Part A
ADS1256IDBR
Texas Dụng cụ
- Lifecycle
- Active
- Stock
- 4327 PCS
- Package
- SSOP-28
- Series
- Data Acquisition - Analog to Digital Converters (ADC)
Replacement verdict
Not a drop-in replacement
The ADS1256IDBR and ADS1241EG4 differ fundamentally in resolution, channel architecture, and package configuration, so the ADS1241EG4 cannot serve as a direct substitute for the ADS1256IDBR without redesign of the signal chain, firmware, and PCB layout.
Different ADC resolution
Different channel count
Different package type
Different interface configuration
Parts at a glance
Part B
ADS1241EG4
Texas Dụng cụ
- Lifecycle
- Active
- Stock
- 9680 PCS
- Package
- SSOP-28
- Series
- Data Acquisition - Analog to Digital Converters (ADC)
Key differences
Rows are prioritized by design impact. Highlighted values require attention during substitution.
Key electrical and mechanical differences between the two devices
| Parameter | ADS1256IDBR | ADS1241EG4 | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resolution (bits) | 24 | 24 | Both are 24-bit delta-sigma ADCs, so resolution alone does not differentiate them for high-precision measurement applications. |
| Number of input channels | 8 (single-ended) / 4 (differential) | 8 (single-ended) / 4 (differential) | Channel count determines how many sensor signals can be multiplexed into one converter without external switching. |
| Maximum sample rate (SPS) | 30,000 | 1,000 | The ADS1256 supports much higher throughput, making it suitable for faster dynamic signals, while the ADS1241 is limited to slower precision measurements. |
| PGA gain range | 1 to 64 | 1 to 128 | A wider PGA range allows the ADS1241 to resolve smaller sensor signals directly, which can matter for low-level bridge or thermocouple inputs. |
| Supply voltage (analog) | 5 V (single 5 V analog supply) | 2.7 V to 5.25 V | The wider supply range of the ADS1241 offers more flexibility in low-voltage or battery-powered systems, while the ADS1256 is fixed at 5 V analog. |
| Interface | SPI (serial peripheral interface) | SPI (serial peripheral interface) | Both use SPI, so the host microcontroller interface is compatible, simplifying board-level substitution. |
| Package | SSOP-28 | SSOP-28 | Identical package and pin count allow a common PCB footprint, which is important for drop-in replacement considerations. |
| Operating temperature range | -40 °C to +85 °C | -40 °C to +85 °C | Matching industrial temperature ranges mean both parts are suitable for the same environmental conditions. |
| Input type | Differential / single-ended | Differential / single-ended | Both support differential and single-ended inputs, so sensor wiring topologies remain compatible between the two parts. |
Need help validating a replacement?
Send your BOM and application constraints for technical and sourcing review.
Full specification comparison
Use manufacturer datasheets as the final authority.
| Specification | ADS1256IDBR | ADS1241EG4 |
|---|---|---|
| Supplier | - | Texas Instruments |
| Part Status | Active | Discontinued at Digi-Key |
| Number of Bits | 24 | 24 |
| Sampling Rate(Per Second) | 30k | 15 |
| Number of Inputs | 4, 8 | 8 |
| Input Type | Differential, Single Ended | Differential, Single Ended |
| Data Interface | SPI | SPI |
| Configuration | MUX-PGA-ADC | MUX-PGA-ADC |
| Number of A/D Converters | 1 | 1 |
| Architecture | Sigma-Delta | Sigma-Delta |
| Reference Type | External | External |
| Voltage - Supply, Analog | 5V | 2.7V ~ 3.3V, 5V |
| Voltage - Supply, Digital | 1.8V ~ 3.6V | 2.7V ~ 5.25V |
| Features | PGA | PGA |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C ~ 85°C | -40°C ~ 85°C |
Frequently asked questions
What are the primary differences between the ADS1256IDBR and the ADS1241EG4?
The ADS1256IDBR is a 24-bit, 8-channel delta-sigma ADC with a maximum data rate of 30 kSPS, housed in a 28-pin SSOP package. The ADS1241EG4 is a 24-bit, 8-channel delta-sigma ADC with a maximum data rate of 1 kSPS, housed in a 28-pin SSOP package. The ADS1256 offers a significantly higher programmable data rate and includes a built-in PGA with gains from 1 to 64, while the ADS1241 provides a fixed gain of 1 to 128 via external configuration and targets lower-speed, high-resolution applications.
Are the ADS1256IDBR and ADS1241EG4 pin-compatible?
No. Although both devices are offered in 28-pin SSOP packages, their pinouts differ. The ADS1256IDBR and ADS1241EG4 assign different functions to several pins, including analog input, reference, and digital control pins. A direct PCB drop-in replacement is not possible without layout changes and verification against both datasheets.
Can the ADS1256IDBR directly replace the ADS1241EG4 in an existing design?
No. Beyond pinout differences, the two devices differ in maximum data rate (30 kSPS vs 1 kSPS), PGA architecture, and register map. Firmware, timing, and analog front-end configuration must be revalidated against the ADS1256 datasheet before any substitution is considered.
Which device supports a higher maximum data rate?
The ADS1256IDBR supports a maximum programmable data rate of 30 kSPS. The ADS1241EG4 supports a maximum data rate of 1 kSPS. For applications requiring faster sampling, the ADS1256IDBR is the appropriate choice based on published datasheet specifications.
What are the supply voltage requirements for each device?
The ADS1256IDBR operates from an analog supply (AVDD) of 5 V and a digital supply (DVDD) of 1.8 V to 3.6 V. The ADS1241EG4 operates from a single supply of 2.7 V to 5.25 V. Designers must confirm supply rail compatibility against the respective manufacturer datasheets before interchange.
Do both devices include a programmable gain amplifier (PGA)?
Yes, both integrate a PGA, but the implementations differ. The ADS1256IDBR provides a PGA with selectable gains of 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, and 64. The ADS1241EG4 provides a PGA with selectable gains of 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, 64, and 128. The available gain ranges and associated noise performance should be compared in the respective datasheets.
Which device is better suited for low-speed, high-resolution sensor measurement?
The ADS1241EG4, with its maximum data rate of 1 kSPS and PGA gain up to 128, is oriented toward low-speed, high-resolution sensor applications. The ADS1256IDBR, with data rates up to 30 kSPS, suits applications requiring higher throughput. Selection should be based on the required resolution, noise, and update rate for the specific sensor interface.
Are both devices available in the same package type?
Both the ADS1256IDBR and ADS1241EG4 are offered in 28-pin SSOP packages. However, identical package type does not imply identical pinout or thermal characteristics; each device's pin assignment and recommended land pattern must be verified from the manufacturer datasheet.