Electrical Engineering Glossary Definition for DNL

Definition

Differential Nonlinearity: A specification that appears in data-converter datasheets. In an ideal D/A converter, incrementing the digital code by 1 changes the output voltage by an amount that does not vary across the device's permitted range. Similarly, in an A/D, the digital value ramps smoothly as the input is linearly swept across its entire range. DNL measures the deviation from the ideal. An ideal converter has the code exactly the same size, and a DNL of 0 (zero).

Synonyms

• Differential Non-Linearity
• Differential Nonlinearity

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