Microchip expands non-volatile digital-to-analog converter family

CHANDLER, USA: Microchip Technology Inc., a leading provider of microcontroller, analog and Flash-IP solutions, announced the expansion of its non-volatile Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) product line with the MCP4706/16/26 (MCP47X6) devices.

The low-power, single-channel DACs feature buffered 8-,10- and 12-bit voltage output options and integrated EEPROM, and are offered in a miniature 2 mm x 2 mm DFN package, as well as a 6-pin SOT-23 package. The DACs are ideal for applications in the consumer and industrial markets, such as wireless microphones and mp3-player accessories; and applications such as motor control, flow measurement, temperature control and light control.

Integrated EEPROM enables DAC settings to be recalled at power up, for added system flexibility. The choice of 8-, 10- or 12-bit resolution provides flexibility with regard to design requirements and cost, while the buffered output voltage allows a selectable gain of 1 or 2, and provides a rail-to-rail output. Low power consumption of 210 microamperes extends battery life, and the small packages reduce the amount of board space consumed.

“We have utilized our expertise in both memory and mixed-signal devices to provide added flexibility to our customers with the MCP47X6 DAC family,” said Bryan J. Liddiard, vice president of marketing with Microchip’s Analog & Interface Products Division. “The new DACs enable a decreased footprint, with the 6-pin 2 mm x 2 mm DFN package option.”

Jefferay Lawton, product marketing manager with Microchip’s Analog and Interface Products Division, continued, “This expansion of our non-volatile DAC line will enable customers to continue developing more creative designs while meeting requirements for small size and low cost.”

Microchip also announced the MCP47X6 PICtail Plus Daughter Board (part # ADM00317, $24.99). The board contains the MCP4706 (8-bit), MCP4716 (10-bit), and MCP4726 (12-bit) DACs. It allows a connection to either the Explorer 16 Starter Kit (part # DV164033) for 16-and 32-bit PIC microcontrollers (MCUs), or the PICkit Serial Analyzer (part # DV164122), for reading and writing to the DAC registers using the PICkit Serial Analyzer PC software.

The MCP4706, MCP4716 and MCP4726 DACs are available in 6-pin SOT-23 and 2x2 mm DFN packages, at prices ranging from $0.51 to $0.69 each, in 10,000-unit quantities.