Acromag IP236-8 16-Bit D/A Analog Output Module with FIFO Buffers

The Acromag IP236-8 is a 16-bit Digital-to-Analog output module delivering eight independent analog voltage channels for industrial control and automation systems. Each channel includes a 128-sample FIFO buffer with dedicated clock, enabling independent conversion rates, seamless waveform updates, and flexible triggering via software, external, or internal timer control. Output ranges are jumper-selectable at ±5V, ±10V, or 0 to 10V with maximum accuracy of ±0.0061% of 20V span (calibrated, 25°C, unloaded).

The module achieves 100 kHz throughput across all eight channels and supports continuous, single, and external trigger modes for precise signal generation and synchronization across multiple modules.

Technical Specifications

• 8 channels, 16-bit resolution


• Output ranges: ±5V, ±10V, 0 to 10V (jumper-selectable)


• Maximum throughput: 100 kHz total (10 µs per 8 channels), 100 kHz single channel


• System accuracy: ±0.0061% of 20V span maximum (calibrated, 25°C, unloaded)


• Output current: -5 mA to +5 mA


• Short circuit protection: Indefinite at 25°C


• Output at reset: 0V (bipolar), 5V (unipolar)


• 128-sample FIFO buffer per channel with independent DAC programming Triggering & Control


• Trigger modes: Software, external, internal timer


• FIFO modes: Continuous (waveform cycling), Single (one value per trigger), External synchronization


• Interrupt capability supported


• External trigger output supported Performance & Access


• All functions: 0 wait states (250 nS cycle)


• FIFO buffer write: 2 wait states (500 nS cycle)


• Interrupt read/write: 2 wait states (250 nS cycle) Environmental & Power


• Operating temperature: 0°C to 70°C (standard); -40°C to 85°C (extended)


• Storage temperature: -55°C to 125°C


• Relative humidity: 5% to 95% non-condensing


• Power: +5V ±5% (250 mA max), ±12V ±5% (210 mA max)

Key Features

• Independent per-channel FIFO buffers enable asynchronous, multi-rate output waveforms


• On-the-fly output updates without waveform interruption in continuous mode


• External trigger output for cross-module synchronization


• Direct register and FIFO loading for minimal latency

Typical Applications

• Waveform and function generation in automated test systems


• Real-time process control requiring precise, synchronized analog outputs


• Multi-channel signal simulation and hardware-in-the-loop testing

Compatibility & Integration Designed for Industry Pack (IP) carrier systems compliant with ANSI/VITA 4-1995. Supports IOSel, IDSel, and INTsel data transfer cycle types. Software support packages available from Acromag.