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  1.   1
  2.   Abstract
  3.   Trademarks
  4. 1Introduction
  5. 2Detailed Description
    1. 2.1 Data Converter Architecture Overview
      1. 2.1.1 String DAC
      2. 2.1.2 R-2R DAC
      3. 2.1.3 Multiplying DAC
    2. 2.2 Data Converter Parameters
      1. 2.2.1 Resolution
      2. 2.2.2 Reference Type
      3. 2.2.3 Number of Channels
      4. 2.2.4 Interface Types
      5. 2.2.5 Output Types
      6. 2.2.6 Integral Nonlinearity and Differential Nonlinearity
      7. 2.2.7 Settling Time and Update Time
      8. 2.2.8 Physical Properties
      9. 2.2.9 Notable Features
  6. 3Summary
    1. 3.1 Example Devices
    2. 3.2 Other Resources
  7. 4References

2.1.3 Multiplying DAC

The Multiplying DAC (MDAC) shares a similar structure to R-2R DAC. The reference voltage and output swap positions to form a current-switching ladder architecture. Due to this architecture, the voltage reference input impedance is constant, allowing the reference to be dynamic. The MDAC essentially multiplies the reference voltage by the input code. The MDAC can utilize a reference voltage higher than the supply voltage, with the full-scale output determined by the reference voltage rather than the supply voltage. The resistor architecture uses current steering which creates faster settling times and low total harmonic distortion (THD) and noise, which are desirable traits for applications such as waveform generation.

A transimpedance amplifier (TIA) is necessary to convert the current output of the MDAC to a voltage. As the output impedance of the MDAC changes depending on the input code, a TIA with low offset voltage is necessary to avoid introducing linearity errors at the output. The final output voltage is inverted compared to the reference voltage input.

MDACs are often used in test and measurement applications but can also be implemented for other purposes such as generating AC waveforms or attenuation and mixing signals. MDACs are also used to generate a waveform from a DC input voltage. Figure 2-4 shows a simple diagram of the MDAC architecture.

MDAC Architecture Figure 2-4 MDAC Architecture