Called EV12AQ600, it is “the first quad-channel ADC suitable for space applications”, claimed the firm. “Customers can design systems that operate the cores independently or synchronised, in quad-channel at 1.5Gsample/s, dual-channel at 3Gsample/s or single-channel at 6Gsample/s mode, while only having to qualifying one ADC. This makes the EV12AQ600 suitable for ultra-wideband microwave back-haul systems, data acquisition systems and test and measurement applications.”

A chain synchronisation feature allows it to accommodate the channel count in large phased-array and multiple-input, multiple-output (MIMO) systems.

“The team has combined our design and packaging expertise to offer a C-band capable ADC, which packs features into a device that measures just 16×16 mm,” said Teledyne marketing manager Nicolas Chantier.

The device was designed as part of the Interstellar project – a consortium led by Teledyne e2v and supported by Thales Alenia Space, Airbus Defence and Space and the Fraunhofer Institute. “The project is helping to bridge the gap between the analogue RF world and the digital world, by developing the most advanced data converters,” said Teledyne.

The first public demonstration will be held at AMICSA over 18-20 June in Leuven, Belgium.

Regarding suitability for space use, Teledyne said: “This circuit is designed, manufactured and will be qualified to be compliant with ESCC [European Space Components Coordination] and QML-Y space requirements.”