Extremely low-power DACs prolong battery life in portable applications and circuits where power efficiencies are of concern

While the MAX5214/MAX5216 single-channel DACs already have extremely low power consumption, programmability adds flexibility and efficiency to power usage. Power consumption can be reduced further by writing the power-down sequence into the device registers. This makes the devices applicable for systems with limited power budgets such as portable glucose meters. In these cases, the devices can be powered-on to perform the required tasks with 80µA of current consumption in operation mode and then powered down to reduce the electrical current consumption to 0.4µA. Additionally, on power-up, the MAX5214/MAX5216 reset the DAC output to zero, providing extra safety for applications that drive valves or other transducers that need to be off on power-up.



These DACs are the best in their class for accuracy and precision. The MAX5214 and MAX5216 provide ±0.25 LSB and ±1 LSB of integral nonlinearity (INL), respectively, over their wide resolution spectrum. They are ideal for high-performance systems executing repetitive tasks in numerous counts that demand the same high precision and accuracy each time. Motor controllers in robotic applications are a typical example.



The MAX5214/MAX5216 integrate an internal buffer, which reduces both the number of external components needed in the system design and the total space required on the PCB. Buffer integration also simplifies design in.



The MAX5214/MAX5216 operate efficiently in industrial environments from -40°C to +105°C. Both devices are offered in a compact 8-pin µMAX® package. Pricing starts at $3.89 (1000-up, FOB USA). EV kits and technical documents are available on the Maxim website to help systems designers take advantage of the benefits of these new product offerings.