company blog about Maxim DS4303R Electronically Programmable Voltage Reference For Automated Factory Calibration

Maxim DS4303R Electronically Programmable Voltage Reference For Automated Factory Calibration

In the modern electronic manufacturing industry, precise voltage references are critical for ensuring product quality and performance consistency. Shenzhen Mingjiada Electronics Co., Ltd., a globally renowned authorised independent distributor of electronic components, has been supplying the Maxim DS4303R programmable voltage reference device. This non-volatile (NV), programmable voltage reference IC, with its exceptional precision and flexibility, is an ideal choice for automatic factory calibration equipment.

Product Overview Of DS4303R

The DS4303R is a non-volatile programmable voltage reference device housed in a compact SOT23-5 package, specifically designed for applications requiring high-precision voltage regulation. The core value of this voltage reference IC lies in its unique programmable capability, allowing the reference voltage to be set online during factory calibration/programming and enabling the stored voltage value to be retained indefinitely, even if the device is periodically powered off.

The DS4303R achieves an initial accuracy of an impressive ±0.03%, with a temperature coefficient of 62ppm/°C, maintaining stable performance across a wide temperature range from -40°C to +85°C. The output voltage can be finely adjusted within a ±1mV range, and the wide output voltage adjustment range can be set to below the power supply voltage by 300mV, providing significant design flexibility for various application scenarios. The device operates on a single supply voltage range of 2.4V to 3.6V, making it ideal for portable and low-power applications.

Key features Of DS4303R:

Precise electronic voltage adjustment: Enables fine-tuning within a ±1mV range

Non-volatile storage: Stores the set voltage value indefinitely, eliminating the risk of data loss during power outages

Wide adjustment range: Output voltage can be adjusted to be 300mV below the supply voltage

Low temperature coefficient: 62ppm/°C ensures stability under temperature changes

Output short-circuit protection: Enhances system reliability

Low cost and low power consumption: Balances performance and cost-effectiveness

Technical specifications Of DS4303R:

Output voltage: Adjustable (user-programmable)

Initial accuracy: 0.03%

Temperature coefficient: 62ppm/°C

Maximum series VREF input voltage: 3.3V

Maximum shunt current: 1mA

Operating temperature range: -40°C to +85°C

Accuracy: 5.5 mV/mA

These features make the DS4303R an ideal choice for automatic factory calibration systems, precision instruments, sensor interfaces, and other applications requiring high-precision voltage reference.

Operating Principle and Programming Mechanism of the DS4303R:

The DS4303R's innovative design concept sets it apart in the voltage reference device category. Unlike traditional fixed voltage references, the DS4303R allows users to flexibly set the reference voltage value according to actual requirements during the factory calibration stage, making it an ideal choice for automatic factory calibration systems. Understanding its operating principle is crucial for fully leveraging the device's performance.

The programming process for the DS4303R is extremely simple and intuitive. To set the desired reference voltage VOUT, simply apply the target voltage to the VIN pin and then trigger the adjustment pin (/ADJ) to lock VOUT to the set value. This process can be described in three steps:

Apply the desired output voltage value to the VIN pin

Activate the /ADJ pin (typically pulled low)

The device's internal circuitry automatically adjusts and locks the output voltage

The primary advantage of this programming mechanism lies in its non-volatile storage capability. Once the voltage value is set and locked, the information is permanently stored in the device's internal non-volatile memory. Even if the device is completely powered off or experiences intermittent power supply, the set voltage value remains indefinitely. This feature is particularly suitable for industrial applications requiring long-term stable operation.

From a circuit architecture perspective, the DS4303R integrates a precision voltage reference source, error amplifier, non-volatile storage unit, and control logic. The internal reference voltage source provides an initial stable reference. The error amplifier compares the input voltage with the internal reference and adjusts the output through a feedback network. The non-volatile storage unit stores the final calibration value, ensuring that the pre-set voltage is restored after each power-on.

The DS4303R's output drive capability reaches ±1mA, sufficient to drive the reference inputs of most ADCs or other precision circuits. The device also features output short-circuit protection, automatically limiting current when an output short-circuit occurs to prevent damage to internal circuits. This protection mechanism enhances system reliability, particularly suitable for various abnormal conditions that may arise in industrial environments.

In terms of power management, the DS4303R supports single-supply operation from 2.4V to 3.6V, with a static current of only 1.6mA, making it a low-power device. The wide power supply voltage range enables it to adapt to various power supply environments, from battery-powered devices to industrial power systems.

Application Of DS4303R:

Biase adjustment systems: The DS4303R provides precise bias voltages for analogue circuits such as amplifiers and comparators. In RF power amplifiers, precise bias voltages are critical for linearity and efficiency. The DS4303R allows the bias point to be fine-tuned according to the characteristics of each amplifier, optimising overall performance.

Zero offset adjustment circuit: In precision measurement systems, sensors and signal chains often exhibit minor offsets. The DS4303R provides an adjustable compensation voltage to eliminate system zero-point errors. This application is particularly common in devices such as electronic scales and pressure measurement systems.

Power amplifier applications: Audio and RF power amplifiers require strict stability at the operating point. The DS4303R's low temperature coefficient and long-term stability make it an ideal bias voltage source, capable of compensating for performance drift caused by temperature changes.

Power supply calibration systems: Switching power supplies and linear regulators require precise reference voltages to ensure accurate output voltages. The DS4303R's programmable features allow fine-tuning of the power supply output voltage during final testing to meet stringent technical specifications.

Pressure bridge circuits: Strain gauges and pressure sensors typically use a Wheatstone bridge configuration. The DS4303R not only provides excitation voltage but can also be used to compensate for bridge imbalance, improving measurement accuracy.

Threshold Setting Applications: In protection circuits, alarm systems, and data acquisition devices, the DS4303R provides precise trigger thresholds for comparators, ensuring reliable system operation under predetermined conditions.

Typical Operating Circuit Of DS4303R