Complementary DAC topology for reduced output impedance dependency and improved dynamic performance

A complementary current-steering digital-to-analogue converter (DAC) topology is introduced which reduces the impact of the current source finite output impedance on the harmonic distortion. Using both a NMOS and a PMOS current source transistor, the linearity is determined by the output impedance matching of both current sources. Application of this technique reduces the required output impedance by five to 10 times compared to a regular DAC.