FREMONT (MAXREFDES6#): 16-bit, high-precision, 0 to 100mV input, isolated analog front end (AFE)

The compact Fremont (MAXREFDES6#) subsystem reference design ( Figure 1 ) utilizes a high-precision, 16-bit analog front end (AFE) to accurately measure 0 to 100mV low-voltage single-ended analog signals and features an isolated data path. The design takes advantage of the following devices: ultra-precision, low-noise buffer ( MAX9632 ); high-precision ADC ( MAX11100 ); ultra-precision 4.096V voltage reference ( MAX6126 ); 600VRMS single-chip data isolator ( MAX14850 ); low dropout voltage (LDO) voltage regulators that provide regulated +6V, +5V, and -5V supplies ( MAX1659 and MAX1735 ). This unique AFE solution is ideal for many applications requiring low voltage input, high impedance, and high-precision analog-to-digital conversion. Smart factories, industrial and medical applications use an increasing number of sensors in various configurations. Although low-voltage sensors provide critical data, they also require/generate high signal-to-noise ratio signals, rendering many discrete and integrated analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) inadequate for such applications.

Figure 1. Fremont subsystem design block diagram.

Competitive Advantage

• Unique single-ended structure

• Optimum board size

• Magnetic interference resistant data path isolation