The MCP48XX family has an internal voltage reference, while the MCP49XX family accepts an external voltage reference.

Single- and dual-output, 8-/10-bit digital-to-analog converters (DACs) feature internal and external voltage-reference options.

CHANDLER, Ariz., May 3, 2010 [NASDAQ:  MCHP] — Microchip Technology, a leading provider of microcontroller and analog semiconductors, today announced the MCP4801/2, MCP4811/2 (MCP48XX) and MCP4901/2, MCP4911/2 (MCP49XX) Digital-to-Analog Converters (DACs). 

The new products expand the Company’s portfolio of DACs with single- and dual-channel 8- and 10-bit devices featuring an SPI communication interface, as well as internal and external voltage-reference options. 

The MCP48XX family has an internal voltage reference, while the MCP49XX family accepts an external voltage reference. These DACs are appropriate for applications in the consumer (e.g., home appliances, LCD displays, computer peripherals); industrial (e.g., control systems, motor control, metering); and medical markets (e.g., ultrasound, ECG, sensor calibration), among others.

Because the MCP48XX and MCP49XX DACs offer both 8- and 10-bit resolution, designers can select the resolution needed for different applications. 

Additionally, having an integrated voltage reference reduces cost and space, while the external pin provides further design flexibility.   

Availability in small packages also saves space and makes the DACs easy to use.

“The expansion of our DAC portfolio brings greater competitive solutions to the market,” said Bryan J. Liddiard, vice president of marketing with Microchip’s Analog and Interface Products Division. “The availability of both 8- and 10-bit devices allows for the most cost-effective design.”

“Designers often request more flexibility, with regard to DAC resolution in their applications,” said Jefferay Lawton, product marketing manager, Analog and Interface Products Division.  “With the MCP48XX and MCP49XX families, designers can customize the resolution, number of outputs and voltage reference for each application.”

Packaging, Pricing & Availability

The following table summarizes the MCP48XX and MCP49XX packaging and pricing options.  Samples and volume-production quantities can be ordered today, at http://www.microchip.com/get/JFFV and http://www.microchip.com/get/9LCU, respectively.  

For further information, contact any Microchip sales representative or authorized worldwide distributor, or visit Microchip’s Web site at http://www.microchip.com/get/S7D1.