Linsimicro Data Converters

Linsimicro offers three main types of data converters: SAR ADCs for high-speed applications requiring fast conversion times, Sigma-Delta ADCs for high-resolution measurement applications demanding excellent noise performance, and DACs for precision control and signal generation. SAR ADCs are ideal for multiplexed systems and control loops. Sigma-delta converters excel in precision instrumentation with outstanding dynamic range.

Choose SAR ADCs for speed-critical applications, sigma-delta ADCs for precision measurement.

Choose SAR ADCs when you need fast conversion times (microseconds), good DC accuracy, and lower power consumption. SAR ADCs are ideal for multiplexed systems, control loops, and applications requiring deterministic latency. Choose sigma-delta ADCs when you need very high resolution (20-24 bits), excellent noise performance, and can tolerate longer conversion times (milliseconds).

Consider your resolution and speed requirements to select the appropriate architecture.

INL (Integral Non-Linearity) and DNL (Differential Non-Linearity) are critical specifications for ADC accuracy. INL is the maximum deviation of the actual transfer function from the ideal straight line, affecting absolute accuracy. DNL is the variation in step size between adjacent codes, ensuring no missing codes. For precision measurement applications, look for INL better than ±1 LSB and DNL better than ±0.5 LSB.

For DC precision applications, prioritize INL and DNL specifications.

The reference voltage directly impacts ADC accuracy as it defines the full-scale input range. Any noise, drift, or error in the reference voltage translates directly to measurement error. For high-precision applications, use an external precision reference rather than the internal reference. Consider the reference's temperature coefficient (ppm/°C) for applications with wide temperature ranges.

Use external reference for >14-bit resolution; internal reference is sufficient for lower resolution.

Linsimicro data converters support multiple interface options to accommodate different system requirements. SPI is the most common interface, offering high-speed communication with simple implementation. I2C provides lower speed but requires fewer pins, making it suitable for space-constrained designs. Parallel interfaces offer the highest throughput for demanding applications.

Choose SPI for high-speed, I2C for pin-constrained designs, parallel for maximum throughput.