I want to connect to multiple slave devices. With the Aardvark I2C/SPI Host Adapter, I would like to use an analog switch to make or break the connection to the slave devices chip select(CS), along with pull-ups. Do you have a recommended method for interfacing to multiple SPI slave devices?

Thanks for your question! For the circuit you are considering, we do not have specific recommendations but an analog switch for CS and/or a multiplexer IC that you could control with GPIOs to select the outputs should work.  For that customized setup, Aardvark API Software could help you create a program for full control.

We do have recommendations for specific tools that support interfacing with multiple SPI slave devices without the need for additional equipment.

For up to three SPI slaves , we recommend the Cheetah SPI Host Adapter,  The Cheetah adapter actively communicates on the bus, operates at high speeds up to 40+ MHz and has three SPI SS signals so it can interface with up to three SPI slaves.

For more than three SPI slaves, you can use the Promira Serial Platform with the SPI Active - Level 3 Application. The Promira platform provides other advantages, including built-in level shifter, Ethernet and high-speed USB interfaces, and ability to provide up to 200mA to the target device.

For an overview, the table below summarizes the features of Total Phase tools.

Additional resources that you may find helpful include the following:

• Aardvark I2C/SPI Host Adapter User Manual
• Cheetah SPI Host Adapter User Manual
• Promira Serial Platform I2C/SPI Active User Manual

We hope this answers your question. Want more information? You can contact us and request a demo that applies to your application, as well as ask about our Total Phase products.

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