First quad-channel, 16-bit ADC for medical imaging applications

Texas Instruments Incorporated (TI) (NYSE: TXN) today introduced the first quad-channel, 16-bit analog-to-digital converter (ADC) for medical imaging applications, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The ADS5263 meets designers' needs for clear, crisp signals and faster acquisition times by delivering a high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of 84.6 dBFS with 10-MHz input and a sampling frequency of up to 100 MSPS. Along with high performance, the quad-channel architecture, low power consumption of 380 mW/channel and small footprint of the ADS5263 allow engineers to design smaller, more compact medical imaging systems than were previously possible with existing single- or dual-channel devices. A non-magnetic package option allows for use in a strong magnetic field, such as in MRI machines. For information, samples and EVMs: www.ti.com/ads5263-pr

"Medical imaging systems like MRI machines typically require numerous high-performance electronics to achieve the clear, high-contrast images that doctors use for early detection of diseases. The large machines often involve a lengthy scan process, during which the patient is required to lie completely still," said Steve Anderson, senior vice president of TI's High Performance Analog business unit. "Taking advantage of both our data converter expertise and our long-standing experience in medical imaging applications, manufacturers can use the performance and compact footprint of the ADS5263 to deliver smaller, faster equipment with outstanding image quality for more efficient scans and increased patient comfort."

Key features and benefits:

• 14- and 16-bit resolution modes allow designers to switch between low-power and high-speed, high-resolution operation.
• In 16-bit mode, the ADS5263 delivers crisp images while maintaining low power consumption:
  • SNR of 84.6 dBFS with 10-MHz input and 100 MSPS sampling frequency.
  • 380 mW/channel.
  • 4-Vpp full-scale input.
• In low-power 14-bit mode, the ADS5263 cuts its power consumption by about half:
  • SNR of 73 dBFS with 10 MHz input and 100 MSPS.
  • 195 mW/channel.
  • 2-Vpp full-scale input.
• Compact footprint: Quad-channel architecture in 9-mm x 9-mm QFN package uses 50-percent less board space than existing single- or dual-channel devices.
• Non-magnetic package option allows for operation without image distortion in a strong magnetic field, such as in MRI equipment.
• In addition to medical imaging systems, the ADS5263 brings the same benefits to industrial instrumentation applications.