Analog Devices’ D/A converter reduces cable head-end signal chain footprint

NORWOOD, USA: Analog Devices Inc. (ADI) has introduced an 11-bit D/A converter that enables cable television and broadband operators to synthesize the entire cable spectrum up to 1 GHz into a single RF port, while consuming a maximum of 1.1 W of power.

The AD9737A 2.5-GSPS D/A converter’s wide bandwidth and dynamic range enable cable infrastructure designers to increase QAM (quadrature amplitude modulation) channel density by 20 times over present cable modem implementations, enabling improved next-generation services such as interactive television, high-definition broadcasts and new specialty channels.

Features and benefits
* Low noise and intermodulation distortion enable high quality synthesis of wideband signals up to 1 GHz, reducing the number of transmit DACs required in the typical cable plant.
* Operates from 1.8-V and 3.3-V supplies for a total power consumption of 1.1 W maximum.
* Dual-port interface with double-data-rate LVDS data receivers supports the maximum conversion rate of 2.5 GSPS.
* Proprietary switching technique enhances dynamic performance.
* Output current is programmable from 8.7 mA to 31.7 mA adding flexibility in interface options.
* Not subject to US data converter export restrictions.