DACs Offer Simultaneous Voltage And Current Outputs

A new family of digital-to-analog converters (DACs) unveiled by Texas Instruments promise to increase the accuracy and performance of applications ranging from programmable-logic-controller (PC) I/O modules and field sensors/transmitters to building automation systems. According to TI, the DAC8760 DACs are the first to provide simultaneous voltage and current outputs, enabling the use of one or both outputs. Each device includes voltage output, 4- to 20-mA output, precision reference, and a low-dropout regulator (LDO). A watchdog timer and cyclic redundancy check bring on-chip reliability and diagnostics. Maximum total unadjusted error (TUE) is 0.1%. With the serial peripheral interface (SPI), designers can program ranges for voltage and current outputs. Operating temperature ranges from ‒40 to +125°C. Evaluation modules are available for all family members.

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