Part A
AD5542AARUZ
Analog Devices Inc.
- Lifecycle
- Active
- Stock
- 7554 Stückzahl
- Series
- Data Acquisition von Digital to Analog Converters (DAC)
Replacement verdict
Not a drop-in replacement
The AD5544ARSZ and AD5542AARUZ are not drop-in replacements for each other. The AD5544ARSZ is a quad-channel 16-bit current-output DAC in a 28-lead SSOP, while the AD5542AARUZ is a single-channel 16-bit voltage-output DAC in a 16-lead TSSOP. They differ in channel count, output type, package footprint, and reference architecture, requiring complete circuit redesign and board layout changes for substitution.
Different channel count
Different output type
Different footprint
Different reference architecture
Parts at a glance
Part B
AD5544ARSZ
Analog Devices Inc.
- Lifecycle
- Active
- Stock
- 5520 Stückzahl
- Package
- SSOP-28
- Series
- Data Acquisition von Digital to Analog Converters (DAC)
Key differences
Rows are prioritized by design impact. Highlighted values require attention during substitution.
Key electrical and mechanical differences between the two devices
| Parameter | AD5544ARSZ | AD5542AARUZ | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number of DAC Channels | 4 | 1 | Determines how many independent analog outputs are available; a quad DAC cannot be directly replaced by a single-channel DAC without redesigning the output stage. |
| Resolution | 16 bits | 16 bits | Both provide 16-bit resolution, so the achievable output granularity and precision are equivalent. |
| DAC Architecture | Current-output R-2R | Voltage-output R-2R | Current-output DACs require an external I/V converter, while voltage-output DACs provide a buffered output directly, affecting the external circuitry needed. |
| Output Type | Unbuffered current | Buffered voltage | A buffered voltage output can drive loads directly, whereas an unbuffered current output needs an external op-amp, changing board complexity and BOM. |
| Interface Type | SPI | SPI | Both use a serial SPI interface, so the digital communication protocol is compatible. |
| Supply Voltage | 2.7 V to 5.5 V | 2.7 V to 5.5 V | Identical supply range means both can operate from the same system rails without level shifting. |
| Package / Case | 20-Lead SSOP | 16-Lead TSSOP | Different footprints and pin counts prevent drop-in replacement on an existing PCB layout. |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40°C to +85°C | -40°C to +85°C | Matching temperature ranges ensure both parts are suitable for the same industrial environments. |
| Reference Input | External | External | Both require an external voltage reference, so reference design considerations are similar. |
| INL (Integral Nonlinearity) | ±1 LSB | ±1 LSB | Equivalent linearity performance means both meet similar accuracy requirements for precision applications. |
Need help validating a replacement?
Send your BOM and application constraints for technical and sourcing review.
Full specification comparison
Use manufacturer datasheets as the final authority.
| Specification | AD5542AARUZ | AD5544ARSZ |
|---|---|---|
| Part Status | Active | Active |
| Base Product Number | AD5542 | - |
| Number of Bits | 16 | 16 |
| Number of D / A Converters | 1 | - |
| Settling Time | 1µs (Typ) | 900ns (Typ) |
| Output Type | Voltage - Unbuffered | Current - Unbuffered |
| Differential Output | No | No |
| Data Interface | SPI, DSP | SPI |
| Reference Type | External | External |
| Voltage - Supply, Analog | 2.7V ~ 5.5V | 2.7V ~ 5.5V |
| Voltage - Supply, Digital | 2.7V ~ 5.5V | 2.7V ~ 5.5V |
| INL / DNL (LSB) | ±0.5, ±0.5 | - |
| Architecture | R-2R | R-2R |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C ~ 85°C | -40°C ~ 125°C |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount | - |
| Packaging | Tube | - |
| Number of D/A Converters | - | 4 |
| INL / DNL(LSB) | - | ±2 (Max), ±1.5 (Max) |
Frequently asked questions
What are the primary differences between the AD5544ARSZ and the AD5542AARUZ?
The AD5544ARSZ is a quad, 16-bit, current-output digital-to-analog converter (DAC) in a 28-lead SSOP package, while the AD5542AARUZ is a single, 16-bit, voltage-output DAC in a 16-lead TSSOP package. The AD5544ARSZ provides four independent current outputs, whereas the AD5542AARUZ integrates an on-chip bipolar output amplifier and precision reference for voltage output.
Are the AD5544ARSZ and AD5542AARUZ pin-compatible or package-compatible?
No. The AD5544ARSZ uses a 28-lead SSOP (RS-28) package, and the AD5542AARUZ uses a 16-lead TSSOP (RU-16) package. They have different pin counts, pin functions, and PCB land patterns, so they are not drop-in replacements for each other.
Can the AD5544ARSZ and AD5542AARUZ operate from the same supply voltage?
Both devices support a 2.7 V to 5.5 V single-supply range for their digital and analog sections, but the AD5544ARSZ requires an external reference and output amplifier for voltage-mode operation, while the AD5542AARUZ includes an integrated output amplifier and operates from a single 2.7 V to 5.5 V supply with an external reference.
What is the resolution and DAC architecture of each device?
Both the AD5544ARSZ and AD5542AARUZ are 16-bit DACs. The AD5544ARSZ uses a current-steering R-2R architecture with four independent DAC channels. The AD5542AARUZ uses a segmented R-2R architecture with a single voltage-output channel and an integrated bipolar output stage.
Which device is better suited for multi-channel applications?
The AD5544ARSZ is better suited for multi-channel applications because it integrates four independent 16-bit DACs in one package, reducing board space and component count. The AD5542AARUZ provides only one DAC channel per package.
Do both devices support SPI-compatible serial interfaces?
Yes. Both the AD5544ARSZ and AD5542AARUZ feature a 3-wire SPI-compatible serial interface. The AD5544ARSZ supports daisy-chain operation for multiple devices, while the AD5542AARUZ also includes a serial interface with a dedicated LDAC pin for simultaneous updating.
What are the typical applications for the AD5544ARSZ versus the AD5542AARUZ?
The AD5544ARSZ is typically used in multi-channel data acquisition systems, industrial process control, and automatic test equipment where multiple precision current-output DACs are required. The AD5542AARUZ is commonly used in single-channel precision voltage-output applications such as portable instrumentation, digital gain and offset adjustment, and closed-loop servo control.
Are the AD5544ARSZ and AD5542AARUZ interchangeable in existing designs?
No. They differ in channel count, output type (current vs. voltage), package footprint, and external component requirements. A direct substitution is not possible without redesigning the PCB, adjusting the reference and output circuitry, and validating the system performance against the respective datasheets.