Analog switch on an instrumentation amplifier input

Question

I'm working on a project for school that involves a configurable input stage (AC/DC coupling and variable input impedance) connected to an instrumentation amplifier. I am wondering whether I will experience any major DC offset issues if I connect an analog switch to the in-amp's inputs, or if I would be better of using relays.

Here's what my input stage currently looks like:

A few notes on the design:

• The 1.3k resistor pair provides protection for the input stage
• The resistor network connected to the switch is designed to allow be to select the input impedance
  • The options are infinite, 50ohm single-ended, 75ohm single-ended, 100ohm differential, and 150ohm differential.
• To the left (out of image), there is a mechanical relay-based AC/DC coupling selection circuit
• I realize that the analog switch will have no protection, but I'm hesitant to use diodes due to leakage currents
• I do not need fast switching

This question is mainly about leakage current: is the leakage of a CMOS switch (such as the ADG409) low enough that it won't produce a significant DC offset at the output? Or would I be better off using relays?

Edit: something like the MAX14778 would be a better option, assuming that the leakage currents are common-mode. The only problem is that it comes in a 5x5mm QFN package, which is not ideal for prototyping.

Answer 1

The analog switch by itself will not introduce a DC offset into the signal. That is, it does not add electrons from its Vdd pin to the signal channel. Leakage currents are sub-nanoamp in Fig. 9. Only you can say whether or not this error is significant.

You don't say what the signal bandwidth or amplitude is, and the FET switch characteristics can affect both of those.

A single channel ON resistance varies between 40 and 125 ohms in the tables, but is worse in the chart for your conditions. This is in series with all of your termination options. For example, two of these channels are in series with your 50 ohm differential terminator, significantly affecting the effective termination impedance seen by the signal.

Datasheet fig. 7 shows how the resistance varies instantaneously with signal amplitude. If the signals are source-terminated (example: 50 ohm output resistance at the source), this creates a voltage divider that varies with signal amplitude. The series leg is the 50 ohms at the source, and the shunt leg varies between 210 and 260 ohms (50 ohms + (2 x switch resistance)).

Based on nothing but what you've said so far, I'd look for a better switch. ADI and others have parts with 5 ohm (ish) ON values.