TDC for single beam laser systems
Accurately renders subject outlines within the field of view
ams today launched the AS6501, a new two-channel time-to-digital converter (TDC) that delivers high-speed scanning and high-precision characteristics in single-beam optical distance measurement equipment and medical imaging systems.

The AS6501 features a high-speed LVDS interface for start/stop signals from the light source of optical distance measurement equipment and scanners, as well as LVDS measurement output. The new device can measure the time-of-flight (ToF) of optical signals with a precision of 20 ps per channel, or 10 ps in dual-channel high-resolution mode, and can capture measurement signals at a high speed of up to 70 MSamples/s.

The high-precision, high-speed AS6501-based single-beam laser distance measurement system can accurately and precisely render the outline of objects within its field of view—a feature essential for new automotive driver assistance and autonomous driving systems. PET (positron emission tomography) medical imaging systems can also use the AS6501 to produce detailed images of a patient's body.

ams has optimized the AS6501 for single-beam applications by combining high performance with a compact size. The two-channel AS6501 is supplied in a QFP48 package measuring just 7mm x 7mm, resulting in a 40% smaller footprint than its four-channel counterpart, the TDC-GPX2.

The AS6501 integrates logic to measure the time interval between the Start and Stop signals, requiring virtually no external components. Its power consumption is ten times lower than that of competing TDCs offering similar accuracy. In normal operation, typical power consumption is just 450mW at a 3.3V supply voltage, and in standby mode, current consumption is 60µA.

The AS6501 can also be used in microcontroller-based designs that require a serial peripheral interface (SPI). The AS6501 features a 4-wire SPI for configuration, which can also be optionally used for data readout.

“By introducing a compact version of our two-channel TDC family, ams is enabling high-speed time-of-flight measurement in a wider range of applications, including those with tight space and cost constraints, while maintaining the exceptional performance of the successful TDC-GPX2 device,” said Norbert Breyer, Product Manager at ams.

The AS6501 is now in production volumes, pricing is available from ams.