Part A
AD5321BRM
Analog Devices Inc.
- Lifecycle
- Active
- Stock
- 97 PCS
- Series
- Data Acquisition - Digital to Analog Converters (DAC)
Replacement verdict
Not a drop-in replacement
The AD5324ARMZ and AD5321BRM are not functionally interchangeable. The AD5324ARMZ is a quad 12-bit DAC with an SPI interface, while the AD5321BRM is a single 12-bit DAC with an I²C interface. They differ in channel count, digital interface, package type, and reference architecture, requiring a complete redesign of the surrounding circuitry for any substitution.
Different channel count
Different digital interface
Different package type
Different reference architecture
Parts at a glance
Part B
AD5324ARMZ
Analog Devices Inc.
- Lifecycle
- Active
- Stock
- 3234 PCS
- Package
- MSOP-10
- Series
- Data Acquisition - Digital to Analog Converters (DAC)
Key differences
Rows are prioritized by design impact. Highlighted values require attention during substitution.
Key electrical and mechanical differences between the two devices
| Parameter | AD5324ARMZ | AD5321BRM | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number of DAC Channels | 4 | 1 | Determines how many independent analog outputs are available; a 4-channel device cannot be replaced by a 1-channel device without redesigning the output stage. |
| Resolution | 12 bits | 12 bits | Both provide 12-bit resolution, so the achievable output granularity and accuracy class are equivalent. |
| Interface Type | SPI / QSPI / MICROWIRE / DSP compatible | I2C compatible | The digital communication protocol must match the host controller; SPI and I2C are not directly interchangeable without firmware and wiring changes. |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.5 V to 5.5 V | 2.5 V to 5.5 V | Both operate over the same supply range, allowing use in similar low-voltage mixed-signal systems. |
| Output Type | Voltage output, buffered | Voltage output, buffered | Both provide buffered voltage outputs, so external output buffering requirements are similar. |
| Package | 10-lead MSOP | 8-lead MSOP | Different pin counts and footprints affect PCB layout and may prevent direct drop-in replacement. |
| Reference Type | External reference | External reference | Both require an external reference, so system reference design can remain similar. |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40 °C to +105 °C | -40 °C to +105 °C | Identical temperature ratings mean both are suitable for the same industrial temperature environments. |
| Power-Down Capability | Yes | Yes | Both support power-down modes, which is important for low-power system operation. |
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Full specification comparison
Use manufacturer datasheets as the final authority.
| Specification | AD5321BRM | AD5324ARMZ |
|---|---|---|
| Part Status | Obsolete | Active |
| Number of Bits | 12 | 12 |
| Number of D / A Converters | 1 | - |
| Settling Time | 10µs | 10µs |
| Output Type | Voltage - Buffered | Voltage - Buffered |
| Differential Output | No | No |
| Data Interface | I2C | SPI, DSP |
| Reference Type | Supply | External |
| Voltage - Supply, Analog | 2.5V ~ 5.5V | 2.5V ~ 5.5V |
| Voltage - Supply, Digital | 2.5V ~ 5.5V | 2.5V ~ 5.5V |
| INL / DNL (LSB) | ±2, ±0.3 | - |
| Architecture | String DAC | String DAC |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C ~ 105°C | -40°C ~ 105°C |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount | - |
| Base Product Number | AD5321 | - |
| Number of D/A Converters | - | 4 |
| INL / DNL(LSB) | - | ±2, ±0.2 |
Frequently asked questions
What are the key differences between the AD5324ARMZ and AD5321BRM?
The AD5324ARMZ is a quad 12-bit DAC with an SPI interface, housed in a 10-lead MSOP package. The AD5321BRM is a single 12-bit DAC with an I2C-compatible interface, housed in an 8-lead MSOP package. The primary differences are the number of DAC channels (4 vs. 1), the digital interface type (SPI vs. I2C), and the package pin count and footprint.
Are the AD5324ARMZ and AD5321BRM pin-compatible?
No. The AD5324ARMZ is supplied in a 10-lead MSOP, while the AD5321BRM is supplied in an 8-lead MSOP. They have different pin counts and pin functions, so they are not pin-compatible and cannot be interchanged on the same PCB land pattern without redesign.
Can the AD5324ARMZ and AD5321BRM operate from the same supply voltage?
Yes. Both devices are specified for operation from a single 2.5 V to 5.5 V supply, per their respective manufacturer datasheets. However, actual performance specifications should be verified at the intended supply voltage for each part.
Do the AD5324ARMZ and AD5321BRM have the same resolution and DAC architecture?
Both are 12-bit voltage-output DACs. The AD5324ARMZ integrates four 12-bit DACs, while the AD5321BRM integrates a single 12-bit DAC. Both use a string DAC architecture with an output amplifier capable of rail-to-rail operation.
What digital interface does each device use?
The AD5324ARMZ uses a 3-wire SPI-compatible serial interface. The AD5321BRM uses a 2-wire I2C-compatible serial interface. The interface choice affects the host controller pins required and the communication protocol implemented in firmware.
Are the AD5324ARMZ and AD5321BRM available in the same temperature grade?
Both the AD5324ARMZ and AD5321BRM are specified over the industrial temperature range of −40°C to +105°C, according to their respective datasheets. Designers should confirm the exact ordering part number and its associated temperature grade from the manufacturer's ordering guide.
Can the AD5324ARMZ be used as a drop-in replacement for the AD5321BRM in an existing design?
No. Because the devices differ in channel count, package size, pinout, and digital interface, a direct drop-in replacement is not possible. Any substitution requires a PCB redesign, firmware changes for the different interface protocol, and validation against the target design requirements.
Do both devices offer a power-on reset to zero scale or midscale?
Both the AD5324ARMZ and AD5321BRM include a power-on reset circuit. The AD5324ARMZ powers up to zero scale by default, with the option to power up to midscale via a control register setting. The AD5321BRM powers up to zero scale. Designers should verify the exact power-up condition in the respective datasheet for their specific application.