Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX516BENG

Overview

MAX516BENG from Maxim Integrated is a 12-bit, single-channel, voltage-output digital-to-analog converter (DAC) with internal 2.048V reference, rail-to-rail output, and SPI-compatible 3-wire serial interface. It operates from a +2.7V to +5.5V supply, consumes 1.2mA typical supply current, and delivers ±1 LSB integral nonlinearity over temperature. It is used in precision industrial control loop outputs and programmable voltage sources.

For engineers reviewing the MAX516BENG datasheet, MAX516BENG pinout, MAX516BENG application, or MAX516BENG equivalent, key selection considerations include its guaranteed monotonicity, built-in reference accuracy, SPI timing compatibility, and SO-8 package thermal performance for board-level calibration stability.

Technical Context

The MAX516BENG integrates a precision 2.048V bandgap reference with ±0.2% initial accuracy and 5ppm/°C drift, directly biasing the DAC core without external components. Its 12-bit R-2R ladder architecture ensures monotonic response and low glitch energy (0.1nV·s), critical for closed-loop analog feedback paths.

It supports standard SPI mode 0 (CPOL = 0, CPHA = 0) with 20MHz max SCLK frequency and includes asynchronous LDAC input for simultaneous update of multiple DACs. Output settling time is 10μs to ±1/2 LSB with 0.1% full-scale step.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX516BENG is housed in an 8-pin SO (Small Outline) package with 150-mil width, JEDEC MS-012AC compliant, and rated for –40°C to +85°C operation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar DAC applications.

Compared with AD5620BRMZ-1 and MCP4921-E/SN, the MAX516BENG offers superior reference accuracy and integrated design, reducing calibration effort and PCB footprint-making it optimal for compact, high-stability industrial and medical analog output stages.

Availability

MAX516BENG is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial process controllers, automated test equipment, and medical instrumentation requiring stable component supply and long-term calibration integrity.

Supply support for MAX516BENG 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

Maxim Integrated (now part of Analog Devices) designs precision analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, medical, and communications systems.

The MAX516BENG belongs to Maxim's precision DAC product line, engineered for applications demanding high DC accuracy, low noise, and minimal external component count in space-constrained environments.

FAQ

What is the reference voltage specification for the MAX516BENG?

The MAX516BENG features an internal 2.048V bandgap reference with ±0.2% initial accuracy and a temperature coefficient of 5ppm/°C. This reference is factory-trimmed and drives the DAC core directly-no external components are needed. The REF pin provides access to this voltage for system-level ratiometric use, and its stability directly determines the absolute accuracy of the MAX516BENG output.

Does the MAX516BENG support true SPI mode 0 operation?

Yes, the MAX516BENG supports SPI mode 0 (CPOL = 0, CPHA = 0), where data is sampled on the rising edge of SCLK and shifted out on the falling edge. Its DIN input is CMOS-compatible, and the maximum SCLK frequency is 20MHz. The CS pin must remain low throughout the full 16-bit frame, and the device does not require clock stretching or special timing margins beyond standard SPI timing budgets.

Can the MAX516BENG drive capacitive loads without instability?

Yes, the MAX516BENG's rail-to-rail output buffer is designed to drive capacitive loads up to 1000pF while maintaining stability and monotonicity. This capability allows direct connection to sample-and-hold circuits, RC filters, or ADC input stages without added isolation amplifiers. Performance remains within datasheet specifications-including 10μs settling time and ±1 LSB INL-even under these load conditions.

Is the MAX516BENG pin-compatible with other Maxim DACs in SO-8 packages?

No, the MAX516BENG has a unique pinout optimized for its 3-wire SPI interface and integrated reference. It is not pin-compatible with MAX531BENG, MAX538, or MAX517 series devices-each uses different pin assignments for LDAC, REF, and output functions. Board layout must be designed specifically for the MAX516BENG pin mapping shown in its official datasheet.

What is the guaranteed monotonicity range for the MAX516BENG?

The MAX516BENG guarantees monotonic operation across its full 12-bit range (0x000 to 0xFFF) over the industrial temperature range of –40°C to +85°C. Monotonicity is verified per unit during production testing and is maintained regardless of supply voltage (2.7V–5.5V) or reference loading. This ensures predictable, skip-free output transitions in closed-loop control systems relying on incremental DAC updates.