Measuring the Linearity of Differential-Output, Current-Mode Digital-to-Analog Converters (DACs)

Measuring the linearity of digital-to-analog converters (DACs) is no trivial task. There are many potential sources of error, including thermal effects, ground loops, and instrument accuracy. Additionally, a complete linearity measurement of DACs with digital resolution in excess of 10 bits can be time-consuming with bench instruments. This application note explains how to perform these tests quickly and with minimal error.