making the PCM4222EVM a superset-compatible platform.