PIC12F1822 DAC Module

This small post shows how to start using PIC12F1822 DAC (Digital-to Analog Converter) module.
PIC12F1822 microcontroller has 1 DAC module. The DAC can be used to supply analog voltage on RA0 pin with 32 selectable output levels.

PIC12F1822 DAC Module
The input of the DAC can be connected to:

  • External VREF pins
  • VDD supply voltage
  • FVR (Fixed Voltage Reference)

DAC Block diagram is shown below:

With CCS PIC C compiler we can initialize the DAC module using the following command:
setup_dac(int8 mode);
Where mode can one of the following modes:
DAC_OFF  0                                            // DAC disabled
DAC_VSS_VDD                                      // Negative source is VSS and positive source is VDD
DAC_VSS_VREF                                    // Negative source is VSS and positive source is Vref+ pin
DAC_VSS_FVR                                      // Negative source is VSS and positive source is FVR (Fixed Voltage Reference)
The DAC output can be enabled using the following line which or’ed with above in setup_dac() using |.
DAC_OUTPUT                                       // Enable ADC output on RA0 pin.
Controlling the output of the DAC is also easy with CCS PIC C compiler and for that we have to use the following command:
dac_write(int8 value);
Where value should be a 5-bit number which varies between 0 and 31.
The DAC output voltage is determined by the following equation assuming that the DAC is enabled (DACEN bit is 1):

The DAC 32 levels are set with DACR[4:0] bits which is done using dac_write() command.
Assume that we’ve PIC12F1822 microcontroller with +5V power supply, the DAC is configured with VSS and VDD as negative and positive sources and the DAC output is enabled.
Minimum Vout voltage when DACR[4 : 0] = 0b00000 equals to 0V.
Maximum Vout voltage when DACR[4 : 0] = 0b11111 equals to 4.84V
Writing DACR[4 : 0] = 0b00000 is done using: dac_write(0);
And DACR[4 : 0] = 0b11111 is dac_write(31);

PIC12F1822 DAC Module Example:
This is a small example for the DAC module. Example circuit schematic is shown below.

Read more: PIC12F1822 DAC Module 

About The Author

Ibrar Ayyub

I am an experienced technical writer holding a Master's degree in computer science from BZU Multan, Pakistan University. With a background spanning various industries, particularly in home automation and engineering, I have honed my skills in crafting clear and concise content. Proficient in leveraging infographics and diagrams, I strive to simplify complex concepts for readers. My strength lies in thorough research and presenting information in a structured and logical format.

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