19. Digital-to-analog converter (DAC)

19.1 Introduction

The DAC module is a 12-bit, voltage output digital-to-analog converter. The DAC can be configured in 8- or 12-bit mode and may be used in conjunction with the DMA controller. In 12-bit mode, the data can be left- or right-aligned. The DAC features one single channel. An input reference pin, VREF+ (shared with others analog peripherals) is available for better resolution. An internal reference can also be set on the same input. Refer to voltage reference buffer (VREFBUF) section.

The DACx_OUT1 pin can be used as general purpose input/output (GPIO) when the DAC output is disconnected from output pad and connected to an on-chip peripheral. The DAC output buffer can be optionally enabled to obtain a high drive output current. A calibration can be applied on the DAC output channel. The DAC output channel supports a low power mode, the sample and hold mode.

19.2 DAC main features

The DAC main features are the following (see Figure 86: DAC block diagram )

Figure 86 shows the block diagram of a DAC channel and Table 112 gives the pin description.

19.3 DAC implementation

Table 111. DAC features

DAC featuresDAC
Dual channel-
Output bufferX
I/O connectionDAC_OUT1 to PA10
Maximum sampling time1 Msps
Autonomous mode-
VREF+ pinX

19.4 DAC functional description

19.4.1 DAC block diagram

Figure 86. DAC block diagram

Figure 86. DAC block diagram. The diagram shows the internal architecture of the DAC. On the left, a 32-bit APB bus is connected to 'Control registers and logic channel1'. This block also receives inputs from 'dac_ch1_trg1' through 'dac_ch1_trg15', 'dac_ch1_dma', 'dac_unr_it', 'dac_pclk', and 'dac_hold_ck'. It outputs 'TRIG', 'TSEL1 [3:0] bits', and 'DOR1'. 'DOR1' is a 12-bit input to the 'DAC converter'. Above the converter are 'Offset calibration' blocks with 'OTRIM1[4:0] bits' and 'MODE1 bits'. The 'DAC converter' output goes to a 'Buffer' block, which outputs 'DAC_OUT1'. Below the converter are 'Sample and hold registers' with 'TSAMPLE1', 'THOLD1', and 'TREFRESH1'. The 'Buffer' block also connects to 'dac_out1' and 'VREF+'. Power pins 'VDD' and 'Vss' are shown at the top and bottom respectively. The diagram is labeled MSV61355V6.
Figure 86. DAC block diagram. The diagram shows the internal architecture of the DAC. On the left, a 32-bit APB bus is connected to 'Control registers and logic channel1'. This block also receives inputs from 'dac_ch1_trg1' through 'dac_ch1_trg15', 'dac_ch1_dma', 'dac_unr_it', 'dac_pclk', and 'dac_hold_ck'. It outputs 'TRIG', 'TSEL1 [3:0] bits', and 'DOR1'. 'DOR1' is a 12-bit input to the 'DAC converter'. Above the converter are 'Offset calibration' blocks with 'OTRIM1[4:0] bits' and 'MODE1 bits'. The 'DAC converter' output goes to a 'Buffer' block, which outputs 'DAC_OUT1'. Below the converter are 'Sample and hold registers' with 'TSAMPLE1', 'THOLD1', and 'TREFRESH1'. The 'Buffer' block also connects to 'dac_out1' and 'VREF+'. Power pins 'VDD' and 'Vss' are shown at the top and bottom respectively. The diagram is labeled MSV61355V6.
  1. 1. MODE1 bits in the DAC_MCR control the output mode and allow switching between the normal mode in buffer/unbuffered configuration and the sample and hold mode.

19.4.2 DAC pins and internal signals

The DAC includes:

The DAC includes one output channel. The output channel can be connected to on-chip peripherals such as comparator, operational amplifier and ADC (if available). In this case, the DAC output channel can be disconnected from the DACx_OUT1 output pin and the corresponding GPIO can be used for another purpose.

The DAC output can be buffered or not. The sample and hold block and its associated registers can run in Stop mode using the LSI clock source (dac_hold_ck).

Table 112. DAC input/output pins

Pin nameSignal typeRemarks
VREF+Input, analog positive referenceThe higher/positive reference voltage for the DAC, \( V_{REF+} \leq V_{DDAmax} \) (refer to datasheet)
VDDInput, analog supplyAnalog power supply
VSSInput, analog supply groundGround for analog power supply
DACx_OUT1Analog output signalDACx channel1 analog output

Table 113. DAC internal input/output signals

Internal signal nameSignal typeDescription
dac_ch1_dmaBidirectionalDAC channel1 DMA request/acknowledge
dac_ch1_trgx (x = 1 to 15)InputsDAC channel1 trigger inputs/acknowledge
dac_unr_itOutputDAC underrun interrupt
dac_pclkInputDAC peripheral clock
dac_hold_ckInputDAC low-power clock used in sample and hold mode
dac_out1Analog outputDAC channel1 output for on-chip peripherals

Table 114. DAC interconnection

Signal nameSourceSource type
dac_hold_ckck_lsiLSI clock selected in the RCC
dac_ch1_trg1tim1_trgoInternal signal from on-chip timers TIM1_TGO_CKTIM

Table 114. DAC interconnection (continued)

Signal nameSourceSource type
dac_ch1_trg2tim2_trgoInternal signal from on-chip timers TIM2_TGO_CKTIM
dac_ch1_trg11lptim1_outInternal signal from on-chip timers LPTIM1_OUT
dac_ch1_trg12lptim2_outInternal signal from on-chip timers LPTIM2_OUT
dac_ch1_trg13lptim3_outInternal signal from on-chip timers LPTIM3_OUT
dac_ch1_trg14exti9External pin EXTI[9]

19.4.3 DAC channel enable

The DAC channel can be powered on by setting its corresponding EN1 bit in the DAC_CR register. The DAC channel is then enabled after a \( t_{WAKEUP} \) startup time.

