High-Performance 24-Bit Delta-Sigma ADC: Microchip MCP3564R-E/ST for Precision Measurement Applications

In the realm of precision electronics, the accuracy of signal acquisition is paramount. The Microchip MCP3564R-E/ST stands out as a premier solution, a high-performance, low-power 24-bit Delta-Sigma Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) engineered to meet the stringent demands of modern precision measurement applications. This device integrates critical signal chain components into a single package, offering designers a powerful tool to achieve exceptional resolution and accuracy while simplifying system design and reducing board space.

At the core of the MCP3564R's performance is its advanced Delta-Sigma modulator with a proprietary multi-order architecture. This design achieves outstanding effective resolution of up to 21.4 effective number of bits (ENOB) by effectively pushing quantization noise out of the signal band, resulting in a superior signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). It supports a wide range of data rates from 1.17 SPS to 90 kSPS, providing the flexibility to optimize for either ultra-high resolution at lower speeds or faster throughput when needed. This makes it exceptionally versatile for applications from slow-moving sensor monitoring to more dynamic signal analysis.

A key feature of this ADC is its highly integrated on-chip functionality. It includes a programmable gain amplifier (PGA) with gains from 1x to 32x, allowing it to directly interface with low-output sensors like thermocouples or strain gauges without external amplification. Furthermore, it boasts an internal 2.048 V or 2.048 V/1.024 V reference with a low 10 ppm/°C drift, which is critical for maintaining accuracy over temperature variations. The inclusion of an internal oscillator, temperature sensor, and advanced digital filtering (including a built-in Sinc3 + FIR filter) removes the need for numerous external components, enhancing reliability and reducing the total bill of materials.

The MCP3564R is designed with robustness and power efficiency in mind. It operates on a ultra-low power supply of 1.8 V, with a typical operating current of just 310 µA at 5.14 kSPS, making it ideal for battery-powered and portable instruments. Its excellent common-mode rejection ratio (CMRR) and built-in features for electromagnetic interference (EMI) hardening ensure stable and accurate readings even in electrically noisy industrial environments. Communication is handled via a standard SPI interface, facilitating easy connection to a host microcontroller.

Typical applications that benefit from its precision include:

Industrial Process Control: 4-20 mA loop monitoring, PLCs, and pressure/force measurement.

Portable Medical Equipment: Patient monitoring, portable diagnostics, and glucose meters.

Test and Measurement Gear: High-precision multimeters, data acquisition systems, and analytical instruments.

Consumer Precision Sensing: Advanced environmental sensors and professional-grade audio equipment.

ICGOODFIND: The Microchip MCP3564R-E/ST is a top-tier 24-bit Delta-Sigma ADC that masterfully balances exceptional accuracy, high integration, and low power consumption. Its comprehensive feature set minimizes external component needs, accelerates development time, and provides a reliable, high-performance foundation for the most demanding precision measurement systems.

Keywords: High-Performance ADC, 24-Bit Resolution, Delta-Sigma Modulator, Precision Measurement, Low-Power Design