Getting 12-bit Resolution from 8-bit DACs

For many applications, there are times when greater DAC resolution can save a design. Rather than have to increase system cost by introducing an external DAC with higher resolution or moving to a new microcontroller, developers can use one of four methods to extend an 8-bit DAC up to 12-bits of resolution. This paper will discuss these methods in detail, as well as describe ways to implement these methods that have no impact on CPU utilization. Code examples optimized for Cypress' PSoC 3 and PSoC 5 families of microcontrollers with integrated PWM and DMA capabilities are provided as well.