2.2 Gsps ADC

Maxim has introduced the MAX109, claimed to be the industry's highest performance, 8 bit, 2.2 Gsps analog-to-digital converter.

The device offers good wideband dynamic performance that has been optimised for capturing input frequencies in the second Nyquist zone. Fabricated using an SiGe process, the ADC integrates a high-performance track/hold (T/H) amplifier, a quantiser and a 1:4 demultiplexer on a single monolithic die.

At a sample rate of 2.2 Gsps and an input frequency of 300 MHz, the device achieves a spurious-free dynamic range of 62 dBc and a signal-to-noise ratio of 45 dB.

The SNR remains flat (within 1.6 dB) for input frequencies to 2 GHz.

The ADC can also digitise/synthesise signals directly at RF, reducing or eliminating the need for RF downconverters. This performance and integrated functionality make the device suitable for applications such as broadband communication receivers, radar systems and high-end instrumentation systems.

The ADC supports either differential or single-ended inputs with a ±250 mV voltage range. The output data is in standard LVDS format and is demultiplexed internally by a 1:4 demultiplexer. The LVDS outputs operate from a supply-voltage range of 3.0 to 3.6, which enables compatibility with single 3 V reference systems.