Extremely low-power DACs prolong battery life in portable apps and circuits where power efficiencies are of concern

SUNNYVALE, USA: Maxim Integrated Products has introduced the MAX5214 (14-bit) and MAX5216 (16-bit) digital-to-analog converters (DACs).

With power consumption less than 80microamps IQ, these DACs prolong battery life in portable applications. Best-in-class accuracy, a small package size, and the low current consumption and make these devices equally attractive in 2-wire sensors where low current levels must be measured and power efficiency is important.

While the MAX5214/MAX5216 single-channel DACs already have extremely low power consumption, programmability adds flexibility and efficiency to power usage. Power consumption can be reduced further by writing the power-down sequence into the device registers. This makes the devices applicable for systems with limited power budgets such as portable glucose meters.

In these cases, the devices can be powered-on to perform the required tasks with 80microamps of current consumption in operation mode and then powered down to reduce the electrical current consumption to 0.4microamps. Additionally, on power-up, the MAX5214/MAX5216 reset the DAC output to zero, providing extra safety for applications that drive valves or other transducers that need to be off on power-up.

These DACs are the best in their class for accuracy and precision. The MAX5214 and MAX5216 provide ±0.25 LSB and ±1 LSB of integral nonlinearity (INL), respectively, over their wide resolution spectrum. They are ideal for high-performance systems executing repetitive tasks in numerous counts that demand the same high precision and accuracy each time. Motor controllers in robotic applications are a typical example.

The MAX5214/MAX5216 integrate an internal buffer, which reduces both the number of external components needed in the system design and the total space required on the PCB. Buffer integration also simplifies design in.

The MAX5214/MAX5216 operate efficiently in industrial environments from -40 degrees Celsius to +105 degrees Celsius. Both devices are offered in a compact 8-pin uMAX(R) package. Pricing starts at $3.89 (1,000-up, FoB USA).