**AD9928BBCZ: A Comprehensive Technical Overview of ON Semiconductor's CCD Signal Processor**

The AD9928BBCZ from ON Semiconductor represents a highly integrated, high-performance solution designed for processing signals from Charge-Coupled Device (CCD) sensors. As a cornerstone component in imaging applications, this IC combines critical analog and digital functions into a single package, optimizing the signal chain for superior image quality in demanding environments such as professional digital still cameras, machine vision systems, and high-end scanners.

**Architecture and Core Functionality**

At its heart, the AD9928BBCZ is a mixed-signal system-on-chip (SoC). Its primary role is to take the weak analog output from a CCD sensor and process it into a clean, high-quality digital video signal. The key to its performance lies in its highly integrated architecture, which eliminates the need for numerous external components, simplifies board design, and enhances overall system reliability.

The core analog signal path begins with a **low-noise correlated double sampler (CDS)**. This circuit is critical for extracting the video information from the CCD output while simultaneously suppressing reset noise (kTC noise) and low-frequency noise, significantly improving the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). The processed signal then passes through a **programmable gain amplifier (PGA)** and a high-performance **14-bit analog-to-digital converter (ADC)**. The PGA allows for real-time adjustment of the signal level to optimize dynamic range under varying lighting conditions, while the high-resolution ADC ensures precise digitization of the analog waveform.

**Timing and Control: The System Conductor**

A defining feature of the AD9928BBCZ is its integrated timing generator. This powerful digital engine produces all the critical and complex clock signals required to drive the CCD sensor, including horizontal and vertical transfer clocks. Its programmability via a serial peripheral interface (SPI) is a significant advantage, offering designers **exceptional flexibility to interface with a vast array of CCD sensors** without requiring changes to the hardware. This programmability extends to nearly all aspects of operation, from the CCD driving clocks to the internal PGA and offset adjustments, making it a versatile choice for multiple product designs.

**Advanced Features for Image Quality Enhancement**

Beyond the fundamental signal processing, the AD9928BBCZ incorporates several features to enhance image quality and system integration. It includes **black level clamping circuitry** to maintain a consistent black reference, which is vital for accurate color reproduction. Furthermore, the device supports various power-down modes for reduced energy consumption in portable applications. Its single 3.3V supply operation simplifies power management design, and its compact package makes it suitable for space-constrained applications.

**Application Spectrum**

The technical capabilities of the AD9928BBCZ make it ideally suited for a broad range of high-end imaging applications. It is a preferred choice in:

* **Professional and Industrial Digital Still Cameras (DSCs)**

* **High-Performance Machine Vision and Inspection Systems**

* **Medical and Scientific Imaging Equipment**

* **High-Resolution Document and Film Scanners**

**ICGOODFIND**

The ON Semiconductor AD9928BBCZ stands as a testament to highly integrated mixed-signal design. By merging a low-noise analog front-end with a flexible digital timing core and high-resolution conversion, it provides a complete, reliable, and high-performance signal processing solution for advanced CCD-based imaging systems. Its programmability ensures design longevity and adaptability, solidifying its position as a critical component for engineers demanding the highest image quality.

**Keywords:**

1. **CCD Signal Processor**

2. **Correlated Double Sampler (CDS)**

3. **Timing Generator**

4. **Programmable Gain Amplifier (PGA)**

5. **14-bit ADC**