The AD7878 is a fast, complete, 12-bit A/D converter with a versatile DSP interface consisting of an 8-word, first-in, first-out (FIFO) memory and associated control logic. The FIFO memory allows up to eight samples to be digitized before the microprocessor is required to service the A/D converter. The eight words can then be read out of the FIFO at maximum microprocessor speed. A fast data access time of 41 ns allows direct interfacing to DSP processors and high speed 16-bit microprocessors.