The Microchip MCP3008 is a great chip to have if you need to read in analog signals. This Analog to Digital Converter (ADC) has 8 channels and a resolution of 10 bits allowing you to measure a lot of analog signals accurately. The SPI interface provides fast communication with a controlling microcontroller or Raspberry Pi.

This chip is very popular for adding an ADC to a Raspberry Pi, as on its own, a Raspberry Pi cannot read in analog signals.

Features

• 10-bit resolution
• 8 input channels
• SPI serial interface (modes 0,0 and 1,1)
• Single supply operation: 2.7V - 5.5V
• 200 ksps max. sampling rate at VDD = 5V
• 75 ksps max. sampling rate at VDD = 2.7V
• Analog inputs programmable as single-ended or pseudo-differential pairs
• On-chip sample and hold
• 5 nA typical standby current, 2 μA max.
• 500 μA max. active current at 5V
• Industrial temp range: -40°C to +85°C

Useful Links

Datasheet