National Semiconductor DAC161P997 16-bit DAC

National Semiconductor has introduced a 16-bit digital-to-analog converter (DAC) featuring a single-wire interface and 4 to 20 mA current loop drive that simplifies the design of smart transmitters used in industrial two-wire sensor systems.

The highly integrated DAC161P997 reduces component count and cost in factory and building automation control systems by enabling the use of a single isolation component to cross the isolation boundary.

For sensing and detecting applications where galvanic isolation is not required, the device interfaces directly to a microcontroller.

Its low power provides system designers with a balance of accuracy, ease of use, performance and system cost. It offers 16-bit accuracy with a minimal temperature coefficient of 29 ppm and long-term output current drift of 90 ppm, while consuming less than 190 uA.

The device’s loop drive interfaces to a highway addressable remote transducer (HART) modulator, allowing injection of FSK-modulated digital data into the 4 to 20 mA current loop.