Microchip introduces the MCP47/48FxBx8 series of 8-channel 12-bit digital-to-analog converters

     In today's portable and handheld industrial, communications, consumer, and medical systems, configuring devices during power-up inevitably leads to significant processor overhead, otherwise it would be difficult to achieve multichannel system control or signal output using digital-to-analog converters (Dacs). To address this challenge, Microchip Technology announced the MCP47/48FxBx8 series of 8-channel 12-bit digital-to-analog converters. As the first of its kind to include a non-volatile memory and an integrated reference voltage source (Vref), the new solution can be pre-configured for safe and efficient power-on without relying on the system processor.

     Bryan J. Liddiard, vice president of Mixed Signal and Linear Products at Microchip, said, "The trend in handheld devices and other portable systems is to provide more functionality in smaller, simpler designs. "Our first digital-to-analog converter products help achieve this goal by reducing processor overhead during power-up and providing the channel density, low power consumption and integrated features required for today's compact systems to operate for extended periods of time with smaller, lighter batteries."

     Unlike digital-to-analog converters that do not integrate non-volatile memory, MCP47/48FxBx8 digital-to-analog converters can store customized configuration data even when powered off. When powered on, all eight channels are configured to a predefined state without imposing overhead on the system processor. The integration of a reference voltage source into a digital-to-analog converter reduces the overall size and complexity of the system while providing the necessary controls to meet the critical timing requirements for safely driving all power outputs. In addition, SPI and I2C serial interfaces are available to provide designers with maximum flexibility in device communication.

     With an operating voltage range of 1.8V to 5.5V, the low minimum operating voltage combined with high power efficiency improves thermal performance and reliability. The new DTO products also offer power-on/power-off reset protection and the industry's fastest 5-microsecond setup time, and can operate in the larger temperature range (-40 ° C to +125 ° C) required by industrial and automotive applications.