The ADS8201 is a low-power, complete on-chip data acquisition system optimized for portable applications that require direct connections, wide dynamic range, and automatic operation with very low power consumption. The device includes a 12-bit, capacitor-based, successive approximation register (SAR) analog-to-digital converter (ADC); a high-performance, continuous-time programmable gain amplifier (PGA); and a fully automatic scan, 8-to-1 multiplexer (mux) with breakout to allow for system design flexibility.

Many other features are included to further optimize system operation. Conversion results may be saved in an onboard first-in/first-out (FIFO) buffer and read out at a later time. Each channel has a gain setting that can be loaded automatically when it is selected.