--- Quote Start ---
Wow, to use Cyclone IV as a 1-bit ADC sounds very cool. What should I care about using this method? The voltage level connected to SMA connector, LVDS or something else?
Your advice is right. I should involve some simulation before the hardware stage.
--- Quote End ---
So long as you do not violate the input voltage range of the transceiver, its no problem. You can also use an external 1-bit comparator. Hittite, InPhi, and others have parts. To synchronously sample at 1-bit, you need to force the transceiver to stay in lock-to-reference mode. You can also use a couple of comparators and create a 2-bit/3-level ADC.
The downside of the 1-bit ADC is that you lose amplitude/power information, since you are essentially detecting just the zero crossings. However, you can recover that with an external power measurement.
A 1-bit ADC is not necessarily appropriate for your application - so don't set your heart on it just yet - the key is to design your system before diving into hardware.
Cheers,
Dave
Honored Contributor
