Digitally programmable resistor serves as test load

illustrates a digitally programmable precision resistance that can serve as a microprocessor-driven power-supply load in custom-designed ATE (automatic-test equipment). An 8-bit current-output DAC, IC1, a DAC08, drives current-to-voltage converter IC2A, which in turn drives the gate of power MOSFET Q1. The device under test connects to J1 and J2. In operation, current from the device under test develops a voltage across sampling resistors R8A and R8B. Amplifier IC2B drives IC1‘s reference input and closes the feedback path. Transistor Q2 provides overcurrent protection by diverting gate drive from Q1 when the voltage drop across R8A and R8B reaches Q2‘s VBE(ON). VO and IO represent the output voltage and current, respectively; N represents the decimal equivalent of the binary input applied to IC1; and A represents the gain of the amplifier stage IC2B. R1 comprises the parallel combination of R1A and R1B. Equation 1 describes the circuit’s load current:

Digitally programmable resistor serves as test load

Using the component values shown, the circuit’s equivalent resistance ranges from approximately 5.5Ω for N=0, an all-zero binary input, to 255Ω for N=255, an all-one binary input.

You can modify circuit values to cover other resistance ranges. Replacing the 8-bit DAC08 with a 10-bit D/A converter increases resistance resolution. To increase the circuit’s power-handling capability, replace Q1 with a higher power MOSFET and an appropriately sized heat dissipator. Capacitors C3 and C4 control the circuit’s bandwidth.

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Ibrar Ayyub

I am an experienced technical writer holding a Master's degree in computer science from BZU Multan, Pakistan University. With a background spanning various industries, particularly in home automation and engineering, I have honed my skills in crafting clear and concise content. Proficient in leveraging infographics and diagrams, I strive to simplify complex concepts for readers. My strength lies in thorough research and presenting information in a structured and logical format.

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