Analog Devices Inc. DAC08EP

Overview

DAC08EP from Analog Devices is an 8-bit, high-speed multiplying current-output digital-to-analog converter (DAC) with 85 ns settling time, ±0.1% nonlinearity over temperature, complementary current outputs (IOUT/IOUT), and ±4.5 V to ±18 V dual-supply operation. It delivers full-scale current prematched to ±1 LSB and supports direct TTL/CMOS/ECL logic interfacing - used in waveform generators, servo motor drivers, and high-speed modems.

For engineers reviewing the DAC08EP datasheet, DAC08EP pinout, DAC08EP application, or DAC08EP equivalent, key selection criteria include its 85 ns settling time, 1 MHz multiplying bandwidth, −10 V to +18 V output compliance, ±10 ppm/°C full-scale drift, and compatibility with unipolar/bipolar reference configurations without external trimming.

Technical Context

The DAC08EP implements a segmented R-2R ladder architecture with precision current-switching cells and a high-gain internal reference amplifier. Its multiplying operation enables linear IOUT = (D/256) × IREF scaling across a 20:1 reference current range (4 µA–4 mA), with guaranteed monotonicity and no missing codes.

Logic inputs feature adjustable threshold control via VLC (Pin 1), supporting wide-swing operation (−10 V to +18 V at V− = −15 V) and noise-immune interfacing to TTL, CMOS, ECL, HTL, and PMOS families. Complementary current outputs allow differential load driving or single-ended conversion using external op amps.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 16-lead plastic dual in-line package (PDIP), 0.3" wide, JEDEC MS-001 compliant. Thermal resistance θJA = 82°C/W, θJC = 39°C/W.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 8-bit multiplying DAC applications.

Compared with AD7524JRZ and MAX538BCPA+, the DAC08EP uniquely combines 85 ns speed, ±1 LSB matching, adjustable logic threshold, and true multiplying operation - making it optimal for high-bandwidth, mixed-voltage, current-output systems where timing and interface robustness are critical.

Availability

DAC08EP is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for waveform generation, servo motor control, audio encoding, programmable power supplies, and high-speed modem design requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and voltage ranges.

Supply support for DAC08EP includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Analog Devices, Inc. is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing semiconductors, headquartered in Norwood, MA.

The DAC08 series was engineered for high-speed, low-cost, and versatile multiplying DAC applications - targeting test instrumentation, industrial control, and military/aerospace systems demanding speed, precision, and rugged interface capability.

FAQ

What is the maximum reference current supported by the DAC08EP?

The DAC08EP supports reference current (IREF) from 4 µA up to 4.0 mA. At IREF = 2.0 mA, it achieves 85 ns settling time and ±1 LSB full-scale matching. Operation above 4 mA risks exceeding absolute maximum ratings; below 4 µA reduces output SNR and increases relative quantization error. The DAC08EP datasheet specifies guaranteed performance across this full range with monotonicity maintained.

Does the DAC08EP require external trimming for full-scale accuracy?

No, the DAC08EP does not require external full-scale trimming in most applications due to factory prematching of full-scale current (IFR) to reference current (IREF) within ±1 LSB. This matching eliminates the need for R14 adjustment in standard configurations. Only when extreme temperature stability or system-level calibration is required should a potentiometer-based full-scale trim (per Figure 27) be implemented - the DAC08EP itself ships calibrated.

Can the DAC08EP operate from asymmetric power supplies?

Yes, the DAC08EP operates reliably with asymmetric supplies - for example, +15 V on V+ and −5 V on V−. Its design is insensitive to supply imbalance, and output compliance depends primarily on V− (−10 V min) and internal headroom. Asymmetric operation expands use in battery-powered or legacy systems where dual-rail symmetry is unavailable; the DAC08EP maintains full 8-bit monotonicity and specified settling time under such conditions.

How does the VLC pin affect logic interface compatibility?

The VLC pin (Pin 1) sets the logic threshold voltage (VTH ≈ VLC + 1.4 V), enabling direct interface to TTL (ground VLC), ECL (apply −1.3 V), or 15 V CMOS (apply +13.6 V). This adjustability eliminates level translators and ensures noise immunity across logic families. For DAC08EP, VLC sourcing ~100 µA requires low-impedance drive; bypassing VLC with 0.01 µF to ground optimizes settling time and noise rejection.

What is the purpose of the COMP pin on the DAC08EP?

The COMP pin (Pin 16) connects an external capacitor to V− to stabilize the internal reference amplifier during multiplying (AC reference) operation. For R14 = 5 kΩ, a 75 pF capacitor is recommended; for pulse-mode operation with REQ ≈ 200 Ω, CC = 0 yields 120 ns full-scale transition. Without proper COMP compensation, the DAC08EP exhibits overshoot, ringing, or instability in variable-gain applications - the COMP pin is essential for bandwidth-critical multiplying use cases.