Maxim Dual-Channel, Sink/Source Current DAC Simplifies Power-Supply Margin Testing
Maxim Integrated Products introduced the DS4432 dual-channel, sink/source current DAC. This I²C-controlled, 7-bit current DAC features two output channels that are explicitly designed for power-supply margin testing and adjustment. Each output channel provides fine control of a dc-dc power supply by sinking or sourcing current directly into the power supply’s feedback node.
According to the company, the DS4432 offers lower full-scale current and higher resolution than legacy sink/source current DACs, thus expanding the range of existing dc-dc power supplies that can be margined and adjusted with minimal redesign. The DS4432 is well suited for servers, routers, switches, video processing cards, and other dc-dc power-supply applications requiring system-level voltage control, calibration, and margin testing.
The DS4432 powers up in a neutral (zero-current) output condition to minimize system-startup overhead requirements. To maximize simplicity and versatility, the full-scale output currents are set between 50 and 200µA using one external resistor for each channel. Through the I²C bus, the output currents can then be set to any of the 127 linear sink or 127 linear source steps up to the maximum full-scale value.
The DS4432 is fully specified over the -40 to +85°C extended industrial temperature range, and is available in a tiny 8-pin microSOP. Pricing starts at $0.45 (10,000-up, FOB USA).
