News and New Products

Analog-output module extends embedded I/O

By Warren Webb, Technical Editor -- EDN, 3/11/2008

Targeting applications such as process control, data monitoring and collection, security and medical-equipment design, VersaLogic’s new VCM-DAS-3 PC/104 analog-output module is a convenient and cost-effective method for adding I/O functions in single-board-embedded-computing applications. The new PC/104 module features 16 channels of 12-bit analog output and 24 digital-I/O lines. In addition, the VCM-DAS-3 operates in an extended-temperature range of −40 to +85°C and fully complies with ROHS (restriction-of-hazardous-substances) directives.

Enhanced features include independently programmable output ranges, software calibration, the ability to reset to zero scale on power-up, and readback of DAC and span codes for simplified setup. Legacy features include 8-bit-ISA (industry-standard-architecture)-bus compatibility, jumper-configurable output ranges in groups of eight, and the ability to reset to midscale on power-up. The module supports both unipolar and bipolar operations. Prices for the DAS-3 start at approximately $400 (OEM quantities).