Triple 10-bit video DAC in a legacy through-hole footprint
The ADV7121KN50 is a triple 10-bit video DAC from the ADV7121 series, built with a pipelined architecture for high-speed conversion in video signal chains. It drives three independent D/A converters with current-buffered output, making it a direct fit for RGB or YUV video generation in broadcast, test equipment, or legacy display systems. Housed in a 40-pin PDIP (0.600" body width), this through-hole package suits boards that avoid fine-pitch SMT or where manual rework is common.
Linearity and speed for video-grade conversion
INL and DNL are specified at ±2 LSB and ±1 LSB respectively — tight enough that a 10-bit ramp across the full scale stays monotonic and free of missing codes. For a 10-bit DAC driving a 75-ohm video load, this linearity keeps the gray-scale steps uniform without visible banding. The pipelined architecture allows the three DACs to update concurrently at video pixel rates. With an external reference, the output current is set by the reference voltage and the internal scaling resistors — no internal bandgap means the user controls the full-scale range to match the video level. Operating temperature is rated 0°C to 70°C, which covers commercial indoor equipment (test racks, video switchers, broadcast monitors) but not extended industrial or outdoor enclosures. The part is RoHS non-compliant — a consideration for EU or RoHS-mandated builds.