Design Calculators - Instrumentation

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Analog-to-Digital Resolution Calculator

This calculator helps instrument engineers determine the necessary Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) resolution for a given input voltage range and desired measurement precision. It calculates the voltage per bit (resolution) and quantization error, providing essential insights for selecting the right ADC in industrial measurement and control systems.

Input Signal Parameters

Current-to-Voltage Conversion

Noise Parameters

Calculation Mode

ADC Bits

Calculation Results

Resolution Status: N/A

Step-by-Step Calculation

Parameter Value

Applicable Standards and Guidelines: The selection and implementation of ADCs in industrial systems are governed by various standards to ensure reliability, accuracy, and interoperability. Key standards and considerations include:

  • IEC 61131-2: Programmable Controllers - Part 2: Equipment Requirements and Tests. This standard often defines requirements for analog input modules used in PLCs, which incorporate ADCs.
  • ISA-5.1-2007: Instrumentation Symbols and Identification. Provides guidelines for documenting instrumentation, including analog-to-digital conversion elements.
  • IEEE 1057: IEEE Standard for Digitizing Waveform Recorders. While more specific to waveform recorders, it provides general principles for ADC performance and testing.
  • NIST Traceability: For high-precision applications, ensuring that the ADC's performance is traceable to national or international standards is crucial.
  • Manufacturer Specifications: Always refer to the ADC manufacturer's datasheet for detailed specifications, including INL (Integral Non-Linearity), DNL (Differential Non-Linearity), noise, and temperature drift.
  • System Accuracy Requirements: The overall system accuracy often dictates the minimum required ADC resolution. Consider the entire measurement chain's error budget.

This tool provides a fundamental calculation for ADC resolution. For critical industrial applications, a comprehensive system design, including noise analysis, sensor accuracy, and environmental factors, is essential.