Counter-ramp (digital ramp) ADC – to enable automatic continuous conversions, should the end-of-conversion (EOC) signal be routed to the counter clear/start so that the next ramp begins immediately?

Introduction / Context: In a counter-ramp ADC, a digital counter drives a DAC to create a staircase that rises until it matches the analog input, as detected by a comparator. Once a match is detected, the current count is latched as the result. Configuring the control lines allows either single-shot operation or continuous conversions.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• EOC indicates that the DAC count has reached the comparison threshold.
• The counter has a clear or load input to reset for the next conversion.
• Clock source is available to step the counter.

Concept / Approach: To run conversions back-to-back, the system can use EOC to automatically reset and restart the counter, initiating the next ramp without external intervention. This creates a free-running conversion loop: count up → compare → latch result → clear → repeat, yielding a steady stream of conversion results at a rate set by the clock and input magnitude dynamics.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check: Logic timing diagrams of digital-ramp ADCs often show EOC used to reset the counter; continuous mode is a common teaching lab configuration.

Why Other Options Are Wrong: Input being DC is not a requirement; synchronous counters are typical but not the principle; dual-slope is a different ADC architecture altogether.

Common Pitfalls: Forgetting to debounce or shape EOC properly; not latching the result before clearing can lose the conversion value.

Final Answer: Correct