User's Guide
SBAU175A–July 2010–Revised August 2011
ADS1131REF and ADS1231REF
The ADS1131REF and the ADS1231REF are reference designs for delta-sigma analog-to-digital
converters (ADCs). The ADS1131REF contains the ADS1131 18-bit device, while the ADS1231REF
contains the ADS1231 24-bit device. Both systems contain all the circuitry and user interface elements
needed for a weigh-scale digitizer, and are meant as examples of a good design for a basic weigh-scale
system. Each system is also suitable for general evaluation of the respectively installed ADC. Throughout
this document, the term ADS1x31REF is used to refer to the common features and functions for both
systems.
The ADS1x31REF hardware has the following features:
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ADS1131 ADC for the ADS1131REF and ADS1231 ADC for the ADS1231REF
Connections for load cells or other voltage sources
Low-side excitation switch on the load cell header connector
Ample EMI/RFI suppression between the ADC and rest of design
Eight-digit starburst LCD readout
USB connection for firmware updates and remote control
Designed for very low power consumption
Battery (9V) or wall power
Version 1.0.0 of the firmware includes the following features:
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Weigh-scale mode with two-point calibration
Complete configuration of the device
Real-time peak-to-peak and RMS noise calculation
Autoranging voltage display
Noise displayed in volts, codes, and bits
Voltage displayed in volts or codes
Adjustable averaging mode
Raw hexadecimal code display
Simple and fast configuration
Parameters saved to internal flash memory
Computer link
Graphical PC software is also provided for histogram display, datalogging, and device control.
We welcome bug reports and suggestions for additional features; please contact the Texas Instruments
Precision Analog Applications Group.
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SBAU175A–July 2010–Revised August 2011
ADS1131REF and ADS1231REF
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