The MAX5138/MAX5139 are a family of single-channel pin-compatible and software-compatible 16-bit and 12-bit DACs. The MAX5138/MAX5139 are low-power, 16-bit/12-bit, buffered voltage-output, high-linearity DACs. They use a precision internal reference or a precision external reference for rail-to-rail operation. The MAX5138/MAX5139 accept a wide +2.7V to +5.25V supply-voltage range to accommodate most low-power and low-voltage applications. These devices accept a 3-wire SPI?-/QSPI?-/MICROWIRE?-/DSP-compatible serial interface to save board space and reduce the complexity of optically isolated and transformer-isolated applications. The digital interface’s double-buffered hardware and software active-low LDAC provide simultaneous output update. The serial interface features a active-low READY output for easy daisy-chaining of several MAX5138/MAX5139 devices and/or other compatible devices. The MAX5138/MAX5139 include a hardware input to reset the DAC outputs to zero or midscale upon power-up or reset, providing additional safety for applications that drive valves or other transducers that need to be off during power-up. The high linearity of the DACs makes these devices ideal for precision control and instrumentation applications. The MAX5138/MAX5139 are available in an ultra-small (3mm x 3mm), 16-pin TQFN package and are specified over the -40°C to +105°C extended industrial temperature range.