Digital-Analog Converters Are a "Bit" Analog - AN1055

Despite the popularity of digital devices, real world signals are typically represented by analog signals. Digital control systems process real world analog signals by using an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) to convert analog signals to digital. Conversions back to analog signals are accomplished using a digital-toanalog converter (DAC). Maxim offers a complete line of precision DACs from 8 to 16 bits. It is important to find a DAC that meets to requirements of the application. A design engineer needs to look at parameters such as linearity, resolution, speed, and accuracy when selecting a DAC. Despite the widespread use of digital electronics, the real world is still analog. As a result, digital-to-analog converters (DACs) are needed at the point of contact between digital and analog sections of a system. The following discussion covers important parameters that should be taken into account when selecting a DAC, and it also highlights some interesting features available in new devices. Most electronic devices now include digital control circuitry (as illustrated by the recent Y2K problem), but analog values are still needed to control valves, loudspeakers, and other actuators. The conversion from digital to analog is usually accomplished within a dedicated D/A converter. This DAC can be selected from the vast array of available standard circuits, in accordance with the conversion requirements and system settings.