Texas Instruments DAC8218EVM

Overview

DAC8218EVM from Texas Instruments is an evaluation module for the DAC8218 - a low-power, octal, 14-bit serial-input digital-to-analog converter in TQFP-64 package. It supports unipolar or bipolar operation, dual independent reference inputs (REF-A/REF-B), and full pin access via J1–J4 headers and test points. Designed for precision analog output validation in industrial control and test instrumentation.

For engineers reviewing the DAC8218EVM datasheet, DAC8218EVM pinout, DAC8218EVM application, or DAC8218EVM equivalent, this page delivers verified hardware configuration details, jumper-controlled reference selection (2.5V/5.0V onboard or external), SPI interface support up to 50 MHz, and dual-supply power sequencing guidance - all critical for DAC8218 characterization and system integration.

Technical Context

The DAC8218EVM implements TI's Modular EVM System specification and interfaces directly with the DAC8218SPAG (TQFP-64) IC. It provides complete access to all 64 pins via standardized headers (J1–J4) and configurable jumpers for REF-A/REF-B selection, IOVDD/DVDD voltage options (1.8V/3.3V/5V), and LDAC routing.

Reference architecture supports two independent voltage references: REF-A (VOUT-0 to VOUT-3) and REF-B (VOUT-4 to VOUT-7), each selectable between onboard REF5025 (2.5V), REF5050 (5.0V), or external source via J1.18/J1.20. Analog outputs are routed to J1 (10-pin dual-row Samtec TSM-110-01-T-DV-P) and monitored at TP3–TP6.

Key Specifications

Availability

DAC8218EVM is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for precision DAC evaluation, analog signal chain prototyping, and industrial calibration system development requiring stable component supply and full hardware configurability.

Supply support for DAC8218EVM 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 headquartered in Dallas, Texas, specializing in analog, embedded processing, and high-performance analog products for industrial, automotive, and communications markets.

The DAC8218EVM belongs to TI's Precision Analog Evaluation Module family, engineered specifically to accelerate validation of high-accuracy DACs in demanding applications such as automated test equipment and programmable logic controller analog I/O modules.

FAQ

What is the DAC8218EVM used for?

The DAC8218EVM is a dedicated evaluation module for the DAC8218 octal 14-bit DAC. It enables full functional testing, reference voltage characterization, SPI timing validation, and analog output linearity assessment. Engineers use DAC8218EVM to verify DAC8218 behavior under real-world supply configurations, including dual-supply bipolar operation and independent REF-A/REF-B setups before integrating into final systems.

Does the DAC8218EVM include the DAC8218 IC?

Yes, the DAC8218EVM includes the DAC8218SPAG - the production-grade 14-bit octal DAC in TQFP-64 package - mounted on-board. This allows direct evaluation of the actual device, not a simulation or substitute. All DAC8218 pins are accessible via headers J1–J4 and test points TP1–TP13, enabling comprehensive signal probing and stimulus injection during DAC8218 validation.

How do I configure the DAC8218EVM for unipolar vs. bipolar operation?

Use JP15 to select AVSS connection: shunt pins 2–3 for unipolar (AVSS = GND), or pins 1–2 for bipolar (AVSS = –VA). Then configure jumpers JP1–JP4 for reference selection and JP6–JP7 for OFFSET routing - default jumper positions in Figure 2 (bipolar) and Figure 3 (unipolar) of the SBAU166A User's Guide define valid settings for each mode. DAC8218EVM requires strict power-up sequence: IOVDD → DVDD → AVDD/AVSS → reference.

Can I use an external reference with the DAC8218EVM?

Yes - DAC8218EVM supports external references on both REF-A and REF-B channels. Connect external voltage to J1.18 (for VOUT-0 to VOUT-3) and/or J1.20 (for VOUT-4 to VOUT-7), then configure JP2 (REF-A) and JP4 (REF-B) to "external" position (shunt pins 1–2). The signal passes through an 8 Hz RC filter; for unfiltered input, connect directly to TP3 (REF-A) or TP4 (REF-B) instead of J1.18/J1.20.

What digital interface does the DAC8218EVM support?

The DAC8218EVM supports standard SPI communication up to 50 MHz via J2 header, with dedicated pins for CS, SCLK, SDI/SDO, LDAC (dual-source selectable via JP12), CLR, RESET, BTC/USB, and WAKEUP. All digital control signals are accessible either through J2 (top/bottom) or JP14 jumpers, and default to IOVDD-pulled-high (10 kΩ) for safe startup. No onboard microcontroller is included - host processor required.