Recently, module products that package multiple parts into one package are often used in design. However, isn't there still a lot of customers who are reluctant to use "modules"?

In this article, we will explain in an easy-to-understand manner how the quality of module products has improved and the benefits of using them, so that such resistance can be alleviated as much as possible.

Hate modules?

The following are the reasons why customers feel reluctance to use module products.

  • It's a black Box because I didn't design it myself
  • Unable to fix when there is a functional problem
  • Uncertainty about the quality (reliability) of products assembled in-house


Module adoption is difficult unless these uneasy elements disappear.

But I want to consolidate semiconductors into a single chip

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The reasons for consolidating semiconductors (ICs) into a single package are as follows.

  • The ADC and interface controller are built into the microcomputer to reduce costs
  • All functionality and performance are verified by the manufacturer, so you can rest assured
  • Shipping inspections are also done before shipment, so it is safer than inspecting after assembling multiple units.


Why does the mentality (thinking) that black Box are OK for ICs and NG for modules arise?
"Because we have had trouble with module products in the past."
I guess that's why you say

μModule® fulfills such a request!

ADI's μModule® differs greatly from traditional modules in production testing.

A µModule®, which is the same size as an IC package, can be tested in the same way as an IC by a semiconductor tester. In the shipping test, the same inspection as for ICs can be performed, so it is now possible to build high-quality products.

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µModule® (ADAQ7980) package size

Modularization of analog circuits has many advantages

By modularizing the analog circuits, the following advantages can be obtained for the customer.

  1. Reduction of peripheral parts
  2. Miniaturization
  3. Reduction of design man-hours
  4. High performance


In particular, in the design of signal chains (analog circuits) that combine AD converters and operational amplifiers, etc., if everything is packaged in one package, you can enjoy benefits 1 to 3. In addition, the pattern design on the PCB (Printed Circuit Board), which determines the performance of the signal chain, is all done inside the module, making it possible to achieve the high performance of 4.

"ADAQ798x" series ideal for systems with analog circuits

μModule® is an essential item for system design with high-performance analog circuits required for systems such as testers and environmental monitors.

The ADAQ798x series of μModule® products are 50% smaller than conventional discrete designs. As a result, PCB pattern design becomes easier and the signal quality of analog circuits can be improved.

As a future design trend, high-speed data processing will be required, and parallel simultaneous conversion of analog/digital conversion will be essential. At that time, high precision and multi-channel are required without changing the size of the entire system, so miniaturization is required more than ever.

Even if careful attention is paid to discrete design using conventional methods, the signal, power supply, and GND wiring that connects each device becomes extremely long, making it difficult to design a small, high-performance system.

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Size comparison between discrete and μModule® designs

The ADAQ798x series satisfies the specifications required by customers for compact, high-precision system design by incorporating difficult signal, power, and GND wiring patterns within the module.

If you would like to know more about the ADAQ798x series products, please refer to this article I wrote earlier.
Single-chip peripheral components! "ADAQ798x" series


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Single-chip peripheral components! "ADAQ798x" series

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ADAQ7980 Evaluation Board