16-Bit Monolithic Digital-to-Analog Converter

The PCM54 and PCM55 family of converters are parallel input, fully monotonic, 16-bit digital-to-analog converters that are designed and specified for digital audio applications. These devices employ ultra-stable nichrome (NiCr) thin-film resistors to provide monotonicity, low distortion, and low differential linearity error (especially around bipolar zero) over long periods of time and over the full operating temperature. These converters are completely self-contained with a stable, low noise, internal, zener voltage reference; high speed current switches; a resistor ladder network; and a fast settling, low noise output operational amplifier all on a single monolithic chip. The converters are operated using two power supplies that can range from ±5V (PCM55) to ±12V (PCM54). Power dissipation with ±5V supplies is typically less than 200mW. Also included is a provision for external adjustment of the MSB error (differential linearity error at bipolar zero, PCM54 only) to further improve Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) specifications if desired. A current output (IOUT) wiring option is provided. This output typically settles to within ±0.006% of FSR final value in 350ns (in response to a full-scale change in the digital input code). The PCM54 is packaged in 28-pin plastic DIP package. The PCM55 is available in a 24-lead plastic miniflatpak.