generating analog voltage using microcontroller

[aruna1]

Hi

I need to generate an analog voltage using a microcontroller (16F877A)

I have two options -

1.)Use R-2R ladder and make a 10bit DAC

2.)generate 1kHz PWM signal-->send it through a 6 pole lowpass filter-->get analog voltage relevant to duty cycle.


Since I couldn't find any DAC ics, I'm stuck with above two options (they are the only methods I know of, are there any other methods?)

I have to order some DAC ICs but it will take about 3 weeks to reach me, so untill then I have to use some method to generate voltage?

What method do you think most reliable? that is more accurate and steady?

Thank you

 

[leo_o2]

For second method, L C filter can be used for stable voltage.

 

[aruna1]

For second method, L C filter can be used for stable voltage.

you mean LC filter instead of active filter?

 

[kak111]

Here is two simple examples.....................




**broken link removed**

KAK

 

[aruna1]

Here is two simple examples.....................





**broken link removed**

KAK

ya I know the method, infact it is what i stated as my second option.

 

[muthukumar_ece2004]

You don't need to generate PWM signal. Just generate a square signal of frequency 1KHz, then filter-out using a 4th order active filter to get a faithful sine wave. We are doing this form of simple analog voltage generator.

 

[leo_o2]

Yes. It provides better efficiency if the analog signal need big driving capability.

 

[aruna1]

You don't need to generate PWM signal. Just generate a square signal of frequency 1KHz, then filter-out using a 4th order active filter to get a faithful sine wave. We are doing this form of simple analog voltage generator.

how could a sine wave help in my requirement? I think you misunderstood what I was saying.

 

[JayantD]

Aruna,

If your range is 0 to 5V, you can use a DAC like MCP4912 (Microchip) which can be written through SPI. If you need higher voltage at the output, the DAC output can be amplified by a non inverting amplifier.

In case you dont want to use a DAC, you can generate a PWM, and connect a RC low pass filter to get a linear output voltage. ensure the RC time constant is greater than your PWM cycle time, otherwise you may end up getting a triangular wave.

Using a DAC will give you more accuracy. Hope this helps.

Regards,
JayantD

 

[aruna1]

I ordered a sample DAC from TI and it will arrive next week. after all I will not need PWM
thank you all