Embedded newbie

One day I needed a simple R-2R ladder DAC, and needed an output buffer for it, so I started to design one. Initially I was planning to use the LM358, but then I remembered seeing an op amp from TI that would be more suited for the job. First off, I'd like to clear up two things for those that might wonder. Why I need an output buffer? For example the R-2R ladder digital-to-analog converter circuit cannot drive anything by itself. You should be able to observe the waveform with an oscilloscope (typically 1 megaohm input impedance) but probably cannot even drive a sound card input (~10kohm) with only the ladder. You need a buffer amplifier that has a voltage gain of 1 and can drive a low input impedance.   Why linearity is so important? So you get the value you wanted out from the circuit without any distortion. The TLV2472 single-supply op amp makes a great buffer. Unlike with the LM358 , the output is linear from 0 to VDD so you don't have to have an extra voltag...

How to program the STM32VLDISCOVERY board ? ST does not provide a toolchain themselves, instead there are three different officially supported toolchains available, for which ST has provided simple tutorials. All of the three official toolchains are for Windows, so Linux users have to think of something else. Fortunately, multiple options exist for also Linux users. Here's an overview of all the tools I'm aware of. First off, I'll explain the easy, official options. These are unfortunately only for Windows users. Officially promoted toolchains ST provides example code and documentation for three toolchains: Atollic TrueSTUDIO, IAR Embedded Workbench and Keil MDK-ARM. Download ST's example firmware package here User manual for the firmware package Below are some quick facts & links about the official toolchains. Atollic TrueSTUDIO (Windows) This is an Eclipse -based development platform that includes an optimizing C/C++ compiler, editor and a de...