Note: The EN1 bit enables the analog DAC channel1 only. The DAC channel1 digital interface is enabled even if the EN1 bit is reset.

19.4.4 DAC data format

Depending on the selected configuration mode, the data have to be written into the specified register as described below:

Depending on the loaded DAC_DHRyyxx register, the data written by the user is shifted and stored into the corresponding DAC_DHR1 (data holding registerx, which are internal non-memory-mapped registers). The DAC_DHR1 register is then loaded into the DAC_DOR1 register either automatically, by software trigger or by an external event trigger.

Figure 87. Data registers in single DAC channel mode

Diagram showing the data register layout for single DAC channel mode. It displays three rows of bit alignment within a 32-bit register (bits 31 to 0). The first row shows 8-bit right alignment, where data is stored in bits 7-0. The second row shows 12-bit left alignment, where data is stored in bits 15-4. The third row shows 12-bit right alignment, where data is stored in bits 11-0. The diagram uses shaded boxes to indicate the active data bits for each alignment mode.

The diagram illustrates the bit alignment for data registers in single DAC channel mode. It shows three rows of a 32-bit register (bits 31 to 0). The first row shows 8-bit right alignment, where data is stored in bits 7-0. The second row shows 12-bit left alignment, where data is stored in bits 15-4. The third row shows 12-bit right alignment, where data is stored in bits 11-0. The diagram uses shaded boxes to indicate the active data bits for each alignment mode.

Bit Position31241570Alignment Mode
8-bit right aligned■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■8-bit right aligned
12-bit left aligned■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■12-bit left aligned
12-bit right aligned■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■12-bit right aligned

ai14710b

Diagram showing the data register layout for single DAC channel mode. It displays three rows of bit alignment within a 32-bit register (bits 31 to 0). The first row shows 8-bit right alignment, where data is stored in bits 7-0. The second row shows 12-bit left alignment, where data is stored in bits 15-4. The third row shows 12-bit right alignment, where data is stored in bits 11-0. The diagram uses shaded boxes to indicate the active data bits for each alignment mode.

19.4.5 DAC conversion

The DAC_DOR1 cannot be written directly and any data transfer to the DAC channel1 must be performed by loading the DAC_DHR1 register (write operation to DAC_DHR8R1, DAC_DHR12L1, DAC_DHR12R1).

Data stored in the DAC_DHR1 register are automatically transferred to the DAC_DOR1 register after one dac_pclk clock cycle, if no hardware trigger is selected (TEN1 bit in DAC_CR register is reset). However, when a hardware trigger is selected (TEN1 bit in DAC_CR register is set) and a trigger occurs, the transfer is performed three dac_pclk clock cycles after the trigger signal.

When DAC_DOR1 is loaded with the DAC_DHR1 contents, the analog output voltage becomes available after a time \( t_{\text{SETTLING}} \) that depends on the power supply voltage and the analog output load.

Figure 88. Timing diagram for conversion with trigger disabled TEN = 0

Timing diagram for conversion with trigger disabled (TEN = 0). The diagram shows three signals over time: Bus clock (a square wave), DHR (Digital-to-Analog Register), and DOR (Output Register). The DHR signal is initially at 0x1AC. At the rising edge of the Bus clock, the DHR signal changes to 0x1AC. The DOR signal is initially at 0x1AC. At the rising edge of the Bus clock, the DOR signal changes to 0x1AC. The time interval between the DOR signal change and the output voltage becoming available on the DAC_OUT pin is labeled t_SETTLING. The output voltage is shown as a curve rising from 0x1AC to a higher value. The diagram is labeled MSv45319V2.
Timing diagram for conversion with trigger disabled (TEN = 0). The diagram shows three signals over time: Bus clock (a square wave), DHR (Digital-to-Analog Register), and DOR (Output Register). The DHR signal is initially at 0x1AC. At the rising edge of the Bus clock, the DHR signal changes to 0x1AC. The DOR signal is initially at 0x1AC. At the rising edge of the Bus clock, the DOR signal changes to 0x1AC. The time interval between the DOR signal change and the output voltage becoming available on the DAC_OUT pin is labeled t_SETTLING. The output voltage is shown as a curve rising from 0x1AC to a higher value. The diagram is labeled MSv45319V2.

19.4.6 DAC output voltage

Digital inputs are converted to output voltages on a linear conversion between 0 and \( V_{\text{REF+}} \) .

The analog output voltage on the DAC channel pin is determined by the following equation:

\[ \text{DACoutput} = V_{\text{REF}} \times \frac{\text{DOR}}{4096} \]

where all voltages are expressed in Volt.

19.4.7 DAC trigger selection

If the TEN1 control bit is set, the conversion can then be triggered by an external event (timer counter, external interrupt line). The TSEL1[3:0] control bits determine which out of 16 possible events triggers the conversion as shown in TSEL1[3:0] bits of the DAC_CR register. These events can be either the software trigger or hardware triggers. Refer to the interconnection table in Section 19.4.2 .

Each time a DAC interface detects a rising edge on the selected trigger source (refer to the table below), the last data stored into the DAC_DHR1 register are transferred into the DAC_DOR1 register. The DAC_DOR1 register is updated three dac_pclk cycles after the trigger occurs.

If the software trigger is selected, the conversion starts once the SWTRIG bit is set. SWTRIG is reset by hardware once the DAC_DOR1 register has been loaded with the DAC_DHR1 register contents.

Note: TSEL1[3:0] bit cannot be changed when the EN1 bit is set.

When software trigger is selected, the transfer from the DAC_DHR1 register to the DAC_DOR1 register takes only one dac_pclk clock cycle.

19.4.8 DMA requests

The DAC channel has a DMA capability. One DMA channel is used to service DAC channel DMA request.

When an external trigger (but not a software trigger) occurs while the DMAEN1 bit is set, the value of the DAC_DHR1 register is transferred into the DAC_DOR1 register when the transfer is complete, and a DMA request is generated.

