How to Use DFRobot DFR1071 GP8211S 0-5V/10V 15-bit: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The DFRobot DFR1071 GP8211S is a high-resolution digital-to-analog converter (DAC) designed to provide precise analog signal generation. With a 15-bit resolution, it supports output voltage levels of 0-5V or 0-10V, making it ideal for applications requiring fine control over analog signals. This component is widely used in industrial automation, signal processing, and laboratory instrumentation.

• Industrial control systems
• Signal generation for testing and calibration
• Analog signal interfacing with microcontrollers
• Audio signal processing
• Laboratory instrumentation requiring high precision

The following table outlines the key technical details of the DFRobot DFR1071 GP8211S DAC:

The DFR1071 module has the following pinout:

1. Power Supply: Connect the VCC pin to a 5V power source and the GND pin to ground.
2. I2C Communication: Connect the SDA and SCL pins to the corresponding I2C pins on your microcontroller (e.g., Arduino).
3. Voltage Range Selection: Use the SEL pin to select the output voltage range:
   • Leave SEL unconnected or set it to LOW for a 0-5V range.
   • Set SEL to HIGH for a 0-10V range.
4. Analog Output: The OUT pin provides the analog voltage output based on the digital input sent via I2C.

• Ensure the power supply is stable and within the specified 5V range to avoid damage.
• Use pull-up resistors (typically 4.7kΩ) on the SDA and SCL lines for proper I2C communication.
• Avoid exceeding the maximum output current of 10mA to prevent overloading the DAC.
• For optimal performance, keep the module away from sources of electrical noise.

Below is an example of how to use the DFR1071 with an Arduino UNO to generate a 2.5V output (assuming a 0-5V range):

#include <Wire.h> // Include the Wire library for I2C communication

#define DAC_I2C_ADDRESS 0x58 // Default I2C address of the DFR1071

void setup() {
  Wire.begin(); // Initialize I2C communication
  Serial.begin(9600); // Initialize serial communication for debugging
  setDACOutput(32768); // Set DAC output to mid-scale (2.5V for 0-5V range)
}

void loop() {
  // The DAC output remains constant unless updated
}

// Function to set the DAC output
void setDACOutput(uint16_t value) {
  // Ensure the value is within the 15-bit range (0 to 32767)
  if (value > 32767) value = 32767;

  Wire.beginTransmission(DAC_I2C_ADDRESS); // Start I2C communication
  Wire.write((value >> 8) & 0xFF); // Send the high byte of the 15-bit value
  Wire.write(value & 0xFF); // Send the low byte of the 15-bit value
  Wire.endTransmission(); // End I2C communication

  Serial.print("DAC Output Set to: ");
  Serial.println(value);
}

• The setDACOutput function takes a 15-bit value (0 to 32767) and sends it to the DAC via I2C.
• For a 0-5V range, a value of 0 corresponds to 0V, and 32767 corresponds to 5V.
• Adjust the value based on the desired output voltage.

1. No Output Voltage

   • Ensure the power supply is connected and providing 5V.
   • Verify the I2C connections (SDA and SCL) and check for proper pull-up resistors.
   • Confirm the SEL pin is set correctly for the desired voltage range.

2. Incorrect Output Voltage

   • Check the digital input value sent to the DAC and ensure it is within the 15-bit range.
   • Verify the SEL pin configuration matches the intended voltage range (0-5V or 0-10V).

3. I2C Communication Failure

   • Ensure the I2C address (default: 0x58) matches the one used in your code.
   • Check for loose or incorrect wiring on the SDA and SCL lines.
   • Use an I2C scanner sketch to confirm the DAC is detected on the bus.

Q: Can I use the DFR1071 with a 3.3V microcontroller?
A: Yes, but you must use level shifters for the I2C lines to ensure compatibility with the 5V logic of the DAC.

Q: How do I change the I2C address of the DAC?
A: The DFR1071 has a fixed I2C address (0x58) and does not support address modification.

Q: What happens if I exceed the maximum output current?
A: Exceeding the 10mA limit may damage the DAC or cause incorrect output behavior. Always use a buffer circuit if higher current is required.

Q: Can I use the DAC for audio applications?
A: Yes, the high resolution and precision make it suitable for audio signal generation, but ensure the output is properly filtered for smooth waveforms.