AD8436 Low Cost, Low Power, True RMS-to-DC Converter

The AD8436 is a new generation, translinear precision, low power, true rms-to-dc converter loaded with options. It computes a precise dc equivalent of the rms value of ac waveforms, including complex patterns such as those generated by switch mode power supplies and triacs. Its accuracy spans a wide range of input levels and temperatures. The ensured accuracy of ≤±0.5% and ≤10 μV output offset result from the latest Analog Devices, Inc., technology. The crest factor error is <0.5% for CF values between 1 and 10.

The AD8436 delivers true rms results at less cost than misleading peak, averaging, or digital solutions. There is no programming expense or processor overhead to consider, and the 4 mm × 4 mm package easily fits into tight applications. On-board buffer amplifiers enable the widest range of options for any rms-to-dc converter available, regardless of cost. For minimal applications, only a single external averaging capacitor is required. The built-in high impedance FET buffer provides an interface for external attenuators, frequency compensation, or driving low impedance loads. A matched pair of internal resistors enables an easily configurable gain-of-two or more, extending the usable input range even lower. The low power, precision input buffer makes the AD8436 attractive for use in portable multi-meters and other battery-powered applications.

The precision dc output buffer minimizes errors when driving low impedance loads with extremely low offset voltages, thanks to internal bias current cancellation. Unlike digital solutions, the AD8436 has no switching circuitry limiting performance at high or low amplitudes (see Figure 2). A usable response of <100 μV and >3 V extends the dynamic range with no external scaling, accommodating demanding low level signal conditions and allowing ample overrange without clipping.

The AD8436 operates from single or dual supplies of ±2.4 V (4.8 V) to ±18 V (36 V). A and J grades are available in a compact 4 mm × 4 mm, 20-lead chip-scale package; A and B grades are available in a 20-lead QSOP package. The operating temperature ranges are −40°C to 125°C for A and B grades and 0°C to 70°C for J grade.

Features and Benefits
  • Delivers true rms or average rectified value of ac waveform
    Fast settling at all input levels
    Accuracy: ±10 μV ± 0.25% of reading (B grade)
  • Wide dynamic input range
    100 μV rms to 3 V rms (8.5 V p-p) full-scale input range
    Larger inputs with external scaling 
  • Wide bandwidth:
    1 MHz for −3 dB (300 mV)
    65 kHz for additional 1% error
  • Zero converter dc output offset
  • No residual switching products
  • Specified at 300 mV rms input
  • Accurate conversion with crest factors up to 10
  • Low power: 300 μA typical at ±2.4 V
  • High-Z FET separately powered input buffer
    RIN ≥ 1012 Ω, CIN ≤ 2 pF
  • Precision dc output buffer
  • Wide power supply voltage range
    Dual: ±2.4 V to ±18 V;
    single: 4.8 V to 36 V
  • 4 mm × 4 mm LFCSP and
    8 mm × 6 mm QSOP packages
  • ESD protected
Linear Products
SPICE Models
Data Sheets
Documentnote
AD8436: Low Cost, Low Power, True RMS-to-DC Converter Data Sheet (Rev. D)PDF 193 kB
Application Notes
Documentnote
AN-1341: Using the AD8436 True RMS to DC Converter (Rev. 0)PDF 517.89 K
Technical Books
Documentnote
Frequently Asked Questions
Documentnote
Order Information
Part NumberPackagePacking QtyTemp RangePrice 100-499Price 1000+RoHS
AD8436ACPZ-R7 Production20 ld LFCSP (4x4mm 2.5EP)REEL 1500-40 to 125C5.944.95Y
AD8436ACPZ-RL Production20 ld LFCSP (4x4mm 2.5EP)REEL 5000-40 to 125C5.944.95Y
AD8436ACPZ-WP Production20 ld LFCSP (4x4mm 2.5EP)REEL 64-40 to 125C5.944.95Y
AD8436ARQZ Production20 ld QSOPOTH 56-40 to 125C5.944.95Y
AD8436ARQZ-R7 Production20 ld QSOPREEL 1000-40 to 125C04.95Y
AD8436ARQZ-RL Production20 ld QSOPREEL 2500-40 to 125C04.95Y
AD8436BRQZ Production20 ld QSOPOTH 56-40 to 125C10.748.95Y
AD8436BRQZ-R7 Production20 ld QSOPREEL 1000-40 to 125C08.95Y
AD8436BRQZ-RL Production20 ld QSOPREEL 2500-40 to 125C08.95Y
AD8436JCPZ-R7 Production20 ld LFCSP (4x4mm 2.5EP)REEL 15000 to 70C3.542.95Y
AD8436JCPZ-RL Production20 ld LFCSP (4x4mm 2.5EP)REEL 50000 to 70C3.542.95Y
AD8436JCPZ-WP Production20 ld LFCSP (4x4mm 2.5EP)REEL 640 to 70C3.542.95Y
Evaluation Boards
Part NumberDescriptionPriceRoHS
AD8436-EVALZEvaluation Board106.21Y
Reference Materials
AD8436: Low Cost, Low Power, True RMS-to-DC Converter Data Sheet (Rev. D) ad8436
AD8436: 低成本、低功耗真RMS-TO-DC转换器数据手册 (Rev. A) ad8436
AD8436 SPICE Macro Model ad8436
AN-1341: Using the AD8436 True RMS to DC Converter (Rev. 0) ad8436
AN-1341:AD8436 真均方根 - 直流 (RMS-TO-DC) 转换器 (Rev. 0) ad8436
MS-2405: Simple Circuit Measures the RMS Value of an AC Power Line ad8436