As DAC_DHR1 to DAC_DOR1 data transfer occurred before the DMA request, the very first data has to be written to the DAC_DHR1 before the first trigger event occurs.

DMA underrun

The DAC DMA request is not queued so that if a second external trigger arrives before the acknowledgment for the first external trigger is received (first request), then no new request is issued and the DMA channel1 underrun flag DMAUDR1 in the DAC_SR register is set, reporting the error condition. The DAC channel1 continues to convert old data.

The software must clear the DMAUDR1 flag by writing 1, clear the DMAEN bit of the used DMA stream and re-initialize both DMA and DAC channel1 to restart the transfer correctly. The software must modify the DAC trigger conversion frequency or lighten the DMA workload to avoid a new DMA underrun. Finally, the DAC conversion can be resumed by enabling both DMA data transfer and conversion trigger.

For DAC channel1, an interrupt is also generated if its corresponding DMAUDRIE1 bit in the DAC_CR register is enabled.

19.4.9 Noise generation

In order to generate a variable-amplitude pseudonoise, an LFSR (linear feedback shift register) is available. DAC noise generation is selected by setting WAVE1[1:0] to 01. The preloaded value in LFSR is 0xAAA. This register is updated three dac_pclk clock cycles after each trigger event, following a specific calculation algorithm.

Figure 89. DAC LFSR register calculation algorithm

Diagram of the DAC LFSR register calculation algorithm. It shows a 12-bit shift register with cells numbered 11 down to 0. The output of cell 0 is fed back through an XOR gate to the input of cell 11. The XOR gate also takes inputs from cells 6, 4, 1, and 0, labeled as X^6, X^4, X^1, and X^0 respectively. The output of the XOR gate is also fed back through a NOR gate to the input of cell 11, labeled as X^12. The NOR gate takes a 12-bit input from the register. The diagram is labeled ai14713c.
Diagram of the DAC LFSR register calculation algorithm. It shows a 12-bit shift register with cells numbered 11 down to 0. The output of cell 0 is fed back through an XOR gate to the input of cell 11. The XOR gate also takes inputs from cells 6, 4, 1, and 0, labeled as X^6, X^4, X^1, and X^0 respectively. The output of the XOR gate is also fed back through a NOR gate to the input of cell 11, labeled as X^12. The NOR gate takes a 12-bit input from the register. The diagram is labeled ai14713c.

The LFSR value, that may be masked partially or totally by means of the MAMP1[3:0] bits in the DAC_CR register, is added up to the DAC_DHR1 contents without overflow and this value is then transferred into the DAC_DOR1 register.

If LFSR is 0x0000, a 1 is injected into it (antilock-up mechanism).

It is possible to reset LFSR wave generation by resetting the WAVE1[1:0] bits.

Figure 90. DAC conversion (SW trigger enabled) with LFSR wave generation

Timing diagram showing four signals over time: dac_pclk (a periodic clock), DHR (Digital Hold Register, showing a value of 0x00), DOR (Digital Output Register, showing values 0xAAA and 0xD55), and SWTRIG (Software Trigger, showing a pulse). The DOR signal changes its value when the SWTRIG signal pulses. The diagram is labeled MS45320V1.
Timing diagram showing four signals over time: dac_pclk (a periodic clock), DHR (Digital Hold Register, showing a value of 0x00), DOR (Digital Output Register, showing values 0xAAA and 0xD55), and SWTRIG (Software Trigger, showing a pulse). The DOR signal changes its value when the SWTRIG signal pulses. The diagram is labeled MS45320V1.

Note: The DAC trigger must be enabled for noise generation by setting the TEN1 bit in the DAC_CR register.

19.4.10 Triangle-wave generation

It is possible to add a small-amplitude triangular waveform on a DC or slowly varying signal. DAC triangle-wave generation is selected by setting WAVE1[1:0] to 10. The amplitude is configured through the MAMP1[3:0] bits in the DAC_CR register. An internal triangle counter is incremented three dac_pclk clock cycles after each trigger event. The value of this counter is then added to the DAC_DHR1 register without overflow and the sum is transferred into the DAC_DOR1 register. The triangle counter is incremented as long as it is less than the maximum amplitude defined by the MAMP1[3:0] bits. Once the configured amplitude is reached, the counter is decremented down to 0, then incremented again and so on.

It is possible to reset triangle wave generation by resetting the WAVE1[1:0] bits.

Figure 91. DAC triangle wave generation

Figure 91: DAC triangle wave generation graph. The y-axis represents the DAC output level, with labels for '0', 'DAC_DHR1 base value', and 'MAMP1[3:0] max amplitude+ DAC_DHR1 base value'. The x-axis represents time. The waveform is a triangle wave starting at the base value, rising linearly (labeled 'Incrementation'), reaching the maximum amplitude, and then falling linearly (labeled 'Decrementation') back towards the base value.
Figure 91: DAC triangle wave generation graph. The y-axis represents the DAC output level, with labels for '0', 'DAC_DHR1 base value', and 'MAMP1[3:0] max amplitude+ DAC_DHR1 base value'. The x-axis represents time. The waveform is a triangle wave starting at the base value, rising linearly (labeled 'Incrementation'), reaching the maximum amplitude, and then falling linearly (labeled 'Decrementation') back towards the base value.

Figure 92. DAC conversion (SW trigger enabled) with triangle wave generation

Figure 92: Timing diagram for DAC conversion with triangle wave generation. It shows four signals: dac_pclk (a periodic clock), DHR (Data Hold Register, set to 0xABE), DOR (Data Output Register, showing values 0xABE, 0xABF, 0xAC0), and SWTRIG (Software Trigger, a pulse). Vertical dashed lines indicate the sequence of events: a SWTRIG pulse followed by three clock cycles later, the DOR value increments by 1 (from 0xABE to 0xABF, then to 0xAC0).
Figure 92: Timing diagram for DAC conversion with triangle wave generation. It shows four signals: dac_pclk (a periodic clock), DHR (Data Hold Register, set to 0xABE), DOR (Data Output Register, showing values 0xABE, 0xABF, 0xAC0), and SWTRIG (Software Trigger, a pulse). Vertical dashed lines indicate the sequence of events: a SWTRIG pulse followed by three clock cycles later, the DOR value increments by 1 (from 0xABE to 0xABF, then to 0xAC0).

