Microchip MCP4728A1T-E/UN: A 12-Bit Quad DAC with I²C Interface and On-Board EEPROM

In the realm of digital-to-analog conversion, the Microchip MCP4728A1T-E/UN stands out as a highly integrated and versatile solution. This device is a 12-bit, quad-channel voltage-output Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) that combines high performance with exceptional ease of use, making it an ideal choice for a wide array of applications, from industrial instrumentation and process control to audio equipment and programmable voltage sources.

A key feature of this DAC is its on-board non-volatile EEPROM memory. This allows each of the four DAC channels to store its own configuration settings—including output voltage value and power-down mode—directly on the chip. Upon power-up, the device automatically reloads these saved settings, enabling the system to resume operation immediately without requiring intervention from a host microcontroller. This feature is invaluable for applications that require a known, predefined state at startup.

Communication is handled via a fast I²C compatible serial interface, supporting clock speeds of up to 3.4 MHz. This high-speed two-wire interface minimizes the number of GPIO pins required on the host controller, simplifying board layout and reducing system cost. The MCP4728 also features a multi-capability address pin, allowing users to connect up to two of these devices on the same I²C bus, for a total of eight independent DAC channels.

The converter architecture of the MCP4728 ensures a highly accurate and stable analog output. With 12-bit resolution, it provides fine control over the output voltage. The device incorporates an internal precision voltage reference (2.048 V or 4.096 V, selectable per channel), which enhances overall accuracy and eliminates the need for an external reference component, further saving board space and bill-of-materials costs. Each channel also has its own dedicated output amplifier, providing a low-impedance output drive capability.

Furthermore, the DAC includes per-channel power-down functionality, which can be programmed to enter one of several high-impedance output states. This is crucial for battery-powered or energy-sensitive applications where minimizing power consumption is a top priority.

ICGOODFIND: The Microchip MCP4728A1T-E/UN is a superior choice for designers seeking a compact, feature-rich, multi-channel DAC. Its combination of integrated EEPROM, a high-speed I²C interface, and an internal voltage reference delivers a powerful blend of performance, design flexibility, and system reliability, streamlining development and enhancing the end product.

Keywords: 12-Bit Quad DAC, I²C Interface, On-Board EEPROM, Internal Voltage Reference, Multi-Channel Output.