The MAX5170/MAX5172 low-power, serial, voltage-output, 14-bit digital-to-analog converters (DACs) feature a precision output amplifier in a space-saving 16-pin QSOP package. The MAX5170 operates from a +5V single supply and the MAX5172 operates from a +3V single supply. Both devices draw only 280µA of supply current, which reduces to 1µA in shutdown. In addition, the programmable power-up reset feature allows for a user-selectable power-up output voltage of either 0 or midscale.

The 3-wire serial interface is compatible with SPI™, QSPI™, and MICROWIRE™ standards. An input register followed by a DAC register provides a double-buffered input, allowing the input and DAC registers to be updated independently or simultaneously with a 16-bit serial word. Additional features include software and hardware shutdown, shutdown lockout, a hardware clear pin, and a reference input capable of accepting DC and offset AC signals. These devices provide a programmable digital output pin for added functionality and a serial-data output pin for daisy-chaining. All logic inputs are TTL/CMOS-compatible and are internally buffered with Schmitt triggers to allow direct interfacing to optocouplers.

The MAX5170/MAX5172 incorporate a proprietary on-chip circuit that keeps the output voltage virtually "glitch free," limiting the glitches to a few millivolts during power-up. Both devices are available in 16-pin QSOP packages and are specified for the extended (-40°C to +85°C) temperature range. For 100% pin-compatible Dacs with internal reference, see the 13-bit MAX5130/MAX5131 and the 12-bit MAX5120/MAX5121 data sheets.