Note: The DAC trigger must be enabled for triangle wave generation by setting the TEN1 bit in the DAC_CR register.

The MAMP1[3:0] bits must be configured before enabling the DAC, otherwise they cannot be changed.

19.4.11 DAC channel modes

The DAC channel can be configured in normal mode or sample and hold mode. The output buffer can be enabled to obtain a high drive capability. Before enabling output buffer, the voltage offset needs to be calibrated. This calibration is performed at the factory (loaded after reset) and can be adjusted by software during application operation.

Normal mode

In normal mode, there are four combinations, by changing the buffer state and by changing the DACx_OUT1 pin interconnections.

To enable the output buffer, the MODE1[2:0] bits in DAC_MCR register must be:

To disable the output buffer, the MODE1[2:0] bits in DAC_MCR register must be:

Sample and hold mode

In sample and hold mode, the DAC core converts data on a triggered conversion, and then holds the converted voltage on a capacitor. When not converting, the DAC cores and buffer are completely turned off between samples and the DAC output is tri-stated, therefore reducing the overall power consumption. A stabilization period, which value depends on the buffer state, is required before each new conversion.

In this mode, the DAC core and all corresponding logic and registers are driven by the LSI low-speed clock (dac_hold_ck) in addition to the dac_pclk clock, allowing using the DAC channel in deep low power modes such as Stop mode.

The LSI low-speed clock (dac_hold_ck) must not be stopped when the sample and hold mode is enabled.

The sample/hold mode operations can be divided into three phases:

  1. 1. Sample phase: the sample/hold element is charged to the desired voltage. The charging time depends on capacitor value (internal or external, selected by the user). The sampling time is configured with the TSAMPLE1[9:0] bits in DAC_SHSR1 register. During the write of the TSAMPLE1[9:0] bits, the BWST1 bit in DAC_SR register is set to 1 to synchronize between both clocks domains (APB and low speed clock) and allowing the software to change the value of sample phase during the DAC channel operation
  2. 2. Hold phase: the DAC output channel is tri-stated, the DAC core and the buffer are turned off, to reduce the current consumption. The hold time is configured with the THOLD1[9:0] bits in DAC_SHHR register
  3. 3. Refresh phase: the refresh time is configured with the TREFRESH1[7:0] bits in DAC_SHRR register

The timings for the three phases above are in units of LSI clock periods. As an example, to configure a sample time of 350 \( \mu\text{s} \) , a hold time of 2 ms and a refresh time of 100 \( \mu\text{s} \) assuming LSI \( \sim 32 \) KHz is selected:

In this example, the power consumption is reduced by almost a factor of 15 versus normal modes.

The formulas to compute the right sample and refresh timings are described in the table below, the Hold time depends on the leakage current.

Table 115. Sample and refresh timings

Buffer State\( t_{\text{SAMP}}^{(1)(2)} \)\( t_{\text{REFRESH}}^{(2)(3)} \)
Enable\( 7 \mu\text{s} + (10 * R_{\text{BON}} * C_{\text{SH}}) \)\( 7 \mu\text{s} + (R_{\text{BON}} * C_{\text{SH}}) * \ln(2 * N_{\text{LSB}}) \)
Disable\( 3 \mu\text{s} + (10 * R_{\text{BOFF}} * C_{\text{SH}}) \)\( 3 \mu\text{s} + (R_{\text{BOFF}} * C_{\text{SH}}) * \ln(2 * N_{\text{LSB}}) \)
  1. 1. In the above formula, the settling to the desired code value with \( \frac{1}{2} \) LSB or accuracy requires 10 constant time for 12 bits resolution. For 8-bit resolution, the settling time is 7 constant time.
  2. 2. \( C_{\text{SH}} \) is the capacitor in sample and hold mode.
  3. 3. The tolerated voltage drop during the hold phase “Vd” is represented by the number of LSBs after the capacitor discharging with the output leakage current. The settling back to the desired value with \( \frac{1}{2} \) LSB error accuracy requires \( \ln(2 * N_{\text{lsb}}) \) constant time of the DAC.

Example of the sample and refresh time calculation with output buffer on

The values used in the example below are provided as indication only. Refer to the product datasheet for product data.

\[ C_{\text{SH}} = 100 \text{ nF} \]

\[ V_{\text{DD}} = 3.0 \text{ V} \]

Sampling phase:

\[ t_{\text{SAMP}} = 7 \mu\text{s} + (10 * 2000 * 100 * 10^{-9}) = 2.007 \text{ ms} \]

(where \( R_{\text{BON}} = 2 \text{ k}\Omega \) )

Refresh phase:

\[ t_{\text{REFRESH}} = 7 \mu\text{s} + (2000 * 100 * 10^{-9}) * \ln(2 * 10) = 606.1 \mu\text{s} \]

(where \( N_{\text{LSB}} = 10 \) (10 LSB drop during the hold phase))

Hold phase:

\[ D_V = i_{\text{leak}} * t_{\text{hold}} / C_{\text{SH}} = 0.0073 \text{ V} \text{ (10 LSB of 12bit at 3 V)} \]
\[ i_{\text{leak}} = 150 \text{ nA} \text{ (worst case on the IO leakage on all the temperature range)} \]
\[ t_{\text{hold}} = 0.0073 * 100 * 10^{-9} / (150 * 10^{-9}) = 4.867 \text{ ms} \]

