Linear Technology Launches Octal 14-bit, 125Msps µModule ADC
Achieves High AC Performance at Only 140mW per Channel

- Linear Technology Korea (CEO Hong Sa-kwak, www.linear.com) announced the launch of a family of low-power 14-bit, 80Msps, 105Msps, and 125Msps octal µModule® ADC products that deliver outstanding AC performance and low-power performance in a compact form factor. The LTM9011-14 is an octal 14-bit 125Msps ADC featuring 73.1dB SNR (signal to noise ratio) performance at baseband and 88dB SFDR (spurious free dynamic range) performance, consuming only 140mW power dissipation per channel. The 80Msps LTM9009-14 and 105Msps LTM9010-14 consume only 94mW and 113mW per channel, respectively. Operating from 1.8V analog and digital inputs, the LTM9011 family includes a sleep mode that significantly reduces power consumption to 2mW. Whether operating at maximum speed or in sleep mode, this ADC significantly lowers the power cost for high-speed multichannel designs such as MIMO (multiple-input multiple-output), WiMAX/LTE, RRH (remote radio head), military anti-jamming devices, radar, medical imaging equipment, and ultrasound applications.



Data is output from the LTM9011 in serial LVDS format to maximize the number of data lines. At 125Msps, each channel outputs 2 bits simultaneously, utilizing 2 lanes per ADC. At sample rates below 62Msps, a 1-bit per channel option is available. The LTM9011 is housed in a low-profile 140-pin 11.25mm x 9mm BGA uModule package, providing serial data communication and eight simultaneous sampling ADCs. This device also integrates bypass capacitance and provides a flow-through pinout to reduce the board area required for simplifying data I/O line routing and layout.

The LTM9011 includes an SPI-compatible interface, allowing users to select various data configurations that reduce digital feedback and simplify design. Options include a data output randomizer that reduces digital feedback, 7 programmable LVDS output current levels, an internal 100Ω LVDS output termination resistor, and digital output test patterns. These settings can be programmed via SPI or hardware straps for reduced settings in operating mode.

The LTM9011 is the first pin-compatible family of octal ADCs, offering 14-bit and 12-bit resolution in the range of 25Msps to 125Msps. Pricing for the 14-bit 125Msps product starts at $191.45. Demo boards and free software are supported for all devices for rapid device evaluation and are available at www.linear.com and www.linear.com/designtools/software