LTC2274
APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
INPUT DRIVE CIRCUITS
Input Filtering
A first order RC lowpass filter at the input of the ADC can
serve two functions: limit the noise from input circuitry and
provide isolation from ADC S/H switching. The LTC2274
has a very broadband S/H circuit, DC to 700MHz; it can
be used in a wide range of applications; therefore, it is not
possible to provide a single recommended RC filter.
Figures 3, 4a and 4b show three examples of input RC
filtering at three ranges of input frequencies. In general
it is desirable to make the capacitors as large as can be
tolerated—this will help suppress random noise as well
as noise coupled from the digital circuitry. The LTC2274
does not require any input filter to achieve data sheet
specifications; however, no filtering will put more stringent
noise requirements on the input drive circuitry.
Transformer Coupled Circuits
Figure 3 shows the LTC2274 being driven by an RF trans-
former with a center-tapped secondary. The secondary
center tap is DC biased with VCM, setting the ADC input
signal at its optimum DC level. Figure 3 shows a 1:1 turns
ratio transformer. Other turns ratios can be used; however,
as the turns ratio increases so does the impedance seen by
the ADC. Source impedance greater than 50Ω can reduce
50Ω
10Ω
T1
0.1μF
10Ω
T1 = MA/COM ETC1-1T
RESISTORS, CAPACITORS
ARE 0402 PACKAGE SIZE
EXCEPT 2.2μF
VCM
2.2μF
5Ω AIN+
35Ω
8.2pF
8.2pF
35Ω
5Ω AIN–
8.2pF
LTC2274
2274 F03
Figure 3. Single-Ended to Differential Conversion
Using a Transformer. Recommended for Input
Frequencies from 5MHz to 150MHz
the input bandwidth and increase high frequency distor-
tion. A disadvantage of using a transformer is the loss of
low frequency response. Most small RF transformers have
poor performance at frequencies below 1MHz.
Center-tapped transformers provide a convenient means
of DC biasing the secondary; however, they often show
poor balance at high input frequencies, resulting in large
2nd order harmonics.
Figure 4a shows transformer coupling using a transmis-
sion line balun transformer. This type of transformer has
much better high frequency response and balance than
flux coupled center tap transformers. Coupling capacitors
are added at the ground and input primary terminals to
allow the secondary terminals to be biased at 1.25V. Figure
4b shows the same circuit with components suitable for
higher input frequencies.
VCM
0.1μF
ANALOG
INPUT
T1
0.1μF 1:1
10Ω
25Ω 0.1μF
25Ω 10Ω
2.2μF
5Ω AIN+
4.7pF
LTC2274
4.7pF
5Ω AIN–
T1 = MA/COM ETC1-1-13
RESISTORS, CAPACITORS
ARE 0402 PACKAGE SIZE
EXCEPT 2.2μF
4.7pF
2274 F04a
Figure 4a. Using a Transmission Line Balun Transformer.
Recommended for Input Frequencies from 100MHz to 250MHz
0.1μF
ANALOG
INPUT
T1
0.1μF 1:1
25Ω 0.1μF
25Ω
T1 = MA/COM ETC1-1-13
RESISTORS, CAPACITORS
ARE 0402 PACKAGE SIZE
EXCEPT 2.2μF
VCM
2.2μF
5Ω AIN+
2.2pF
LTC2274
5Ω AIN–
2.2pF
2274 F04b
Figure 4b. Using a Transmission Line Balun Transformer.
Recommended for Input Frequencies from 250MHz to 500MHz
2274fb
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