Figure 93. DAC sample and hold mode phase diagram

Figure 93. DAC sample and hold mode phase diagram. The diagram consists of three time-aligned plots. Top plot: DAC output voltage vs time, showing levels V1, Vd, and V2. The curve rises in the Sampling phase, stays near Vd in the Hold phase, has a small pulse in the Refresh phase, and rises again in a second Sampling phase. Middle plot: dac_hold_ck, a continuous high-frequency square wave clock. Bottom plot: DAC state, showing 'ON' during Sampling and Refresh phases, and 'OFF' during the Hold phase. The phases are sequentially: Sampling phase, Hold phase, Refresh phase, and Sampling phase. Labeled MSV45340V3.
Figure 93. DAC sample and hold mode phase diagram. The diagram consists of three time-aligned plots. Top plot: DAC output voltage vs time, showing levels V1, Vd, and V2. The curve rises in the Sampling phase, stays near Vd in the Hold phase, has a small pulse in the Refresh phase, and rises again in a second Sampling phase. Middle plot: dac_hold_ck, a continuous high-frequency square wave clock. Bottom plot: DAC state, showing 'ON' during Sampling and Refresh phases, and 'OFF' during the Hold phase. The phases are sequentially: Sampling phase, Hold phase, Refresh phase, and Sampling phase. Labeled MSV45340V3.

Like in normal mode, the sample and hold mode has different configurations.

To enable the output buffer, MODE1[2:0] bits in DAC_MCR register must be set to:

To disabled the output buffer, MODE1[2:0] bits in DAC_MCR register must be set to:

When MODE1[2:0] bits are equal to 111, an internal capacitor, \( C_{Lint} \) , holds the voltage output of the DAC core and then drive it to on-chip peripherals.

All sample and hold phases are interruptible, and any change in DAC_DHR1 immediately triggers a new sample phase.

Table 116. Channel output modes summary

MODE1[2:0]ModeBufferOutput connections
000Normal modeEnabledConnected to external pin
001Connected to external pin and to on chip-peripherals (such as comparators)
010DisabledConnected to external pin
011Connected to on chip peripherals (such as comparators)

Table 116. Channel output modes summary (continued)

MODE1[2:0]ModeBufferOutput connections
100Sample and hold modeEnabledConnected to external pin
101Connected to external pin and to on chip peripherals (such as comparators)
110DisabledConnected to external pin and to on chip peripherals (such as comparators)
111Connected to on chip peripherals (such as comparators)

19.4.12 DAC channel buffer calibration

The transfer function for an N-bit digital-to-analog converter (DAC) is:

\[ V_{out} = \left( (D / 2^N) \times G \times V_{REF} \right) + V_{OS} \]

Where \( V_{OUT} \) is the analog output, \( D \) is the digital input, \( G \) is the gain, \( V_{REF} \) is the nominal full-scale voltage, and \( V_{OS} \) is the offset voltage. For an ideal DAC channel, \( G = 1 \) and \( V_{OS} = 0 \) .

Due to output buffer characteristics, the voltage offset may differ from part-to-part and introduce an absolute offset error on the analog output. To compensate the \( V_{OS} \) , a calibration is required by a trimming technique.

The calibration is only valid when the DAC channel is operating with buffer enabled (MODE1[2:0] = 0b000 or 0b001 or 0b100 or 0b101). if applied in other modes when the buffer is off, it has no effect. During the calibration:

Two calibration techniques are provided:

Note: Refer to the datasheet for more details of the nominal factory trimming conditions.

In addition, when \( V_{DD} \) is removed (example the device enters in Standby or VBAT modes) the calibration is required.

The steps to perform a user trimming calibration are as below:

  1. 1. If the DAC channel is active, write 0 to EN1 bit in DAC_CR to disable the channel.
  2. 2. Select a mode where the buffer is enabled, by writing to DAC_MCR register, MODE1[2:0] = 0b000 or 0b001 or 0b100 or 0b101.
  3. 3. Start the DAC channel calibration, by setting the CEN1 bit in DAC_CR register to 1.
  4. 4. Apply a trimming algorithm:
    1. a) Write a code into OTRIM1[4:0] bits, starting by 0b00000.
    2. b) Wait for \( t_{TRIM} \) delay.
    3. c) Check if CAL_FLAG1 bit in DAC_SR is set to 1.
    4. d) If CAL_FLAG1 is set to 1, the OTRIM1[4:0] trimming code is found and can be used during device operation to compensate the output value, else increment OTRIM1[4:0] and repeat sub-steps from (a) to (d) again.
    5. e) If CAL_FLAG1 remains cleared, set OTRIM1[4:0] to 0b11111.

The software algorithm may use either a successive approximation or dichotomy techniques to compute and set the content of OTRIM1[4:0] bits in a faster way.

The commutation/toggle of CAL_FLAG1 bit indicates that the offset is correctly compensated and the corresponding trim code must be kept in the OTRIM1[4:0] bits in DAC_CCR register.

Note: A \( t_{TRIM} \) delay must be respected between the write to the OTRIM1[4:0] bits and the read of the CAL_FLAG1 bit in DAC_SR register in order to get a correct value. This parameter is specified into datasheet electrical characteristics section.

If \( V_{DDA} \) , \( V_{REF+} \) and temperature conditions do not change during device operation while it enters more often in Standby and VBAT modes, the software may store the OTRIM1[4:0] bits found in the first user calibration in the flash or in back-up registers. then to load/write them directly when the device power is back again thus avoiding to wait for a new calibration time.

When CEN1 bit is set, it is not allowed to set EN1 bit.

19.4.13 DAC channel conversion modes

Four conversion modes are possible.

Independent trigger without wave generation

To configure the DAC in this conversion mode, the following sequence is required:

  1. 1. Set the DAC channel trigger enable bit, TEN1.
  2. 2. Configure the trigger sources by setting different values in the TSEL1[3:0] bits.
  3. 3. Load the DAC channel data into the desired DHR registers (DAC_DHR12R1, DAC_DHR12L1 or DAC_DHR8R1).

