Analog Devices Inc. DAC08EQ

Overview

DAC08EQ from Analog Devices is an 8-bit, high-speed multiplying digital-to-analog converter with complementary current outputs, ±0.1% nonlinearity over temperature, 85 ns settling time, and ±4.5 V to ±18 V dual-supply operation. It serves as a precision current-output DAC in waveform generation, servo motor control, and programmable power supply feedback loops.

For engineers reviewing the DAC08EQ datasheet, DAC08EQ pinout, DAC08EQ application, or DAC08EQ equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed 8-bit monotonicity, full-scale current drift of ±10 ppm/°C, wide logic input swing (−10 V to +18 V), and direct interface capability with TTL, CMOS, ECL, HTL, and PMOS families without level-shifting.

Technical Context

The DAC08EQ implements a monolithic current-steering architecture with matched internal resistor networks and high-impedance complementary current outputs (IOUT and IOUT). Its reference amplifier supports both DC and AC (multiplying) operation, with bandwidth up to 1 MHz and slew rate up to 16 mA/µs under pulsed conditions.

Logic inputs feature adjustable threshold via VLC pin (Pin 1), enabling robust interfacing across logic families; output compliance spans −10 V to +18 V relative to V−, supporting differential load driving and direct R-to-V conversion without external op amps in many configurations.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 16-lead CERDIP (Q package), hermetically sealed ceramic dual-in-line, suitable for extended temperature and high-reliability applications.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with AD7524JRZ, DAC08EQ offers faster settling (85 ns vs. 100 ns) and lower power (33 mW vs. ~60 mW), while DAC0808LCN provides identical core performance in a less rugged but more widely available PDIP package-making DAC08EQ optimal for high-reliability, space-constrained, or extended-temperature embedded systems.

Availability

DAC08EQ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for waveform generation, servo motor control, and programmable power supplies requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle assurance, and MIL-qualified reliability.

Supply support for DAC08EQ 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 designed specifically for high-speed, low-cost, multiplying D/A conversion in industrial control, instrumentation, and military/aerospace systems where 8-bit precision, wide supply tolerance, and logic-family interoperability are essential.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for DAC08EQ?

The DAC08EQ is specified for 0°C to +70°C ambient operation, as confirmed in the Absolute Maximum Ratings table (Table 3) of the Rev. D datasheet. This distinguishes it from the DAC08AQ (−55°C to +125°C) and DAC08CQ (−40°C to +85°C) variants. The DAC08EQ's thermal resistance is θJA = 100°C/W in its 16-lead CERDIP package, supporting reliable operation within this commercial-industrial range.

Does DAC08EQ require external op amps for voltage output?

No-DAC08EQ does not require external op amps for basic voltage output. Its complementary current outputs (IOUT and IOUT) support direct conversion to voltage using a single load resistor tied to a compliant supply rail (e.g., V− or ground), leveraging its −10 V to +18 V output compliance. An op amp is only needed for low-impedance buffered voltage output, differential amplification, or active filtering beyond passive RC networks.

How is the logic threshold adjusted on DAC08EQ?

The logic threshold on DAC08EQ is adjusted via Pin 1 (VLC): applying a voltage here shifts the input switching point by approximately VLC + 1.4 V, as shown in Figure 16 of the datasheet. For TTL compatibility, VLC is grounded; for ECL, VLC is biased to −1.3 V. The DAC08EQ's input accepts −10 V to +18 V logic swings, and VLC must be driven with low impedance (<1 kΩ) for fastest propagation delay (35 ns typical).

What is the full-scale current drift specification for DAC08EQ?

DAC08EQ has a full-scale current drift of ±10 ppm/°C, as stated in Table 1 (Electrical Characteristics) under "FULL-SCALE TEMPCO" for the DAC08E grade. This value is guaranteed over the 0°C to +70°C operating range and reflects the tight matching between internal resistor networks and reference amplifier stability-critical for programmable gain and calibration-sensitive applications.

Can DAC08EQ operate with asymmetric power supplies?

Yes-DAC08EQ operates with asymmetric supplies, such as +5 V and −12 V, as explicitly supported in the General Description and Power Supplies section. Its design is insensitive to supply imbalance; specifications hold across ±4.5 V to ±18 V per rail, and the minimum total supply is 9 V. Asymmetry affects only output compliance limits (e.g., negative compliance depends on V− and IREF), not core DAC functionality or timing.