Analog Devices’ Eight-Channel 16-Bit DAC Features IDAC/VDAC Configuration
The AD5710R includes eight channels that can be configured for current or voltage output, a built-in 2.5 V, 3 ppm/°C reference, and robust diagnostic monitoring, all packaged in a compact WLCSP.
Analog Devices has released the AD5710R, an eight-channel, 16-bit digital-to-analog converter (DAC) designed for high-density systems requiring mixed-signal output versatility. A core feature of the device is the ability for each of the eight DAC channels to be independently configured as either a voltage output DAC (VDAC) or a current output DAC (IDAC). This design choice addresses the need for a single component capable of driving a variety of loads typically found in automated systems.
Analog Devices’ AD5710R features eight channels that can be configured as any VDAC or IDAC combination. Image used courtesy of Analog Devices
The AD5710R Octal Channel Configurable IDAC/VDAC
The new AD5710R provides 16-bit resolution and guarantees monotonicity, with a maximum differential nonlinearity (DNL) of ±1 LSB. The high degree of accuracy and resolution is further supported by an integrated 2.5 V voltage reference. This reference is critical for maintaining stability across the operating range, specified with a low typical temperature drift of 3 ppm/°C.
In VDAC configuration, the device’s output ranges are configurable for either 0 V to VREF or 0 V to 2×VREF. The architecture maintains a low maximum headroom of 70 mV for VDAC operation.
When configured as an IDAC, the device is capable of driving up to 50 mA of output current. The current output range is specified from 0 mA to 50 mA, with a low maximum headroom of 0.25 V. The ability to provide 50 mA of drive current makes the component suitable for applications that require direct driving of external components or high current density per channel.
Functional block diagram of the AD5710R. Image used courtesy of Analog Devices
Interface and System Reliability
The AD5710R’s communication and control are managed via a device addressable serial peripheral interface. This interface enables system designers to configure the eight channels and retrieve diagnostic information efficiently. For improved system reliability and condition monitoring, the device integrates several diagnostic features. Engineers can monitor key operational parameters, including the output voltage, output current, and the die temperature of the IC itself. The wide operating temperature range, specified from -40°C to 125°C, makes the device viable for industrial environments subject to temperature extremes.
In terms of form factor, the AD5710R utilizes a compact 2.1 mm × 2.2 mm, 25-ball wafer-level chip-scale packaging. This ultra-small footprint facilitates high channel density in space-constrained designs, such as high-channel-count instrumentation cards or optical networking modules. The output supply range for the component spans from 1.71 V to 5.5 V.
To begin working with the AD5710R, designers can use Analog Devices’ EVAL-AD5710R-ARDZ evaluation board. Image used courtesy of Analog Devices
An IDAC/VDAC for Flexible Output
The AD5710R offers a highly integrated and flexible solution for mixed-signal output generation by consolidating eight 16-bit DAC channels with independent VDAC or IDAC output capability. Supported by an on-chip, low-drift reference and comprehensive diagnostic monitoring, the component is suited for systems where channel density and signal integrity are critical. Potential applications include process control and industrial automation, data acquisition systems, automatic test equipment, and optical networking hardware.
