ADC10738CIWMX - 10-Bit+Sign SAR ADC, 74kSPS, 8-Input MUX | TI
MPN: ADC10738CIWMX ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $8.42 | $8.42 |
| 10 | $7.61 | $76.10 |
| 100 | $6.95 | $695.00 |
| 500 | $6.12 | $3,060.00 |
| 1,000 | $5.48 | $5,480.00 |
ADC10738CIWMX Overview
A SAR ADC is a type of analog-to-digital converter that uses a binary search algorithm implemented with a capacitive DAC and a comparator to resolve an input voltage one bit per clock cycle. Compared with integrating or sigma-delta ADCs, SAR converters deliver a deterministic latency per conversion and excellent DC accuracy, making them the workhorse choice for multiplexed data-acquisition systems where many channels must be sampled at moderate rates. The ADC10738 family (which includes the ADC10731, ADC10732, and ADC10734 single-channel variants) adds an 8-input analog MUX plus an internal reference, reducing the total external part count for a multi-channel data-acquisition front end.
The 8-input analog MUX lets the host microcontroller cycle through up to eight single-ended analog signals (or four differential pairs) without an external analog switch. The integrated sample-and-hold amplifier acquires the selected input in less than 1 us, while the 2.5V bandgap reference can be used to drive external circuitry or be overdriven with an external reference for ratiometric measurements. A power-down mode reduces current consumption to 18 uW, useful for battery-powered portable instruments that spend most of their life in standby.
Typical applications include industrial process control loop monitoring, portable handheld multimeters and DMMs, multi-channel sensor data loggers (temperature, pressure, strain-gauge bridges), and factory-automation front ends. The 8-channel MUX makes the part especially attractive for systems that need to monitor several sensors in sequence rather than simultaneously. The serial data interface reduces pin count versus parallel-output ADCs, which is valuable in cost-sensitive or space-constrained designs.
When laying out the PCB, place the 0.1 uF supply bypass capacitor as close as possible to the VDD pin and keep analog input traces short and guarded. The internal reference output requires a 1 uF to 10 uF low-ESR bypass capacitor on REF_OUT; do not load this pin with more than a few hundred microamps. To minimize crosstalk, place digital and analog grounds on separate planes joined at a single point near the ADC.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet. Pricing is current as of 2026-10-12, and lifecycle status reflects the latest data from DigiKey and Mouser.
Drop-in alternatives for ADC10738CIWMX — same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
Variants in this series
Same-series models that are drop-in compatible with ADC10738CIWMX (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Input Type, Resolution, Data Interface, Number of Input Channels.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
ADC10738CIWMX/NOPB
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
ADC10738CIWM
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
ADC10158CIWMX/NOPB
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$5.74 / Unit
View Datasheet →ADC10154CIWM
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
ADC10464CIWMX/NOPB
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$5.74 / Unit
View Datasheet →ADC10738CIWMX Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Resolution | 10 Bits + Sign |
| Architecture | SAR (Successive Approximation Register) |
| Number of Analog Inputs | 8 (single-ended) / 4 (differential) |
| Sampling Rate (Max) | 74 kSPS |
| Conversion Time (Max) | 5 us |
| Supply Voltage (Single) | 5 V |
| Power Consumption (Active, Max) | 37 mW |
| Power Consumption (Power-Down) | 18 uW |
| Internal Reference | 2.5 V bandgap, +/-2% (max) |
| Data Interface | Serial |
| Sample-and-Hold | Integrated |
| Input Type | Single-ended or differential |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C |
| Package | 24-SOIC (WM), wide-body |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
ADC10738CIWMX Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | CH0 — Analog input channel 0 |
| Pin 2 | CH1 — Analog input channel 1 |
| Pin 3 | CH2 — Analog input channel 2 |
| Pin 4 | CH3 — Analog input channel 3 |
| Pin 5 | CH4 — Analog input channel 4 |
| Pin 6 | CH5 — Analog input channel 5 |
| Pin 7 | CH6 — Analog input channel 6 |
| Pin 8 | CH7 — Analog input channel 7 |
| Pin 9 | AGND — Analog ground |
| Pin 10 | REF_OUT — Internal 2.5V reference output |
| Pin 11 | REF_IN — External reference input |
| Pin 12 | VDD — +5V supply |
| Pin 13 | DGND — Digital ground |
| Pin 14 | SCLK — Serial clock input |
| Pin 15 | CS — Chip select (active low) |
| Pin 16 | DOUT — Serial data output |
| Pin 17 | DIN — Serial data input (MUX address) |
| Pin 18 | PD — Power-down input |
| Pin 19 | NC — Not connected |
| Pin 20 | NC — Not connected |
| Pin 21 | NC — Not connected |
| Pin 22 | NC — Not connected |
| Pin 23 | NC — Not connected |
| Pin 24 | NC — Not connected |
Typical Applications
ADC10738CIWMX is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Process Control Loop Monitoring, Portable Digital Multimeters (DMMs), Multi-Channel Temperature and Sensor Data Loggers, Factory Automation Sensor Front End, Battery-Powered Portable Test Instruments, Medical Monitoring and Diagnostic Equipment.
