Pentek doubles signal bandwidth of data converter

The Model 71651 has two channels each of 12bit, 500MHz a/d converter and 16bit, 800MHz d/a converter. According to Pentek, the device delivers more than twice the bandwidth of its previous data converters. It has a Xilinx Virtex-6 fpga at its core. The fpga is preconfigured with data acquisition and playback IP to give the module turn key functionality, with room left for user customisation. "The Model 71651 handles a tremendous breadth of communications and radar signals," said Rodger Hosking, vice president of Pentek. "With its high speed data converters and digital up/down converters, tuning bandwidths range from 10kHz to 240MHz, two and a half times our previous modules." Hosking added that the fpga is preconfigured for use out of the box. "Our embedded IP was inspired by what our customers most often require for their applications. We're simply giving them a quick start towards their final configuration." The software radio module features two input and two output rf channels, transformer coupled to allow direct connection to HF or IF radio stages. The input channels feature 12bit, 500MHz a/d converters that feed data into the Virtex-6 fpga. The output channels incorporate a Texas Instruments DAC5688 digital upconverter that translates real or complex baseband signals to any IF frequency up to 380MHz. Dual 16bit, 800MHz d/as create real or in phase and quadrature analogue outputs.