Deviated output of Spartan 3E Starter kit onboard ADC

shobhit6993 · ‎06-13-2012

Hello

I have successfully written a VHDL code to interface the onboard pre-amplifier and ADC on Spartan 3E Starter Kit. But, the output of ADC is quite deviated from the ideal values. For example, with gain=-1(of amplifier) and Vin(A)=1 volt, ideally the output of ADC should be approx 4260(in decimal) (concerned mathematical I/O relation is equation 10-1 on page 76 of manual). I took the readings a no. of times and output was in the range of 6000-7000(in decimal) with few readings being closer to the desired value at 5100-5400. Not only is the extremely large amount of deviation from ideal values my concern, but also the range of output for same input. Same input of 1 volt would give output of 5100 in one set and 7000 in the other. Is there any way to improve the results? Does the VHDL code for adc need modifications(which I think should not be the case because code only controls the timings of various signals to be applied to ADC and amplifier.)? Also, what is, in general, the range of error of ADC's output?

eilert · ‎08-14-2007

Hi,

for specific informations about the ADC you should consult the LTC 1407A datasheet.

There you can also read about the numeric range and the interface details.

The strange results from the ADC can have many causes.

It may be some timing issue, that causes some bits to be read at the wrong time. Or you just misinterpreted the two's complement value.

Or there may be something wrong with your analog setup. Were you able to measure the true input voltage at the ADCs input?

Also keep in mind, that the reference voltage is 1.65V, so your 1V signal is seen as a "negative" voltage compared to the reference.And the reference is just derived by two resistors from the 3.3V supply voltage. Small VCC deviations or noise may have impact to the GAIN and ADC results (see Figure 10-2 of the boards User Guide).

Have a nice synthesis

Eilert

shobhit6993 · ‎06-13-2012

Thanx for the suggestions.

Could you please explain me how can I true input voltage at ADC's input directly?

eteam00 · ‎07-21-2009

Could you please explain me how can I true input voltage at ADC's input directly?

Is there a knowledgeable and experienced design engineer nearby who can help explain to you the Starter Kit board schematics and the LTC1407 and LTC6912 datasheets? Perhaps your instructor might be able to help you?

-- Bob Elkind

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