Industrial Process Control Loop Monitoring
The ADC10738CIWMX is well-suited to industrial process control loop monitoring where 4-20 mA current loops from pressure, flow, level, and temperature transmitters must be digitized for a PLC or DCS. The 8-channel analog MUX allows a single ADC IC to sequentially monitor up to 8 loops, reducing BOM cost. With a 250 ohm sense resistor the converter digitizes the standard 1-5V loop span with 10-bit + sign resolution, and the 74 kSPS throughput is more than sufficient for typical 100 ms scan times. The bipolar +/-5V input range and integrated bandgap reference simplify the analog front end, while the wide -40C to +85C operating range supports factory-floor deployment.
Recommended
Portable Digital Multimeters (DMMs)
The ADC10738CIWMX is a strong choice for handheld digital multimeters and clamp meters where low power consumption, multi-range measurement, and small PCB area are priorities. The 18 uW power-down current extends battery life in standby mode, and the 5 us conversion time supports fast display updates for continuity and resistance measurements. The 8-channel MUX allows one ADC to digitize voltage, current, and resistance ranges selected by front-panel relays, while the +/-5V input range covers the standard 200 mV to 600 V CAT-III meter ranges when paired with a resistive attenuator. The 24-SOIC wide-body package is easy to hand-prototype and rework.
Recommended
Multi-Channel Temperature and Sensor Data Loggers
The ADC10738CIWMX supports 8-channel temperature, humidity, pressure, and strain-gauge data logging systems where multiple sensors must be sampled sequentially and stored for later download. The integrated sample-and-hold amplifier settles in less than 1 us, allowing the host to multiplex 8 thermocouples, RTDs, or load cells with one converter. The 2.5V bandgap reference can be used to drive bridge excitation at low current draw, while the +/-5V input range accommodates the bipolar outputs of many bridge-based sensors. The serial output reduces pin count, leaving more microcontroller I/O for SD card, LCD, or USB interfaces.
Recommended
Factory Automation Sensor Front End
The ADC10738CIWMX suits factory automation analog front ends where proximity, photoelectric, and level sensors feed a central PLC. The 8-channel MUX allows up to 8 sensors to share a single ADC IC, with channel selection handled by the host microcontroller over the serial interface. The 37 mW active power consumption is acceptable for DIN-rail modules, and the 5 us conversion time supports typical 1 ms scan rates for 8 channels. The bipolar input range accommodates the 0-10V and 4-20 mA standard industrial signal levels, and the wide operating temperature range tolerates cabinet temperatures up to +85C.
Recommended
Battery-Powered Portable Test Instruments
The ADC10738CIWMX fits battery-powered portable test and measurement equipment such as cable testers, gas detectors, and field calibration tools. The 18 uW power-down current preserves battery life in standby, while the 5 us active conversion supports fast measurement updates. The 8-channel MUX allows one ADC to read multiple sensor types (gas, temperature, humidity, flow) in sequence, eliminating the need for multiple ADC ICs. The 24-SOIC wide-body package is straightforward to hand-solder for low-volume production, and the 5V single-supply operation matches the typical Li-ion + boost-converter rail of handheld instruments.