When a DAC channel trigger arrives, the DHR1 register is transferred into DAC_DOR1 (three dac_pclk clock cycles later).

Independent trigger with single LFSR generation

To configure the DAC in this conversion mode, the following sequence is required:

  1. 1. Set the DAC channel trigger enable bit, TEN1.
  2. 2. Configure the trigger sources by setting different values in the TSEL1[3:0] bits.
  3. 3. Configure the DAC channel WAVE1[1:0] bits as 01 and the same LFSR mask value in the MAMP1[3:0] bits.
  4. 4. Load the DAC channel data into the desired DHR register (DAC_DHR12R1, DAC_DHR12L1 or DAC_DHR8R1).

When a DAC channel trigger arrives, the LFSR1 counter, with the same mask, is added to the DHR1 register and the sum is transferred into DAC_DOR1 (three dac_pclk clock cycles later). Then the LFSR1 counter is updated.

Independent trigger with single triangle generation

To configure the DAC in this conversion mode, the following sequence is required:

  1. 1. Set the DAC channel trigger enable bits, TEN1.
  2. 2. Configure the trigger sources by setting different values in the TSEL1[3:0] bits.
  3. 3. Configure the DAC channel WAVE1[1:0] bits as 1x and the same maximum amplitude value in the MAMP1[3:0] bits.
  4. 4. Load the DAC channel data into the desired DHR register (DAC_DHR12R1, DAC_DHR12L1 or DAC_DHR8R1).

When a DAC channel trigger arrives, the DAC channel triangle counter, with the same triangle amplitude, is added to the DHR1 register and the sum is transferred into DAC_DOR1 (three dac_pclk clock cycles later). The DAC channel triangle counter is then updated.

Independent trigger with single sawtooth generation

To configure the DAC in this conversion mode, the following sequence is required:

  1. 1. Configure the trigger sources by setting different values in STRSTTRIGSEL1[3:0] and STINCTRIGSEL1[3:0] bits.
  2. 2. Configure the DAC channel WAVE1[1:0] bits to 11 and set the same STRSTDATA1[11:0], STINCDATA1[15:0] and STDIR1 values for each register.

When a DAC channel trigger arrives, the DAC channel sawtooth counter updates the DHR1 register and transfers it into DAC_DOR1 (three APB clock cycles later).

19.5 DAC in low-power modes

Table 117. Effect of low-power modes on DAC

ModeDescription
SleepNo effect, DAC used with DMA
LPRunNo effect.
LPSleepNo effect. DAC used with DMA.

Table 117. Effect of low-power modes on DAC (continued)

ModeDescription
Stop 0 / Stop 1The DAC remains active with a static value if the sample and hold mode is selected using LSI clock.
Stop 2The DAC registers content is lost and must be reinitialized after exiting Stop 2. The DAC must be disabled before entering Stop 2.
StandbyThe DAC peripheral is powered down and must be reinitialized after exiting Standby or Shutdown mode.
Shutdown

19.6 DAC interrupts

Table 118. DAC interrupts

Interrupt acronymInterrupt eventEvent flagEnable control bitInterrupt clear methodExit Sleep modeExit Stop modeExit Standby mode
DACDMA underrunDMAUDR1DMAUDRIE1Write DMAUDRx = 1YesNoNo

19.7 DAC registers

Refer to Section 1 on page 60 for a list of abbreviations used in register descriptions.

The peripheral registers have to be accessed by words (32-bit).

19.7.1 DAC control register (DAC_CR)

Address offset: 0x00

Reset value: 0x0000 0000

31302928272625242322212019181716
Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.
1514131211109876543210
Res.CEN1DMAUDRIE1DMAEIN1MAMP1[3:0]WAVE1[1:0]TSEL1[3]TSEL1[2]TSEL1[1]TSEL1[0]TEN1EN1
rwrwrwrwrwrwrwrwrwrwrwrwrwrwrw

Bit 31 Reserved, must be kept at reset value.

Bits 30:16 Reserved, must be kept at reset value.

Bit 15 Reserved, must be kept at reset value.

Bit 14 CEN1 : DAC channel1 calibration enable

This bit is set and cleared by software to enable/disable DAC channel1 calibration, it can be written only if bit EN1 = 0 into DAC_CR (the calibration mode can be entered/exit only when the DAC channel is disabled) Otherwise, the write operation is ignored.

0: DAC channel1 in normal operating mode

1: DAC channel1 in calibration mode

Bit 13 DMAUDRIE1 : DAC channel1 DMA Underrun Interrupt enable

This bit is set and cleared by software.

0: DAC channel1 DMA Underrun Interrupt disabled

1: DAC channel1 DMA Underrun Interrupt enabled

Bit 12 DMAEN1 : DAC channel1 DMA enable

This bit is set and cleared by software.

0: DAC channel1 DMA mode disabled

1: DAC channel1 DMA mode enabled

Bits 11:8 MAMP1[3:0] : DAC channel1 mask/amplitude selector

These bits are written by software to select mask in wave generation mode or amplitude in triangle generation mode.

0000: Unmask bit0 of LFSR/ triangle amplitude equal to 1

0001: Unmask bits[1:0] of LFSR/ triangle amplitude equal to 3

0010: Unmask bits[2:0] of LFSR/ triangle amplitude equal to 7

0011: Unmask bits[3:0] of LFSR/ triangle amplitude equal to 15

0100: Unmask bits[4:0] of LFSR/ triangle amplitude equal to 31

0101: Unmask bits[5:0] of LFSR/ triangle amplitude equal to 63

0110: Unmask bits[6:0] of LFSR/ triangle amplitude equal to 127

0111: Unmask bits[7:0] of LFSR/ triangle amplitude equal to 255

1000: Unmask bits[8:0] of LFSR/ triangle amplitude equal to 511

1001: Unmask bits[9:0] of LFSR/ triangle amplitude equal to 1023

1010: Unmask bits[10:0] of LFSR/ triangle amplitude equal to 2047

≥ 1011: Unmask bits[11:0] of LFSR/ triangle amplitude equal to 4095

Bits 7:6 WAVE1[1:0] : DAC channel1 noise/triangle wave generation enable

These bits are set and cleared by software.

