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Maxim - Sink/Source Current DAC Simplifies Power-Supply Margin Testing

9th July 2009

ES Admin

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Datasheet

Maxim has introduced the DS4432 low-cost, 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.

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 ideal 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 50microamps and 200microamps 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 degrees Celsius to +85 degrees Celsius extended industrial temperature range, and is available in a tiny 8-pin microSOP.