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Electrical

DAC Output Voltage Calculator

Convert an unsigned digital code into the ideal voltage of a unipolar DAC.

Ideal component relationshipsUnits and assumptions explained below
Circuit workbench
Circuit workbench

Keep RMS, peak and DC values distinct.

See the method

Enter circuit values

Runs on your device

Your circuit result

Your result

Let’s calculate.

Use the Calculate button to see your result.

Review the method below for assumptions and conventions.

How to use this tool

  1. Enter resolution bits, digital code, reference voltage.
  2. Select Calculate to view the result.
  3. Check the method and assumptions below before using the result.

The method, explained

Vout = Vref × code / 2^N. The maximum code is 2^N−1.

A WORKED EXAMPLE

Using resolution bits = 12 bits, digital code = 2048, reference voltage = 3.3 V, the result is 1.65 V. Change these example inputs to match your task; use the method above to check each step.

Understanding your result

Uses a binary-weighted full-scale convention. Output amplifier headroom, settling and reference errors are not modeled.

What to keep in mind

Uses a binary-weighted full-scale convention. Output amplifier headroom, settling and reference errors are not modeled. Ideal-component calculation for study and estimation. It does not select safe wiring, protective devices or component ratings for an installation.

Common questions

How do I use this dac output voltage calculator?

Convert an unsigned digital code into the ideal voltage of a unipolar DAC. Enter resolution bits in bits, digital code, reference voltage in V. The starting example is editable; use values for the same system or project.

Which assumptions affect this result?

Uses a binary-weighted full-scale convention. Output amplifier headroom, settling and reference errors are not modeled.

Methodology maintained by ClarityKit. How these tools are built and checked.