Low-power ADC bound for wireless infrastructure

The AD9254 14bit, 150Msample/s analog-to-digital converter (ADC), developed by Analog Devices, achieves 83dBc spurious-free dynamic range (SFDR) at 70MHz while consuming 430mW. Such a combination of high SFDR, low power consumption, and small packaging (7mm by 7mm 48-lead LFCSP) suits the device for a range of wireless infrastructure applications, including WiMAX and picocell basestation receivers, as well as ultrasound and handheld instrumentation equipment.

The low power consumption of the AD9254 simplifies the deployment of cellular receivers and saves design and electricity costs by eliminating the need for separate cooling devices. WiMAX and instrumentation designers also benefit from improved performance without sacrificing battery life.

Furthermore, the 150Msample/s rate eases analogue filtering in the receiver path and enables a wider continuous bandwidth up to 75MHz, which is necessary to support the 20MHz bandwidth requirements of a WiMAX basestation receiver. The high sample rate also allows designers to realise the benefits of the lower noise floor and simplified AGC loop.