What this dual 12-bit DAC brings to a BOM
The DAC122S085CIMM-NS is a 12-bit, dual-channel, voltage-buffered DAC from Texas Instruments in a 10-MSOP package. It uses a string DAC architecture, which guarantees monotonicity — you won't see missing codes as you sweep the output. Settling time is 6 µs typical, fast enough for audio-level control loops or updating a pair of analog outputs in a motor drive or sensor calibration circuit. The digital interface supports SPI, QSPI, Microwire, and DSP — so it talks to just about any microcontroller or FPGA without glue logic.
Key specs that matter for fit
Resolution is 12 bits, giving 4096 output steps. The DNL is ±0.2 LSB typical — well under 1 LSB, so every code is guaranteed to be present. INL is ±2.4 LSB, which is typical for a 12-bit string DAC. That means the output may deviate from the ideal line by up to about 0.06% of full scale — fine for many control and monitoring applications. Both analog and digital supplies run from a single 2.7V to 5.5V rail — no separate analog supply needed, which simplifies PCB power routing.
It comes in a 10-MSOP (3.00 mm width) package, surface-mount. The 0.50 mm pitch is hand-solderable with a fine tip and magnification — great for a weekend prototype or a low-volume production run. The supplier device package is listed as 10-VSSOP — essentially the same footprint as 10-MSOP, just a different TI designation. Always confirm the land pattern from the datasheet. It's shipped in Bulk, not tape-and-reel, so it's ideal for small quantities or bench work where you don't want to deal with a reel.
Lifecycle and compliance
Note that it is RoHS non-compliant. If your project requires RoHS, you'll need an exemption or a different part number (the lead-free version would be DAC122S085CIMM/NOPB).