The Alameda (MAXREFDES24#) reference design features a scalable solution for multi-channel analog output modules. The configurable 4-channel design generates all typical bipolar current and voltage output ranges up to 24mA/12V with less than ±0.1% typical total unadjusted error (TUE). Integrated detection of power and cable faults provides the user with the necessary diagnostics for robust industrial control applications.

A buffered MAX5134 four-channel, 16-bit digital-to-analog converter (DAC) generates the low voltage signals that drive the inputs of four MAX15500 signal conditioners (output drivers). Both devices communicate with the host over an isolated SPI bus and can be daisy chained together for designs requiring higher channel counts. A MAX6126 produces a precision voltage reference to the circuit for maximum performance over environmental conditions. The design also incorporates an isolated power supply circuit with a wide DC input range using a MAX17498B peak current-mode flyback controller.

The board is designed in a compact pluggable form factor for easy evaluation with a PC (using the MAXREFDES24EVSYS design accelerator kit) or for development using a LX9 or ZedBoard Xilinx based platform.

Applications:

• PLCs
• DCS
• Distributed I/Os
• Industrial control and automation