7.2. Principles of DAC Operation

Try these first

1. 1.

   What does a DAC do?

   Hint

   Think about how digital music plays on speakers.

2. 2.

   What is meant by resolution in DACs?

   Hint

   Relate it to how many steps or levels you can have when adjusting the output.

3. 3.

   What is the primary function of a DAC?

   • To convert analog to digital
   • To convert digital to analog
   • To store digital data

   Hint

   Reflect on the applications of DACs in everyday devices.

4. 4.

   The higher the resolution of a DAC, the fewer output levels it can provide. (True/False)

   Hint

   Think about how bits increase output possibilities.

5. 5.

   A 12-bit DAC has a reference voltage of 2.5V. Calculate the maximum output voltage and the smallest change in output voltage (LSB).

   Hint

   Use the formulas for maximum voltage and LSB.

6. 6.

   Discuss how the choice of reference voltage impacts the output of a DAC in a sound playback system.

   Hint

   Think about the effects on sound intensity.