ADC Quantization Noise Calculator
Calculate ADC quantization noise, theoretical SQNR, ENOB, dynamic range, and noise spectral density for analog-to-digital converter design.
Formula
How It Works
Quantization noise is an inherent limitation in analog-to-digital conversion where continuous analog signals are transformed into discrete digital representations. When sampling a signal, an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) approximates the continuous signal's amplitude using a finite number of discrete levels, introducing quantization error. The quantization noise is a form of signal distortion that depends on the number of bits used in the analog-to-digital conversion process.
Worked Example
Problem: Calculate the Signal-to-Quantization Noise Ratio (SQNR) for an 8-bit ADC and determine the least significant bit (LSB) voltage if the reference voltage is 5V Solution: 1. SQNR Calculation: SQNR = 6.02 * 8 + 1.76 = 50.32 dB 2. LSB Calculation: LSB = 5V / (2^8) = 5V / 256 = 0.01953V 3. This means each quantization level represents approximately 19.53 mV
Practical Tips
- ✓Use oversampling techniques to improve signal-to-noise ratio
- ✓Select ADC with appropriate bit resolution for your signal requirements
- ✓Consider dithering techniques to reduce quantization noise
Common Mistakes
- ✗Assuming higher sampling rate always improves quantization noise
- ✗Not accounting for reference voltage when calculating LSB
- ✗Neglecting the impact of bit resolution on signal-to-noise ratio
Frequently Asked Questions
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