How to connect Maxim MAX1217/1218/1219 ADC Eval Kits to the VSI bus
With the MAX1217EVKIT it is possible to sample two analog signals up to 125 Msps with 12-bit resolution. The board features parallel-format LVDS outputs terminated on-board in addition to optionally powered 3.3V PECL outputs. The board contains balun/unbal transformers ADT1-1WT (1-400 MHz). They seem to work fine down to a few 100 kHz. Use down to DC is possible if SMT resistors are added to the board, which bypasses the transformers and drives the ADC single-endedly.
The Metsähovi VSIB board and other VSI-bus boards can be interfaced directly to the evaluation kit LVDS outputs. With one board it is possible to feed 12/16-bit dual channel data onto the VSI bus. With two boards, 4-channel 8-bit data can be placed on the VSI bus. To select between 2-channel and 4-channel modes and to route the eval kit signals in correct order to the VSI bus it is necessary to make a couple of simple cables.
1U rack box front panel dimensions and drilling info: as frontpanel.dxf (AutoCad, QCAD) or as PDF
Instructions for wiring the MAX1217 eval board to the 4 front panel 50/40-pin connectors: max1219cable.txt
Details on the MDR80, VSI and Maxim board connector pin-outs and signals: signals.txt
Currently the VSI 1PPS is a static '1' signal instead of the station 1 pulse per second. The VSI VALID signal is fixed to '1', too.
Picture of the final two-board assembly: (todo)