Breakthrough Direct RF-Sampling ADCs from National Semiconductor Revolutionize Radio Architectures

National Semiconductor Corp. (NYSE:NSM) introduced a family of analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) that are the industry's first to directly sample RF signals beyond 2.7 GHz, with third-order intermodulation distortion (IMD3) up to -71 dBc and sampling at up to 3.6 Giga-samples per second (GSPS). Watch a demonstration video at www.national.com/rfadc. The ADC12Dxx00RF family includes five 12-bit ADCs that enable system designers to eliminate multiple intermediate frequency (IF) down-conversion stages including amplifiers, mixers and filters. A single ADC12Dxx00RF replaces entire radio signal path subsystems, drastically reducing bill of materials (BOM) cost, board size and weight in 3G/4G wireless basestations as well as microwave backhaul, military and wideband software-defined radio (SDR) applications. "Radio designers are seeking new ways to increase radio capacity while reducing cost, size and weight. Architectures based on RF sampling ADCs provide these benefits, but it has long been believed that this technology was years away from reality," said Jon Baldwin, marketing director for National's High-Speed Signal Path Division. "With its combination of unparalleled high frequency dynamic range and industry's highest sampling rates, the ADC12Dxx00RF family of ADCs provides the core technology that enables our customers to begin development of Direct RF-sampling radios today." The footprint-compatible ADC12Dxx00RF ADCs join National's industry-leading GSPS ADC family, allowing an easy upgrade path from 500 Mega-samples per second (MSPS) to 3.6 GSPS: The excellent linearity of these Direct RF-sampling ADCs across all frequencies allows more system margin to be shifted to other components, easing their performance requirements and providing additional cost and design time savings. To form a complete signal path solution, the ADC12Dxx00RF ADC can be teamed with one of National's dual-channel, digitally-controlled variable gain amplifiers (DVGA) or the LMH6554 fully differential amplifier, and LMX2541 frequency synthesizer or one of National's LMK04800 clock jitter cleaners. Pricing and Availability Available now, all five 12-bit RF-sampling ADCs are offered in pin-compatible, thermally-enhanced 292-ball BGA packages. For more information on pricing, samples and evaluation boards, visit www.national.com/rfadc#products. About National Semiconductor National Semiconductor is a leader in power management technology. Known for its easy-to-use analog integrated circuits and world-class supply chain, National's high-performance analog products enable its customers' systems to be more energy efficient. Headquartered in Santa Clara, Calif., National reported sales of $1.52 billion for fiscal 2011. Additional information is available at www.national.com.