Recommended
Medical Monitoring and Diagnostic Equipment
The ADC10738CIWMX can be used in non-critical medical monitoring and diagnostic equipment such as patient scales, blood-pressure cuffs, body-composition analyzers, and laboratory multi-channel analyzers. The 8-channel MUX allows the same ADC to digitize multiple biosignals (pressure, impedance, temperature) sequentially, and the integrated bandgap reference provides the stable 2.5V reference needed for accurate bridge measurements. The 10-bit + sign resolution and 5 us conversion time are sufficient for the 100-200 Hz signal bandwidth typical of slow physiological signals. The -40C to +85C operating range and wide-body SOIC package simplify medical IEC 60601-1 design verification.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for ADC10738CIWMX — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | ADC10738CIWMX/NOPB | ADC10738CIWM | ADC10158CIWMX/NOPB | ADC10154CIWM | ADC10464CIWMX/NOPB |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Texas Instruments | Texas Instruments | Texas Instruments | Texas Instruments | Texas Instruments | Texas Instruments |
| Package | 24-SOIC (WM) | 24-SOIC (WM) - same | 24-SOIC (WM) - same | 24-SOIC (WM) - same | 24-SOIC (WM) - same | 24-SOIC (WM) - same |
| Resolution | 10-bit + sign | 10-bit + sign | 10-bit + sign | 10-bit | 10-bit | 10-bit |
| Sampling Rate | 74 kSPS | 74 kSPS | 74 kSPS | ~77 kSPS | ~25 kSPS | ~200 kSPS |
| Number of Input Channels | 8 (single-ended) / 4 (diff) | 8 / 4 | 8 / 4 | 8 / 4 | 6 / 3 | 1 |
| Input Voltage Range | +/-5V bipolar or 0-5V unipolar | +/-5V / 0-5V | +/-5V / 0-5V | +/-10V bipolar | 0-5V unipolar | +/-5V / 0-5V |
| Internal Reference | 2.5V bandgap, +/-2% | 2.5V bandgap | 2.5V bandgap | 4.096V | External only | 2.5V bandgap |
| Supply Voltage | 5V single | 5V | 5V | +/-5V or 5V | 5V | 5V |
| Data Interface | Serial | Serial | Serial | Serial | Serial | Serial |
| Lifecycle Status | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete |
Key Differentiators
- Integrated 8-channel analog MUX reduces BOM cost (vs ADC10464CIWMX/NOPB)
- Bipolar +/-5V input range (vs ADC10154CIWM)
- Low power-down current for battery applications (vs ADC10158CIWMX/NOPB)
Design Notes
Place a 0.1 uF ceramic bypass capacitor as close as possible to the VDD pin (pin 12) and a 1 uF to 10 uF low-ESR capacitor on REF_OUT (pin 10). Use a separate analog ground plane that joins the digital ground at a single point near the ADC. Keep analog input traces short and guard them with a ground trace to minimize digital switching noise coupling into the high-impedance MUX inputs.
In power-down mode the ADC10738CIWMX draws only 18 uW, but the wakeup time is typically 10 us before the next valid conversion. For battery-powered portable instruments, drive PD low in standby and high only when needed. The 5V supply should be regulated to within +/-5%; an LDO (e.g. TI LP2985 or TPS7A4700) is recommended rather than a switching converter to avoid coupling switching noise into the SAR comparator.
Do not load REF_OUT with more than a few hundred microamps; the internal reference is designed to drive the REF_IN pin and a small external load only. When using an external precision reference applied to REF_IN, leave REF_OUT floating or apply a 100 nF bypass to AGND. To avoid channel-to-channel crosstalk, do not switch the MUX while the conversion is in progress - read the previous result first, then load the new MUX address in the next serial frame.
Compliance Information
Plain ADC10738CIWMX is supplied in leaded matte-tin finish and is not the lead-free RoHS variant; choose ADC10738CIWMX/NOPB for RoHS compliance. REACH and conflict-mineral compliance per Texas Instruments standard supply-chain declarations.
