Part A
AD7945BR
Analog Devices Inc.
- Lifecycle
- Active
- Stock
- 4557 PCS
- Series
- Data Acquisition - Digital to Analog Converters (DAC)
Replacement verdict
Compatible functional replacement candidate
The AD7945BRZ and AD7945BR are functionally equivalent 12-bit multiplying DACs in the same SOIC-20 package, differing only in the RoHS-compliant Z-grade designation. The AD7945BRZ is a direct drop-in replacement for the AD7945BR in existing designs, with identical electrical performance and pinout.
Resolution and Architecture
High match
Package and Pinout
High match
Supply Voltage and Interface
High match
RoHS Compliance
Validation required
Key differences
Rows are prioritized by design impact. Highlighted values require attention during substitution.
Key electrical and mechanical differences between the two devices
| Parameter | AD7945BRZ | AD7945BR | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 12 bit | 12 bit | Determines the number of discrete output codes and the smallest detectable analog change; identical resolution means equivalent measurement granularity. |
| Number of DAC Channels | 1 | 1 | Defines how many independent analog outputs are available; matching channel count ensures the same system architecture can be used. |
| Digital Interface | Parallel | Parallel | The interface type must match the host controller's bus; both use a parallel interface so the same microcontroller/FPGA wiring applies. |
| Supply Voltage | 5 V | 5 V | Operating supply voltage must be compatible with the board's power rail; identical 5 V requirement allows direct substitution without rail changes. |
| Output Type | Current (unbuffered) | Current (unbuffered) | Determines whether an external op-amp or buffer is needed; matching current-output topology preserves the analog signal chain design. |
| Package / Case | 20-SOIC | 20-SOIC | Footprint and pinout must match for drop-in replacement; identical SOIC-20 packaging ensures PCB compatibility. |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount | Surface Mount | Assembly method must match the manufacturing process; both are surface-mount devices suitable for the same reflow process. |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40 °C to +85 °C | -40 °C to +85 °C | Defines the environmental envelope for reliable operation; matching ranges ensure equivalent thermal performance in the application. |
| RoHS / Lead-Free Status | RoHS compliant (lead-free) | Non-RoHS (contains lead) | Affects regulatory compliance and solder process selection; the Z suffix denotes lead-free/RoHS compliance, which may be mandatory for new designs. |
Need help validating a replacement?
Send your BOM and application constraints for technical and sourcing review.
Full specification comparison
Use manufacturer datasheets as the final authority.
| Specification | AD7945BR | AD7945BRZ |
|---|---|---|
| Part Status | Obsolete | Active |
| Number of Bits | 12 | 12 |
| Number of D / A Converters | 1 | - |
| Settling Time | 600µs (Typ) | 600µs (Typ) |
| Output Type | Current - Unbuffered | Current - Unbuffered |
| Differential Output | No | No |
| Data Interface | Parallel | Parallel |
| Reference Type | External | External |
| Voltage - Supply, Analog | 5V | 5V |
| Voltage - Supply, Digital | 5V | 5V |
| INL / DNL (LSB) | ±0.5 (Max), ±0.5 (Max) | - |
| Architecture | R-2R | R-2R |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C ~ 85°C | -40°C ~ 85°C |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount | - |
| Base Product Number | AD7945 | - |
| Number of D/A Converters | - | 1 |
| INL / DNL(LSB) | - | ±0.5 (Max), ±0.5 (Max) |
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the AD7945BRZ and the AD7945BR?
The AD7945BRZ and AD7945BR are both 12-bit, 5 V, multiplying DACs from Analog Devices in a 20-lead SOIC package. The primary difference is the "Z" suffix on the AD7945BRZ, which denotes a RoHS-compliant, lead-free (Pb-free) package variant, whereas the AD7945BR is the non-RoHS leaded version. Electrical performance specifications are otherwise equivalent per the datasheet.
Are the AD7945BRZ and AD7945BR electrically interchangeable?
Yes. Both parts share the same 12-bit multiplying DAC architecture, the same 20-lead SOIC pinout, and the same specified electrical performance. The only documented difference is the package finish (RoHS-compliant vs. non-RoHS), so they are functionally interchangeable in a design that does not impose a specific compliance requirement.
What is the resolution and architecture of the AD7945BRZ/AD7945BR?
Both devices are 12-bit multiplying digital-to-analog converters (DACs) with a current-output architecture designed for multiplying applications. They accept an external reference and are intended for use where the reference can be a varying signal, enabling multiplication of the digital input by the analog reference.
What supply voltage do the AD7945BRZ and AD7945BR require?
Both parts operate from a single 5 V supply (VDD = 5 V nominal) per the Analog Devices datasheet. Designers should confirm the exact supply range and any reference input constraints against the current official datasheet before finalizing a design.
What package do the AD7945BRZ and AD7945BR use?
Both are offered in a 20-lead SOIC (small outline integrated circuit) package. The "Z" suffix on the AD7945BRZ indicates the RoHS-compliant, lead-free version of that same package, while the AD7945BR is the leaded (non-RoHS) version.
Does the "Z" suffix affect the operating temperature range?
No. The "Z" suffix designates RoHS/lead-free package compliance, not a temperature grade. Both the AD7945BRZ and AD7945BR are specified for the industrial temperature range per the Analog Devices datasheet; confirm the exact range in the current datasheet before use.
Which part should be selected for a RoHS-compliant design?
The AD7945BRZ should be selected for RoHS-compliant, lead-free assembly requirements, since its "Z" suffix denotes the Pb-free, RoHS-compliant package. The AD7945BR is the non-RoHS leaded variant and is generally not suitable where RoHS compliance is mandated.
Can the AD7945BRZ and AD7945BR be used in the same PCB footprint?
Yes. Both are 20-lead SOIC devices with the same pinout, so they share the same PCB land pattern. The difference is package finish (RoHS-compliant vs. non-RoHS), not footprint, allowing either part to be placed on the same board layout.