Texas Instruments DAC7718EVM

Overview

DAC7718EVM from Texas Instruments is an evaluation module for the DAC7718 - a low-power, octal, 12-bit serial-input digital-to-analog converter with SPI interface up to 50 MHz, dual independent reference inputs (REF-A/REF-B), and configurable unipolar or bipolar operation. It supports full pin access, onboard 2.5V/5.0V precision references (REF5025/REF5050), and flexible power supply options including AVDD/AVSS/DVDD/IOVDD.

For engineers reviewing the DAC7718EVM datasheet, DAC7718EVM pinout, DAC7718EVM application, or DAC7718EVM equivalent, this EVM enables complete functional validation of the DAC7718's analog outputs (VOUT-0 to VOUT-7), offset DACs (OFFSET-A/B), VMON monitoring, GPIO control, and reference configuration - all with hardware jumper-based or digital interface-based setup.

Technical Context

The DAC7718EVM implements a modular TI EVM system design compatible with interface cards, featuring dual-row Samtec headers (J1–J4) for analog I/O, digital control, and power routing. It provides direct access to all 64 pins of the DAC7718 in TQFP-64 package via J1 (analog outputs), J2 (SPI/GPIO/control), J3 (power supplies), and J4 (AIN inputs).

Reference architecture supports simultaneous REF-A (for VOUT-0–VOUT-3) and REF-B (for VOUT-4–VOUT-7), selectable between onboard REF5025 (2.5V), REF5050 (5.0V), or external sources via J1.18/J1.20. Power sequencing (IOVDD → DVDD → AVDD/AVSS → reference) is enforced via jumper-configurable supplies and protection diodes (D1/D2).

Key Specifications

Availability

DAC7718EVM is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for precision analog design validation, industrial DAC characterization, and embedded control system prototyping requiring stable component supply and full hardware configurability.

Supply support for DAC7718EVM 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

Texas Instruments is a global semiconductor company specializing in analog, embedded processing, and high-performance analog products for industrial, automotive, and communications applications.

The DAC7718EVM belongs to TI's Precision Analog Evaluation Modules product line, designed specifically to accelerate development and validation of high-accuracy DACs in systems demanding low glitch, good linearity, and flexible reference/power architectures.

FAQ

What is the DAC7718EVM used for?

The DAC7718EVM is an evaluation module built to validate the DAC7718 - a low-power, octal, 12-bit DAC. It enables full functional testing of all eight analog outputs, dual-reference operation, offset DACs, VMON monitoring, and SPI/GPIO control. DAC7718EVM does not include a microprocessor and requires external host interface (e.g., MCU or DSP) for digital control and data loading.

Does the DAC7718EVM support both unipolar and bipolar output modes?

Yes, the DAC7718EVM supports both unipolar and bipolar operation via jumper JP15: in bipolar mode, AVSS is powered from J3.2 (−VA); in unipolar mode, JP15 connects AVSS to board ground. Default configuration is bipolar. Reference selection (REF-A/REF-B), power supply voltages, and OFFSET-A/B routing must be adjusted accordingly per mode, as detailed in the DAC7718EVM User's Guide (SBAU165A).

How are the two reference inputs (REF-A and REF-B) configured on the DAC7718EVM?

REF-A (for VOUT-0–VOUT-3) and REF-B (for VOUT-4–VOUT-7) are independently configurable using jumpers JP1–JP4. JP1/JP3 select 2.5V (REF5025) or 5.0V (REF5050); JP2/JP4 select onboard or external reference applied at J1.18 (REF-A) or J1.20 (REF-B). Test points TP3 and TP4 allow verification of applied reference voltages, and RC filtering (8 Hz cutoff) applies to external references unless bypassed via TP3/TP4.

Can the DAC7718EVM operate without external software or host controller?

No. The DAC7718EVM has no onboard processor or firmware and cannot function autonomously. It requires connection to an external host (e.g., MCU, DSP, or FPGA) via J2 header to drive SPI signals (CS, SCLK, SDI), control logic (CLR, RESET, LDAC), and GPIOs. TI provides code examples for compatible processors, but no dedicated GUI or driver is included with the DAC7718EVM.

What power supply sequencing is required for safe operation of the DAC7718EVM?

TI specifies strict power-up sequence to prevent device damage: IOVDD must be applied first, followed by DVDD, then AVDD and AVSS simultaneously, and finally the reference voltage. This order is enforced through jumper-selectable supplies and internal protection diodes (D1/D2). Failure to follow this sequence risks latch-up or permanent damage to the DAC7718 device mounted on the DAC7718EVM.