AMC1400EVM Documentation

1. Introduction

The AMC1400EVM is an evaluation module designed by Texas Instruments to facilitate the testing and evaluation of the AMC1400, a precision isolated amplifier. The AMC1400 is engineered for high-performance applications requiring accurate signal isolation, low noise, and high linearity. This evaluation module provides a convenient platform for engineers and developers to explore the capabilities of the AMC1400 in various use cases.

Key Features:

• High-precision isolated amplifier with ±250 mV input range.
• High common-mode transient immunity (CMTI) of 15 kV/µs (typical).
• Low offset drift and high linearity for accurate signal processing.
• Galvanic isolation for safety-critical applications.

Common Applications:

• Industrial Automation: Motor control, current sensing, and power monitoring.
• Medical Equipment: Patient monitoring and diagnostic devices.
• Renewable Energy Systems: Solar inverters and battery management systems.
• Test and Measurement Equipment: High-precision signal acquisition.

2. Technical Specifications

The following table outlines the key technical specifications of the AMC1400EVM:

Pin Configuration and Descriptions

The AMC1400EVM provides access to the AMC1400's pins via test points and connectors. Below is the pin configuration for the AMC1400:

3. Usage Instructions

Connecting the AMC1400EVM to a Circuit

1. Power Supply:

   • Connect a regulated power supply to the VDD1 and VDD2 pins.
   • Ensure both sides are powered within the range of 3.0 V to 5.5 V.
   • Connect GND1 and GND2 to their respective ground references.

2. Input Signal:

   • Apply the differential input signal to the VIN+ and VIN- pins.
   • Ensure the input signal does not exceed the ±250 mV range.

3. Output Signal:

   • Measure the output signal at the VOUT pin.
   • The output voltage will be proportional to the input signal, scaled by the internal gain.

4. Reference Voltage:

   • Use the REFOUT pin to access the internal reference voltage (2.5 V typical).

Important Considerations:

• Isolation: The AMC1400 provides galvanic isolation between the input and output sides. Ensure proper grounding to maintain isolation integrity.
• Input Signal Conditioning: Use appropriate filtering or signal conditioning to prevent noise from affecting the input signal.
• Thermal Management: Operate the module within the specified temperature range (-40°C to +125°C) to ensure reliable performance.

4. Example Application with Arduino UNO

The AMC1400EVM can be interfaced with an Arduino UNO for signal acquisition and processing. Below is an example of how to read the output signal from the AMC1400EVM using the Arduino's ADC.

Circuit Diagram:

• Connect VOUT from the AMC1400EVM to an analog input pin (e.g., A0) on the Arduino UNO.
• Power the AMC1400EVM using a 5 V supply from the Arduino's 5V and GND pins.

Arduino Code:

// AMC1400EVM Example with Arduino UNO
// Reads the output voltage from the AMC1400EVM and displays it via Serial Monitor.

const int analogPin = A0; // Analog pin connected to VOUT of AMC1400EVM
const float referenceVoltage = 5.0; // Arduino UNO reference voltage (5V)
const int adcResolution = 1024; // 10-bit ADC resolution (0-1023)

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600); // Initialize serial communication at 9600 baud
  pinMode(analogPin, INPUT); // Set the analog pin as input
}

void loop() {
  int adcValue = analogRead(analogPin); // Read the ADC value
  float outputVoltage = (adcValue * referenceVoltage) / adcResolution; 
  // Convert ADC value to voltage
  
  Serial.print("Output Voltage: ");
  Serial.print(outputVoltage, 3); // Print voltage with 3 decimal places
  Serial.println(" V");
  
  delay(500); // Wait for 500 ms before the next reading
}

Notes:

• Ensure the Arduino's ADC reference voltage matches the VDD2 supply voltage of the AMC1400EVM.
• Use a voltage divider or level shifter if the output voltage exceeds the Arduino's ADC range.

5. Troubleshooting and FAQs

Common Issues and Solutions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can the AMC1400EVM be used with a 3.3 V system?

   • Yes, the AMC1400EVM supports supply voltages as low as 3.0 V, making it compatible with 3.3 V systems.

2. What is the purpose of the REFOUT pin?

   • The REFOUT pin provides a stable 2.5 V reference voltage, which can be used for external circuits or as a reference for ADCs.

3. How do I ensure proper isolation?

   • Maintain separate ground planes for GND1 and GND2. Avoid connecting them directly to preserve isolation.

4. Can the AMC1400EVM measure AC signals?

   • Yes, the AMC1400EVM can measure AC signals within the ±250 mV input range.

This documentation provides a comprehensive guide to using the AMC1400EVM. For further details, refer to the official Texas Instruments AMC1400EVM User Guide.