Teledyne SP Devices has expanded its 12-bit ADQ3-series digitizer lineup with a powerful new addition: the ADQ3-USB.

Designed for high-performance data acquisition in compact, space-constrained environments, the ADQ3-USB brings the full capabilities of the ADQ3 platform into a stand-alone USB 3.2 form factor offering up to 10 Gigasamples-per-second (GSPS) sampling rate and 2 Gbyte/s sustained data transfer to a host PC.

Applications and Market Demand
High-speed digitizers are a critical component in analytical and sensing systems such as mass spectrometers, swept-source optical coherence tomography, LiDAR, automated test equipment, and distributed fiber optic sensing platforms. The demand for faster data acquisition in these fields is driven by a broader trend towards higher resolution, faster imaging speeds, and more granular real-time analysis. These use-cases generate gigabytes of data per second, demanding efficient real-time processing and high-speed data transfer. To preserve signal integrity, especially in compact and noise-sensitive environments, it is often essential to place the digitizer close to the detector within the system enclosure.

Compact Design and Performance
The ADQ3-USB is housed in a robust, fanless enclosure that supports side-by-side mounting of two units in a standard 1U 19" rack. This compact design allows users to place the digitizer close to the detector, minimizing cable length and reducing signal reflections, an essential factor for optimizing analog performance in high-speed applications.

It supports continuous data streaming at up to 2 Gbyte/s via USB 3.2, with onboard FPGA capabilities for real-time signal processing. Even large volumes of raw data up to 20 Gbyte/s can be efficiently reduced and transferred without bottlenecks. By eliminating the need for PCIe slots, the ADQ3-USB enables fast and simple integration with mini-PCs and laptops, making it suitable for mobile setups, embedded systems, and OEM applications.

Firmware and FPGA Options
One of the standout features of the ADQ3-USB is its support for multiple firmware packages tailored to specific application needs, including:

• FWDAQ for standard data acquisition
• FWATD for waveform averaging
• FWPD for pulse detection
• DEVDAQ for custom FPGA development

The open FPGA architecture allows users to implement application-specific algorithms directly on the digitizer, reducing the need for post-processing and enabling real-time decision-making.

OEM Integration and Model Variants
Teledyne SP Devices positions the ADQ3-USB for OEM integration, with ISO-certified production, global support, and tailored engineering services for hardware and firmware modifications.

The ADQ3-USB is compatible with a wide range of digitizer models within the ADQ3 series, including ADQ30, ADQ32, ADQ33, and ADQ35. Each model offers different sampling rates, bandwidths, and channel configurations. For example, the ADQ32-USB offers 2.5 GSPS sampling and 2.5 GHz bandwidth, while the ADQ35-USB supports up to 10 GSPS for ultra-fast applications.

Conclusion
The ADQ3-USB digitizer series represents a significant step in high-speed data acquisition technology. With its compact design, FPGA capabilities, and flexible integration options, it supports the development of faster and more efficient systems across laboratory, field, and production environments.

Visit our website to learn more: https://go.teledynelecroy.com/adq3-usb_mepax