Which stage of a DAC determines the reference voltage or current that appears at the output?

The scaling network is crucial in determining the reference voltage or current that appears at the output of a Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC). In this context, the scaling network is responsible for adjusting the output by applying the necessary conversion factor to the digital signal received from the digital interface and translating it into a corresponding analog voltage or current. This includes setting the range and resolution of the output signal, ensuring that it accurately reflects the intended analog representation of the digital input.

By effectively managing how the digital input is transformed into a real-world output, the scaling network plays an essential role in the overall functionality of the DAC. Understanding the significance of the scaling network helps clarify its function as it mediates between the digital nature of the input signal and the analog requirement of the output.