Abstract: Despite the popularity of digital devices, real-world signals are typically represented by analog
signals. Digital control systems process analog signals by using an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) to
convert analog signals to digital. Conversions back to analog signals are accomplished using a digital-toanalog
converter (DAC). Maxim offers a complete line of precision DACs from 8 to 16 bits. It is important
to find a DAC that meets the requirements of the application. A design engineer needs to look at
parameters such as linearity, resolution, speed, and accuracy when selecting a DAC.