READ AND WRITE INTERFACE COMMUNICATIONS PROTOCOL FOR DIGITAL-TO-ANALOG SIGNAL CONVERTER WITH NON-VOLATILE MEMORY

摘要

A mixed signal device, e.g., digital-to-analog converter (DAC) device has a serial interface communication protocol that accesses volatile and/or nonvolatile memory and allows a preprogrammed output voltage whenever the mixed signal device is powered-up. However, unlike conventional DAC devices, DAC devices with non-volatile memory may need special interface communication protocols for effective operation of the DAC device and communications between a system master controller unit (MCU). Interface communications protocols that do not violate standard serial bus communications protocols are provided for communicating between the volatile and non-volatile memories of the DAC device so that the MCU may access the DAC device's memories (non-volatile and/or volatile memories).