IP-Precision-ADC Abaco Systems 12-Bit Analog Input Module

The Abaco Systems / SBS / Greenspring IP-Precision-ADC 20 Channel 12-Bit A/D Converter with Two Channel DAC IndustryPack Module is part of the Industry Pack family of modular I/O components. It provides 20 single-ended input lines or 8 differential inputs lines. The single-ended and differential inputs may be dynamically mixed. The ADC provides 12 bits of resolution. A software programmable gain amplifier provides gain from 1 to 500 and a track and hold circuit provides accurate samples. Two 12 DAC lines provide precision output voltages. ADC conversion time is less than 14 microseconds. This provides a usable throughput rate of over 60,000 conversions per second. The ADC has two access modes. In "instant conversion" mode a conversion is started and completed in a single I/O read cycle. This mode requires no software driver and so is particularly convenient to use. Each read cycle completes in 13 to 14 microseconds. Instant conversion mode is accessed by reading the IP-PREC-ADC in the I/O space. In the "pipelined" mode each read starts a new conversion cycle and simultaneously passes the previous reading on the processor. The first reading may be discarded if not needed. Pipelining has the advantage that the processor and the ADC can both be working at the same time, providing higher total throughput. A "ready" bit is provided so that the processor may poll the ADC to see if the previously started conversion cycle has completed. Pipelined mode is accessed by reading the IP-PREC-ADC in the memory space.