Breakout Board for MCP4725 I2C DAC

Breakout Board for MCP4725 I2C DAC

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DET735
Part.No: MCP4725
€5.50
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MCP4725 Breakout Board – I2C 12-bit DAC module for outputting true analog voltages from any microcontroller. Ideal for Arduino projects involving audio, waveform generation, and analog control.

 

The MCP4725 Breakout Board (MPN: MCP4725) is a compact, easy-to-use I2C Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) module that lets your microcontroller output true analog voltages — something a standard PWM pin simply cannot achieve. Whether you're generating a sine wave, driving an analog circuit, or building a musical instrument, the MCP4725 bridges the digital world and the analog domain with minimal wiring.

Key Features

  • I2C Interface: Uses just two wires (SDA + SCL) → leaves most GPIO pins free for other tasks
  • 12-bit Resolution: 4096 discrete output voltage steps → smooth, precise analog output
  • Non-volatile EEPROM: Stores the last DAC value → output is restored automatically on power-up
  • Breakout Board Format: All pins broken out on 0.1" headers → breadboard and perfboard compatible
  • Revised Board Design: This version corrects the IC footprint and I2C pinout found in earlier revisions → improved reliability and easier wiring

Pinout & Wiring

PINSymbolDescription
1VCCSupply voltage (2.7V – 5.5V)
2GNDGround
3SCLI2C Clock
4SDAI2C Data
5OUTAnalog voltage output

Wiring note: Connect VCC and GND to your supply, then SCL→SCL and SDA→SDA on your microcontroller. The analog voltage appears on the OUT pin. Pull-up resistors on SDA/SCL are recommended if not already present on your board.

Compatibility

  • Arduino UNO / Nano (5V): Connect VCC to 5V; use the built-in Wire library with the standard I2C address (0x60 or 0x61).
  • ESP32 / ESP8266 (3.3V): Connect VCC to 3.3V; fully compatible — the MCP4725 operates down to 2.7V.
  • Raspberry Pi (3.3V): Compatible via the I2C bus; enable I2C in raspi-config before use.

Typical Applications

  • Audio & sound generation: Output sine waves or arbitrary waveforms for simple synthesizers and sound effects circuits.
  • Musical instruments & CV control: Drive voltage-controlled oscillators (VCOs) in DIY synth projects.
  • Analog sensor simulation: Replace a physical sensor with a precise, software-controlled voltage source during prototyping.
  • Motor & LED dimming: Provide a smooth analog control voltage to motor drivers or LED drivers that accept a voltage reference.
  • Data logging & test equipment: Generate calibration voltages for analog front-end circuits.

Technical Specifications

ParameterValue
InterfaceI2C
DAC Resolution12-bit (4096 steps)
Supply Voltage (VCC)2.7V – 5.5V
Output Voltage Range0V – VCC
On-board MemoryEEPROM (non-volatile)
Form FactorBreakout Board with 0.1" headers
MPNMCP4725

FAQ

Q: Can I have two MCP4725 modules on the same I2C bus?
A: Yes. The MCP4725 supports two selectable I2C addresses (0x60 and 0x61) via an address pin, allowing two modules on a single bus simultaneously.

Q: Does the MCP4725 remember its output value after a power cycle?
A: Yes — writing to the EEPROM (instead of just the DAC register) saves the value permanently, so the module restores the same output voltage on the next power-up.

Package Contents: 1 × MCP4725 Breakout Board (headers may require soldering).

⚠ Note: The analog output voltage cannot exceed VCC. Ensure your load impedance is appropriate for the DAC output stage. Always connect GND between the module and the microcontroller before applying power.
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