Analog-to-Digital Converters Simplify Power-Line-Monitoring System Design for Utility Substation Control

Analog Devices, Inc. (NYSE: ADI), the global leader in data-conversion technology, introduced today simultaneous-sampling ADCs (analog-to-digital converters) that simplify the design of next-generation power-line-monitoring systems. The need for more efficient utility substations and “smart grid” management is growing as worldwide electricity demand increases. Electric utility companies need power-line-monitoring systems to monitor and control energy consumption, cost, and quality, as well as to protect expensive equipment from power surges and severe storms.

“ADI’s new simultaneous-sampling ADCs provide the resolution and performance needed for next-generation power-line-monitoring system designs that ensure the reliable delivery of electricity to millions of people in nearly every corner of the world,” said Leo McHugh, product line director, precision signal processing, Analog Devices. “ADI offers a broad range of semiconductor solutions that solve design challenges in every part of the energy monitoring system, ranging from the electricity meter to the substation.”

Also available in six- or four-channel options, ADI’s 16-bit, eight-channel AD7606 and 14-bit, eight-channel AD7607 simultaneous-sampling ADCs achieve SNR (signal-to-noise ratio) performance of 90 dB. The optional oversampling mode further improves SNR performance, reduces code spread, and enhances anti-alias rejection. Multi-channel integration facilitates three-phase I&V (current and voltage) measurement and neutral monitoring in substation equipment. This enables power-line monitoring systems to observe and manage abnormal events occurring on a power grid, such as electrical faults or short circuits. The AD7606 and AD7607 simultaneous-sampling ADCs operate on a 5-V analog supply, 1.8-V to 5-V logic supply, and feature a front-end, anti-alias filter with high input impedance and input clamp to ±16.5-V. In addition, an internal reference and a reduced decoupling capacitor requirement provide a higher level of integration compared to alternative solutions. The new devices offer true bipolar analog input ranges of ±5 V and ±10 V that allow for the preservation of phase information while sampling bipolar voltages and currents over a wide dynamic range.

About the AD7606 and AD7607 Simultaneous-Sampling ADCs

The AD7606 and AD7607 simultaneous-sampling ADCs contain on-chip LDOs (low-drop-out regulators), a reference and reference buffer, track-and-hold circuitry, signal-conditioning circuitry, on-chip conversion clock, and high-speed parallel and serial interfaces. The new devices also feature low-noise, high-input-impedance (independent of sample rate), signal scaling amplifiers that provide 10-kHz input bandwidth (–3-dB), and 1 MΩ analog input impedance with only 0.1% gain error, and 0.01% offset error. The AD7606 and AD7607 simultaneous-sampling ADCs integrate a front-end, anti-alias filter with attenuation of approximately 40 dB while sampling at a fast throughput rate up to 200 kSPS. The conversion process and data acquisition are controlled using CONVST signals and an internal oscillator. Two CONVST pins allow the simultaneous sampling of all eight analog inputs or two groups of four analog input channels to allow for phase differences between transformers.

Availability, Pricing and Complementary Components

For more information, please visit http://www.analog.com/pr/AD7606 or http://www.analog.com/pr/AD7607.

The following complementary components for the AD7606 and AD7607 simultaneous-sampling ADCs are available to complete the power-line monitoring signal chain: ADuM1100 and ADuM140x iCoupler digital isolators;ADM232A high-speed, driver/receiver; and ADM1485 high-speed, ultra-low-power transceiver. Complementary embedded processors/DSPs include ADI’s Blackfin® BF53x family; ADSP-21992l, and ADSP-21062. Additional complementary components include the ADP3301 and ADP1864 power management offerings.

ADI at the Forefront of ‘Smart Grid’ Energy Infrastructure Technology

‘Smart grid’ technology developers look to Analog Devices’ advanced digital and analog signal processing technology to power next-generation energy infrastructure. Offering a broad range of performance and products, Analog Devices’ integrated circuits are optimized for a range of smart grid applications, from energy metering solutions to dynamic, grid-integrated management and communication systems. For utility-side and consumer-side applications, Analog Devices technology enables developers to design intelligent systems that promote energy efficiency and management flexibility.

About Analog Devices

Innovation, performance, and excellence are the cultural pillars on which Analog Devices has built one of the longest standing, highest growth companies within the technology sector. Acknowledged industry-wide as the world leader in data conversion and signal conditioning technology, Analog Devices serves over 60,000 customers, representing virtually all types of electronic equipment. Celebrating over 40 years as a leading global manufacturer of high-performance integrated circuits used in analog and digital signal processing applications, Analog Devices is headquartered in Norwood, Massachusetts, with design and manufacturing facilities throughout the world. Analog Devices' common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker “ADI” and is included in the S&P 500 Index. http://www.analog.com