TI intros 16-bit analog converter

DALLAS, USA: Continuing to push the limits of data converter performance, Texas Instruments Inc. (TI) recently introduced the industry's fastest 16-bit digital-to-analog converter (DAC).

The quad DAC34SH84 is 50-percent faster and uses 50-percent less power than the closest 16-bit DAC alternative, clocking in at 1.5 GSPS and consuming just 362 mW per channel, said a press release.

The DAC34SH84 provides an easy, pin-compatible upgrade from the 1.25-GSPS DAC34H84 for customers wanting to maximize speed in 3G, LTE, GSM and WiMAX wireless base stations and repeaters; microwave point-to-point radio; software defined radio; and waveform generation systems.

Key features and benefits

Increased bandwidth: 750-MSPS-per-DAC input rate supports up to 600-MHz complex bandwidth for fifth order linearization of 120 MHz — three times wider than the competition when running at maximum sample rates.

Frequency agility: 2x to 16x interpolation and two independent, 32-bit numerically controlled oscillators lower the interface rate and cost of FPGAs while providing flexibility in frequency planning.

RF sideband image suppression: On-chip calibration of complete RF transmit path suppresses sideband and local oscillator feed-through while driving IQ modulators, such as the new TRF3705.

Fastest 16-bit DACs available: The DAC34SH84 joins the DAC3484 family, which includes the industry's next-fastest 16-bit DACs: the quad, 1.25-GSPS DAC3484 and DAC34H84, and the dual, 1.25-GSPS DAC3482. In addition to speed, the family helps designers maximize the power efficiency of their designs, the release added.