Objective:

Understand the basics of A-to-D Converters technology.

Reading Assignment:

1. Learn about the basics of ADCs, from what it is to common design mistakes, in "ABCs of ADCs" presentation.
2. Dynamic specifications of ADCs are very important when a signal that varies quickly over time is being digitized. To learn more about these crucial specifications, read AN-769, "Dynamic Specifications for Sampling A/D Converters."

Additional Resources:

For additional information, consult the Knowledge Base using the following keywords:

• ENOB
• SINAD
• SNR
• THD

Research Assignment:

• Calculate the ENOB for a SINAD of 69.5 dB. check answer
• Calculate the SINAD for a THD of -80 dB and SNR of 70 dB. check answer
• Calculate the Resolution if SNR is 68 dB. check answer
• Calculate the SINAD if ENOB is 10.9 bits. check answer
• Calculate the Theoretical SNR if resolution is 16 bits. check answer

Program Coordinator/Professor

Nicholas Gray
Nicholas "Nick" Gray is a Staff Applications Engineer with National Semiconductor's Data Conversion Products Group in Santa Clara, California, where he has been employed since 1991. He is currently working on the development of new products in the area of Analog-to-Digital Converters. A writer of many technical articles, Nick's career includes video circuit design and 19 years as an applications engineer for data conversion products. Nick holds a BSEE degree from Gonzaga University, Spokane, Washington (1965) and has done graduate work at California State University, San Jose.

Quiz:

Take a quiz to check your understanding of this subject. Click here.
Answer all questions correctly to receive a certificate from Dean Bob Pease.