Date: 14/07/2009

DAC with EEPROM to enable its configuration automatically on startup

The new MCP4728 12-bit Quad Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) from Microchip include non-volatile EEPROM to load the DAC's configuration automatically on start up. With this capability, plus its four-channel architecture and internal voltage reference is targeted at portable battery operated applications.

Non-volatile EEPROM provides designers the flexibility to program MCP4728 DAC input codes, configuration bits and I2C address bits to the EEPROM using I2C serial-interface commands. The result is that this data is held during power-off time, making the MCP4728 DAC's configuration and outputs available immediately after power-up and each channel in the MCP4728 DAC can be individually shut down, thereby reducing power consumption to as low as 0.04 microamperes, which helps to extend battery life.

"Microchip has utilized its expertise in both non-volatile memory and mixed-signal technology to provide added flexibility to customers with the MCP4728 DAC," said Bryan Liddiard, vice president of marketing with Microchip's Analog & Interface Products Division.

"Being the first 12-bit Quad DAC in the industry to integrate non-volatile EEPROM, the MCP4728 is expected to help designers meet or exceed cost and size requirements, while providing the resolution and low power consumption that today's battery-powered and power-constrained electronic devices require," continued Jefferay Lawton, product marketing engineer with Microchip's Analog and Interface Products Division.

The broad range of applications of MCP4728 DAC include:

1. Consumer (personal media players, digital cameras and GPS devices).
2. Medical (portable glucose meters, blood pressure and heart-rate monitors).
3. Industrial (handheld instruments, motor-control applications, and temperature
and light control).
4. Appliance (washing machines and espresso machines).
5. Automotive (LED lamps and alarm/security systems) markets.
6. The DAC complements Microchip's PIC18F87J93 8-bit microcontrollers for
7. Medical and metering applications, also announced today.


Package: 10-pin MSOP.
Availability: Now in samples
Price: Each US$1.36 for 10K pieces

For further information visit http://www.microchip.com/mcp4728