The ADS7142-Q1 can be programmed to monitor sensor output voltages and generate an ALERT signal to the host controller if the sensor output voltage crosses a threshold.

The device can be configured to monitor for signals rising above a programmed threshold. Figure 8-3 illustrates the operation of the device when monitoring for signal crossings on the low threshold by setting the high threshold to 0xFFF. In this case, the output of the low-side comparator is set whenever the ADC conversion result is less than or equal to the low threshold, and the output of the high-side comparator is only set when the ADC conversion result is equal to 0xFFF.

The device can also be configured to monitor for signals falling below a programmed threshold. Figure 8-4 illustrates the operation of the device when monitoring for signal crossings on the high threshold by setting the low threshold to 0x000. In this case, the output of high-side comparator is set whenever the ADC conversion result is greater than or equal to the high threshold and the output of the low-side comparator is only set when the ADC conversion result is equal to 0x000.

Figure 8-3 Low Alert With the ADS7142-Q1

Figure 8-4 High Alert With the ADS7142-Q1

The device can also be configured to monitor for signals falling outside of a programmed window. Figure 8-5 shows the device operation for an out-of-range alert where the signal leaves the predefined window and crosses either the high or low threshold. In this case, the output of the low-side comparator is set whenever the ADC conversion result is less than or equal to the low threshold, and the output of the high-side comparator is set when the ADC conversion result is greater than or equal to the high threshold.

Figure 8-5 Out of Range Alert With the ADS7142-Q1