SparkFun
Qwiic MCP4725 12-Bit DAC Breakout
· MPN: BOB-31206
Generate a real analogue output from your microcontroller instead of relying on PWM. This MCP4725 breakout is a 12-bit Digital-to-Analogue Converter (DAC) th...
Generate a real analogue output from your microcontroller instead of relying on PWM. This MCP4725 breakout is a 12-bit Digital-to-Analogue Converter (DAC) that outputs precise voltage levels over an I2C/Qwiic connection.
It is useful for projects that need smoother control signals, such as sound generation, custom musical instruments, sensitive analogue actuators, calibration points or voltage-reference style outputs. The onboard EEPROM can store a voltage setting so the DAC outputs that level again on power-up.
Integration is straightforward with the Qwiic Connect System: two Qwiic connectors provide solderless I2C and power, while 0.1-inch-spaced plated-through-hole pins break out VCC, GND, SDA, SCL and the MCP4725 signal OUT pin for breadboards or custom wiring.
Documentation available for this board includes the schematic, KiCad files, hookup guide, MCP4725 datasheet, Arduino Library, Python Package, Qwiic info and the GitHub hardware repository.
Features:
- Smooth Signal Generation: Deliver clean voltage signals for sound generation, custom musical instruments, or sensitive analog actuators.
- Standard Resolution: The 12-bit resolution provides 4,096 precise voltage steps between GND and VCC (2.7V to 5.5V), giving you precise control over your hardware.
- Onboard Memory: Features internal non-volatile memory (EEPROM) that allows you to store a specific voltage setting.
- Power-up output: Upon power-up, the DAC immediately outputs the stored level.
- Set-and-forget use: Effective for set-and-forget calibration or reliable voltage-reference applications.
- Qwiic Connect System: Pair of Qwiic connectors for instant, solderless I2C communication and power delivery.
- Breadboard and custom layout support: Standard 0.1-inch-spaced plated-through-hole (PTH) pins are broken out for VCC, GND, SDA, SCL, and the MCP4725's Signal OUT pin.
- 12-bit resolution
- I2C Interface (Standard, Fast, and High-Speed supported)
- Small package
- Internal EEPROM to store settings
- Configurable I2C Bus
- 2x Qwiic Connectors
Specifications:
- Resolution: 12-bit resolution
- Interface: I2C Interface (Standard, Fast, and High-Speed supported)
- I2C addresses: 2 Hardware/Jumper Controlled I2C Addresses
- Default address: 0x60
- Alternate address: 0x61
- Package: Small package
- Supply: 2.7V to 5.5V supply
- Memory: Internal EEPROM to store settings
- I2C bus: Configurable I2C Bus
- Connectors: 2x Qwiic Connectors
A compact DAC breakout for adding smooth analogue output to Qwiic-compatible Arduino, Python and other I2C-based projects.
Jargon buster
Plain-language definitions for the technical terms used above.
- 12-bit resolution
- 12-bit resolution means the sensor’s measurement is divided into 4096 possible digital values. Higher resolution can make small changes in motion or tilt easier to detect, as long as the sensor range and noise are suitable for the project.
- breakout
- A breakout is a small circuit board that makes a tiny or hard-to-solder component easier to connect to with standard pins. It matters because this OLED module can be wired into a microcontroller project without needing to solder directly to the display’s fine contacts.
- DAC
- A digital-to-analogue converter turns numbers from the microcontroller into a real analogue voltage. It matters if you want to generate simple waveforms, audio-style signals, or variable control voltages rather than just on/off outputs.
- EEPROM
- A type of non-volatile memory that keeps stored data even when power is turned off. In a sensor module, it can be used to store settings or calibration data so they do not need to be re-entered every time.
- I2C
- I2C is a two-wire communication bus used by many sensors and small modules. It matters because several I2C devices can share the same two wires, but each device needs a compatible address and your controller must support I2C.
- microcontroller
- A microcontroller is a small computer on a chip that runs your program and controls connected inputs and outputs. For this product, it is the part that reads buttons and sensors, drives the display and speaker, and communicates over Bluetooth.
- PTH
- Plated through-hole means the pin holes are metal-lined so solder connects the pad on both sides of the board. It is useful for connectors and headers that need a strong mechanical and electrical connection.
- PWM
- Pulse Width Modulation is a way for a digital pin to simulate variable output power by switching on and off very quickly. It matters for controlling things like LED brightness, motor speed, or servo-style signals from a microcontroller pin.
- Qwiic
- Qwiic is a plug-in connector system for I2C devices that uses small 4-pin cables, so you can connect compatible sensors without soldering. It matters because your controller or adapter also needs Qwiic, or you will need a cable or breakout to wire it up.
MCP4725 Qwiic DAC Breakout Schematic
Schematic · 131.1 KB · Click any page to view full size
MCP4725 Datasheet
Datasheet · 1.5 MB · Click any page to view full size
Supplier page — sparkfun.com
Supplier Description · 1.2 MB · Click any page to view full size
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