Voltage reference

Dallas Semiconductor has introduced the DS4303, claimed to be the world's first sample-and-infinite-hold voltage reference.

It replaces a standard voltage reference plus discrete resistor or potentiometer in embedded systems requiring voltage adjustment during factory calibration.

Because it is electrically programmable, it can be used to automate the calibration process, which contributes to improved quality, increased assembly throughput, and lower production costs.

The device is intended for use in closed-loop calibration systems. It samples a user-applied input voltage and then 'locks in' this voltage at its output which, in turn, sets the parameter being calibrated.

The system output must then be measured for accuracy and, if necessary, the input voltage can be adjusted and resampled to improve system output accuracy.

This can be repeated as many times as necessary. The output can be set to within 300 mV of the supply rails with ±1 mV accuracy when used in a closed-loop calibration system.

Once the desired voltage has been locked into the device, the digitised value is permanently stored in onboard non-volatile memory that will retain the data even when powered down.

The DS4303 has a 2.4 to 3.6 V supply range and a -40 to +85°C operating temperature range.