Let’s describe each component so that
you know its need or function within the input matching network to the ADC:
- C1, C2. Typically 0.1µF, these
components block DC from being fed into the balun or transformer. Some balun
designs lead to ground, DC, or both, and may aggravate the balun’s function,
leading to poor performance.
- R1. This component enables back
termination near the outputs of the balun after the DC blocking capacitors. If
your trace lengths are long enough, you may need this component. Assuming that
no perfect match across the band of interest is achievable, you may need to back
terminate in order to handle any standing waves that accumulate as the imperfect
match rolls back and forth across your frequency range.
- R2, R3, R4. These components
enable you to employ various matching techniques and can take the form of
several combinations in order to solve a balun and ADC matching conundrum. For
the widest band matches, R2, R3 and R4 are generally configured as a matching
pad, which helps dissolve the standing waves between the balun and ADC and
provides a “stiff” 50Ω impedance that both the balun and the ADC need. Though
these components are represented as resistors, they can take the form of
capacitors or inductors as well.
- C3. This capacitor, typically
0.1µF, ties the center point of the R3s together and enables an AC current path.
Adding C3 is also a good idea, because when over-ranging the ADC’s input full
scale, C3 allows this AC current to go somewhere. C3 could also be located at R5
instead.
- R5. This component allows back
termination on the opposite side near the ADC’s inputs, and is not always
necessary. R5 provides the same function as R1, but from the opposite
perspective in order to help resolve standing waves that may accumulate.
Typically, R1 or R5 are required when trace connections are ≥300mils in
length.
- R6. This is a kickback component,
typically in the form of resistors, but in some cases inductors or low-Q ferrite
beads that can help snub any residual charge kickback that comes back onto the
analog input network from the internal sampling circuit in the ADC. These
component placeholders are essential when using unbuffered ADCs.
Again, be wary if you just plan to run
two traces from the output of the balun to the inputs of the ADC. Even if you
collect S-parameters, simulate and prove the design to your colleagues, this
methodology could prove to be costly unless you have previous experience with the
balun and ADC combo.