Embedded newbie

I was in a need of an analog output output for my Arduino, and I found quite many different digital-to-analog converter (DAC) solutions by googling around. So finally I decided to gather them on one page as a reminder for myself and a guide for others. So here it comes! R-2R ladder DAC The most common way to build a DAC is to use a R-2R ladder circuit. Make: Online has a photo-guide for building one. However, this DAC has no output buffer, which would make this circuit a bit more reliable and working with all kinds of loads. MAKE: Online's DAC shield Make: Online - Proto-DAC shield for Arduino A Direct digital synthesizer build using a R-2R ladder DAC - This is worth a look if you're interested in outputting audio. R-2R ladder DAC with output buffer For the best results, you should use an output buffer in the DAC. The buffer separates your R-2R ladder from the load you connect it to and makes the result non load dependent. Here's maybe the best tutorial I...

I just got hold of  FTDI chip's new Vinculo developing platform, so here's a quick review for you! Vinculo is a 25€ development platform for the FTDI Vinculum II (VNC2) dual USB host/slave microcontroller. The board design has been copied from Arduino, and they even advertise it as Arduino-inspired and Arduino shield compatible. FTDI seems to have realized the potential that comes when having a large hobbyist userbase... Vinculo could be called a USB-enabled Arduino, but that really doesn't do the board justice. There are many features that set it apart from the Arduino, and it also beats Arduino in all the specs (see below). Of course, it's not nearly as user-friendly as the Arduino as a first platform. Look what I got in the mail! Vinculo board with the programming header uncovered (the pins on the right). Compared to Arduino, there are many differences:  - The USB ports on the Vinculo can not used for programming the microcontroller - they are use...