ADS1248 alternative uses

Marc,

There are a number of considerations when choosing an ADC.  I'm guessing that you like the resolution of the ADS1248 as it is 24-bit, but it is also a delta-sigma converter which means that it is best suited for sensors that have a slow varying inputs (close to DC) or where particular digital filtering is required.  The fastest sampling rate of the ADS1248 is 2ksps.  There are also some common mode input range restrictions as well.  For accelerometers that I have seen, the sampling speed of the ADS1248 is too slow to accurately represent changes at the input.  There are faster delta-sigma  converters such as the ADS127x family.

So also take a look at SAR (succesive approximation register) converters that are very fast and can accurately represent a varying signal.

When choosing a converter decide what data rate is required (based on Nyquist), if gain is required, amount of acceptable noise, resolution, input range, acceptable latency of the conversion. power requirements, and interface requirements, to name a few.

Best regards,

Bob B

Bob,

Thanks for getting back to me so quickly, the delta-sigma feature was actually something that drew us to this particular ADC.   Our project is designed for maritime pilotage and therefore will have far less variation and lower sampling for the inputs to that of regular accelerometer use.  Taking this into consideration would consider this to be appropriate for our use?  I will look at the other families you suggested and see how they compare.

Thanks for your assistance,

Marc