00: wave generation disabled

01: Noise wave generation enabled

1x: Triangle wave generation enabled

Only used if bit TEN1 = 1 (DAC channel1 trigger enabled).

Bits 5:2 TSEL1[3:0] : DAC channel1 trigger selection

These bits select the external event used to trigger DAC channel1

0000: SWTRIG1

0001: dac_ch1_trg1

0010: dac_ch1_trg2

...

1111: dac_ch1_trg15

Refer to the trigger selection tables in Section 19.4.2: DAC pins and internal signals for details on trigger configuration and mapping.

Note: Only used if bit TEN1 = 1 (DAC channel1 trigger enabled).

Bit 1 TEN1 : DAC channel1 trigger enable

This bit is set and cleared by software to enable/disable DAC channel1 trigger.

0: DAC channel1 trigger disabled and data written into the DAC_DHR1 register are transferred one dac_pclk clock cycle later to the DAC_DOR1 register

1: DAC channel1 trigger enabled and data from the DAC_DHR1 register are transferred three dac_pclk clock cycles later to the DAC_DOR1 register

Note: When software trigger is selected, the transfer from the DAC_DHR1 register to the DAC_DOR1 register takes only one dac_pclk clock cycle.

Bit 0 EN1 : DAC channel1 enable

This bit is set and cleared by software to enable/disable DAC channel1.

0: DAC channel1 disabled

1: DAC channel1 enabled

19.7.2 DAC software trigger register (DAC_SWTRGR)

Address offset: 0x04

Reset value: 0x0000 0000

31302928272625242322212019181716
Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.
1514131211109876543210
Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.SWTRIG1
w

Bits 31:2 Reserved, must be kept at reset value.

Bit 1 Reserved, must be kept at reset value.

Bit 0 SWTRIG1 : DAC channel1 software trigger

This bit is set by software to trigger the DAC in software trigger mode.

0: No trigger

1: Trigger

Note: This bit is cleared by hardware (one dac_pclk clock cycle later) once the DAC_DHR1 register value has been loaded into the DAC_DOR1 register.

19.7.3 DAC channel1 12-bit right-aligned data holding register (DAC_DHR12R1)

Address offset: 0x08

Reset value: 0x0000 0000

31302928272625242322212019181716
Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.
1514131211109876543210
Res.Res.Res.Res.DACC1DHR[11:0]
rwrwrwrwrwrwrwrwrwrwrwrw

Bits 31:12 Reserved, must be kept at reset value.

Bits 11:0 DACC1DHR[11:0] : DAC channel1 12-bit right-aligned data

These bits are written by software. They specify 12-bit data for DAC channel1.

19.7.4 DAC channel1 12-bit left aligned data holding register (DAC_DHR12L1)

Address offset: 0x0C

Reset value: 0x0000 0000

31302928272625242322212019181716
Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.
1514131211109876543210
DACC1DHR[11:0]Res.Res.Res.Res.
rwrwrwrwrwrwrwrwrwrwrwrw

Bits 31:16 Reserved, must be kept at reset value.

Bits 15:4 DACC1DHR[11:0] : DAC channel1 12-bit left-aligned data

These bits are written by software.

They specify 12-bit data for DAC channel1.

Bits 3:0 Reserved, must be kept at reset value.

19.7.5 DAC channel1 8-bit right aligned data holding register (DAC_DHR8R1)

Address offset: 0x10

Reset value: 0x0000 0000

31302928272625242322212019181716
Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.
1514131211109876543210
ResResResResResResResResDACC1DHR[7:0]
rwrwrwrwrwrwrwrw

Bits 31:8 Reserved, must be kept at reset value.

Bits 7:0 DACC1DHR[7:0] : DAC channel1 8-bit right-aligned data

These bits are written by software. They specify 8-bit data for DAC channel1.

19.7.6 DAC channel1 data output register (DAC_DOR1)

Address offset: 0x2C

Reset value: 0x0000 0000

31302928272625242322212019181716
Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.
1514131211109876543210
Res.Res.Res.Res.DACC1DOR[11:0]
rrrrrrrrrrrr

Bits 31:12 Reserved, must be kept at reset value.

Bits 11:0 DACC1DOR[11:0] : DAC channel1 data output

These bits are read-only, they contain data output for DAC channel1.

19.7.7 DAC status register (DAC_SR)

Address offset: 0x34

Reset value: 0x0000 0000

31302928272625242322212019181716
Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.
1514131211109876543210
BWST1CAL_FLAG1DMAUDR1Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.
rrrc_w1

Bits 31:16 Reserved, must be kept at reset value.

Bit 15 BWST1 : DAC channel1 busy writing sample time flag

This bit is systematically set just after sample and hold mode enable and is set each time the software writes the register DAC_SHSR1, It is cleared by hardware when the write operation of DAC_SHSR1 is complete. (It takes about 3 LSI periods of synchronization).

0: There is no write operation of DAC_SHSR1 ongoing: DAC_SHSR1 can be written

1: There is a write operation of DAC_SHSR1 ongoing: DAC_SHSR1 cannot be written

Bit 14 CAL_FLAG1 : DAC channel1 calibration offset status

This bit is set and cleared by hardware

0: calibration trimming value is lower than the offset correction value

1: calibration trimming value is equal or greater than the offset correction value

Bit 13 DMAUDR1 : DAC channel1 DMA underrun flag

This bit is set by hardware and cleared by software (by writing it to 1).

0: No DMA underrun error condition occurred for DAC channel1

1: DMA underrun error condition occurred for DAC channel1 (the currently selected trigger is driving DAC channel1 conversion at a frequency higher than the DMA service capability rate)

Bit 12 Reserved, must be kept at reset value.

