The ADS816x is a 16-bit successive approximation register (SAR) analog-to-digital converter (ADC) with an analog multiplexer. This device integrates a reference, reference buffer, REFby2 buffer, low-dropout regulator (LDO), and features high performance at full throughput and low power consumption.

The ADS816x supports unipolar, single-ended and pseudo-differential analog input signals. The analog multiplexer is optimized for low distortion and extended settling time. The internal reference generates a low-drift, 4.096V reference output. The integrated reference buffer supports burst mode for data acquisition of external reference voltages in the range 2.5V to 5V. For DC level shifting of the analog input signals, the device has a REFby2 output. The REFby2 output is derived from the output of the integrated reference buffer (the REFP pin).

When a conversion is initiated, the differential input between the ADC-INP and ADC-INM pins is sampled on the internal capacitor array. The device uses an internal clock to perform conversions. During the conversion process, both analog inputs of the ADC are disconnected from the internal circuit. At the end of conversion process, the device reconnects the sampling capacitors to the ADC-INP and ADC-INM pins and enters an acquisition phase.

The integrated LDO allows the device to operate on a single supply, AVDD. The device consumes only 26.5mW, 19.5mW, and 15mW of power when operating at 1MSPS (ADS8168), 500kSPS (ADS8167), and 250kSPS (ADS8166), respectively, with the internal reference, reference buffer, REFby2 buffer, and LDO enabled.

The enhanced-SPI digital interface is backward-compatible with traditional SPI protocols. Configurable features boost analog performance and simplify board layout, timing, firmware, and support full throughput at lower clock speeds. These features enable a variety of microcontrollers, digital signal processors (DSPs), and field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) to be used.

The ADS816x enables optical line cards, test and measurement, medical, and industrial applications to achieve fast, low-noise, low-distortion, and low-power data acquisition in a small form-factor.