Analog-to-Digital Conversion › lesson 49 of 100 · Intermediate

Describe ADC Dynamic Range

This lesson is part of the Analog-to-Digital Conversion course, and after completing it, you will be able to describe and measure the dynamic range of an ADC. The dynamic range is a crucial parameter in ADCs, and understanding it is essential for designing and using these devices effectively.

The dynamic range of an ADC is the ratio of the maximum input signal to the minimum input signal that can be converted, and it is typically measured in decibels

For example, in a digital audio system, the dynamic range of the ADC is critical in capturing the full range of sound levels, from the faintest whisper to the loudest explosion. The dynamic range of an ADC is defined as the ratio of the maximum input signal to the minimum input signal that can be converted, and it is typically measured in decibels. A higher dynamic range indicates a greater ability to capture a wide range of input signals.

The dynamic range of an ADC is affected by several factors, including the reference voltage, resolution, and noise floor. The reference voltage determines the maximum input voltage that can be converted, while the resolution determines the minimum input voltage that can be detected. The noise floor, on the other hand, determines the minimum input signal that can be distinguished from noise.

To measure the dynamic range of an ADC, you can use a signal generator to apply a range of input signals, from the minimum to the maximum, and measure the corresponding output codes. The dynamic range can then be calculated using the formula: dynamic range = 20 · log10 (maximum input signal / minimum input signal).

Przykłady

• A 12-bit ADC with a reference voltage of 5V and a noise floor of 1mVThe dynamic range of this ADC can be calculated as: dynamic range = 20 · log10 (5V / 1mV) = 120dB
• A 16-bit ADC with a reference voltage of 10V and a noise floor of 10uVThe dynamic range of this ADC can be calculated as: dynamic range = 20 · log10 (10V / 10uV) = 140dB
• A 24-bit ADC with a reference voltage of 20V and a noise floor of 1uVThe dynamic range of this ADC can be calculated as: dynamic range = 20 · log10 (20V / 1uV) = 160dB

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