Bit 11 Reserved, must be kept at reset value.

Bits 10:0 Reserved, must be kept at reset value.

19.7.8 DAC calibration control register (DAC_CCR)

Address offset: 0x38

Reset value: 0x0000 00XX

31302928272625242322212019181716
Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.
1514131211109876543210
Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.OTRIM1[4:0]
rwrwrwrwrw

Bits 31:5 Reserved, must be kept at reset value.

Bits 4:0 OTRIM1[4:0] : DAC channel1 offset trimming value

19.7.9 DAC mode control register (DAC_MCR)

Address offset: 0x3C

Reset value: 0x0000 0000

31302928272625242322212019181716
Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.
1514131211109876543210
Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.MODE1[2:0]
rwrwrw

Bits 31:16 Reserved, must be kept at reset value.

Bits 15:10 Reserved, must be kept at reset value.

Bit 9 Reserved, must be kept at reset value.

Bit 8 Reserved, must be kept at reset value.

Bits 7:3 Reserved, must be kept at reset value.

Bits 2:0 MODE1[2:0] : DAC channel1 mode

These bits can be written only when the DAC is disabled and not in the calibration mode (when bit EN1 = 0 and bit CEN1 = 0 in the DAC_CR register). If EN1 = 1 or CEN1 = 1 the write operation is ignored.

They can be set and cleared by software to select the DAC channel1 mode:

Note: This register can be modified only when EN1 = 0.

19.7.10 DAC channel1 sample and hold sample time register (DAC_SHSR1)

Address offset: 0x40

Reset value: 0x0000 0000

31302928272625242322212019181716
Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.
1514131211109876543210
Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.TSAMPLE1[9:0]
rwrwrwrwrwrwrwrwrwrw

Bits 31:10 Reserved, must be kept at reset value.

Bits 9:0 TSAMPLE1[9:0] : DAC channel1 sample time (only valid in sample and hold mode)

These bits can be written when the DAC channel1 is disabled or also during normal operation. In the latter case, the write can be done only when BWST1 of DAC_SR register is low. If BWST1 = 1, the write operation is ignored.

Note: It represents the number of LSI clocks to perform a sample phase. Sampling time = (TSAMPLE1[9:0] + 1) x LSI clock period.

19.7.11 DAC sample and hold time register (DAC_SHHR)

Address offset: 0x48

Reset value: 0x0001 0001

31302928272625242322212019181716
Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.
1514131211109876543210
Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.
rwrwrwrwrwrwrwrwrwrw

Bits 31:16 Reserved, must be kept at reset value.

Bits 15:10 Reserved, must be kept at reset value.

Bits 9:0 THOLD1[9:0] : DAC channel1 hold time (only valid in sample and hold mode)

Hold time = (THOLD[9:0]) x LSI clock period

Note: This register can be modified only when EN1 = 0.

Note: These bits can be written only when the DAC channel is disabled and in normal operating mode (when bit EN1 = 0 and bit CEN1 = 0 in the DAC_CR register). If EN1 = 1 or CEN1 = 1 the write operation is ignored.

19.7.12 DAC sample and hold refresh time register (DAC_SHRR)

Address offset: 0x4C

Reset value: 0x0001 0001

31302928272625242322212019181716
Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.
1514131211109876543210
Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.
rwrwrwrwrwrwrwrw

Bits 31:8 Reserved, must be kept at reset value.

Bits 7:0 TREFRESH1[7:0] : DAC channel1 refresh time (only valid in sample and hold mode)

Refresh time = (TREFRESH[7:0]) x LSI clock period

Note: This register can be modified only when EN1 = 0.

Note: These bits can be written only when the DAC channel is disabled and in normal operating mode (when bit EN1 = 0 and bit CEN1 = 0 in the DAC_CR register). If EN1 = 1 or CEN1 = 1 the write operation is ignored.

19.7.13 DAC register map

Table 119 summarizes the DAC registers.

Table 119. DAC register map and reset values

OffsetRegister name
reset value
313029282726252423222120191817161514131211109876543210
0x00DAC_CRRes.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.CEN1DMAUDRIE1DMAEN1MAMP1[3:0]WAVE1[1:0]TSEL1[3:1]TSEL1[0]TEN1EN1
Reset value000000000000000
0x04DAC_SWTRGRRes.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.SWTRIG1
Reset value0
0x08DAC_DHR12R1Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.DACC1DHR[11:0]
Reset value000000000000
0x0CDAC_DHR12L1Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.DACC1DHR[11:0]Res.Res.Res.Res.
Reset value000000000000
0x10DAC_DHR8R1Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.DACC1DHR[7:0]
Reset value00000000
0x14 - 0x1CReservedRes.
0x20 - 0x28ReservedRes.
0x2CDAC_DOR1Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.DACC1DOR[11:0]
Reset value000000000000
0x30ReservedRes.
0x34DAC_SRRes.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.BWST1CAL_FLAG1DMAUDR1Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.
Reset value000
0x38DAC_CCRRes.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.OTRIM1[4]OTRIM1[3]OTRIM1[2]OTRIM1[1]OTRIM1[0]
Reset valueXXXXX
0x3CDAC_MCRRes.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.MODE1[2:0]
Reset value000

Table 119. DAC register map and reset values (continued)

OffsetRegister name
reset value
313029282726252423222120191817161514131211109876543210
0x40DAC_SHSR1Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.TSAMPLE1[9:0]
Reset value0000000000
0x44ReservedRes.
0x48DAC_SHHRRes.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.THOLD1[9:0]
Reset value000000001
0x4CDAC_SHRRRes.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.Res.TREFRESH1[7:0]
Reset value00000001
0x50-0x54ReservedRes.
0x58-0x60ReservedRes.
0x64-0x68ReservedRes.

Refer to Section 2.6 for the register boundary addresses.