Abstract: Many digital devices incorporate analog circuits. For instance, microprocessors, applicationspecificintegrated circuits (ASICs), and field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) may have internalvoltage references, analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) or digital-to-analog converters (DACs). However,there are challenges when you integrate more analog onto a digital design. As with all things in life, inelectronics we must always trade one parameter for another, with the application dictating the propertrade-off of analog function. In this application note, we examine how the demand for economy of spaceand COST pushes analog circuits onto digital substrates, and what design challenges emerge.
Abstract: This application note describes a new generation of digital-input Class D audio amplifiers that achieve high PSRRperformance, comparable to traditional analog Class D amplifiers. More importantly, these digital-input Class D amplifiersprovide additional benefits of reduced power, complexity, noise, and system COST.
Abstract: This application note describes the essential workings of an electrocardiogram (ECG). It discussesfactors that disrupt the ECG signals and make reliable, highly-accurate electrical characterization difficult. Theindustry-standard solution for ECG electrical characterization, which uses an analog front-end and ADCcombination, is explained. The article then introduces the MAX11040 simultaneous-sampling, sigma-deltaADC as a compelling, highly integrated solution that eliminates the need for the AFE, and saves both spaceand COST for the application.
Abstract: This application note describes how sampling clock jitter (time interval error or "TIE jitter") affectsthe performance of delta-sigma digital-to-analog converters (DACs). New insights explain the importanceof separately specifying low-frequency (< 2x passband frequency) and high-frequency or wideband (> 2xpassband frequency) jitter tolerance in these devices. The article also provides an application example ofa simple highly jittered cycle-skipped sampling clock and describes a method for generating a properbroadband jittered clock. The document then goes on to compare Maxim's audio DAC jitter tolerance tocompetitor audio DACs. Maxim's exceptionally high jitter tolerance allows very simple and low-COST sampleclock implementations.
Abstract: Alexander Graham Bell patented twisted pair wires in 1881. We still use them today because they work so well. In addition we have the advantage ofincredible computer power within our world. Circuit simulators and filter design programs are available for little or no COST. We combine the twisted pair and lowpassfilters to produce spectacular rejection of radio frequency interference (RFI) and electromagnetic interference (EMI). We also illustrate use of a precision resistorarray to produce a customizable differential amplifier. The precision resistors set the gain and common mode rejection ratios, while we choose the frequencyresponse.
Abstract: A laser module designer can use a fixed resistor, mechanical pot, digital pot, or a digital-to-analogconverter (DAC) to control the laser driver's modulation and bias currents. The advantages of a programmablemethod (POT or DAC) are that the manufacturing process can be automated and digital control can be applied(e.g., to compensate for temperature). Using POTs can be a more simple approach than a DAC. There can be aslight COST advantage to using a POT, but this is usually not significant relative to other pieces of the design.Using a DAC can offer advantages, including improved linearity (translating to ease of software implementationand ability to hit the required accuracy), increased board density, a wider range of resolutions, a betteroptimization range, ease of use with a negative voltage laser driver, and unit-to-unit consistency
Precision 16-bit analog outputs with softwareconfigurableoutput ranges are often needed in industrialprocess control equipment, analytical and scientificinstruments and automatic test equipment. In the past,designing a universal output module was a daunting taskand the COST and PCB real estate associated with thisfunction were problematic, if not prohibitive.
This publication represents the largest LTC commitmentto an application note to date. No other application noteabsorbed as much effort, took so long or COST so much.This level of activity is justified by our belief that high speedmonolithic amplifiers greatly interest users.
Abstract: Using a wafer-level package (WLP) can reduce the overall size and COST of your solution.However when using a WLP IC, the printed circuit board (PCB) layout can become more complex and, ifnot carefully planned, result in an unreliable design. This article presents some PCB designconsiderations and general recommendations for choosing a 0.4mm- or 0.5mm-pitch WLP for yourapplication.
Abstract: We don't expect manufacturers to produce clothes that in one size that fits everyone. In thesame way, one ESD component can't solve all issues—each application has different ESD requirements.Knowing that "one size fits all" cannot apply to power design, the power designer, or the engineering"super hero," must consider all the potential disruptions to a steady flow of power and thenvarious waysto mitigate them. This tutorial describes voltage- and current-limiting devices and risetime reducers tomanage the power. It also points to free and low-COST software tools to help design lowpass filters, checkcapacitor self-resonance, and simulate circuits.
