PCM5102 I2S Audio Stereo Digital-to-Analog Converter DAC Module
PCM5102 I2S Audio Stereo Digital-to-Analog Converter DAC Module
The PCM5102 I2S Audio Stereo DAC Module is a compact, high-quality digital-to-analog converter designed to convert digital PCM audio received through an I2S interface into stereo analog audio output. It is based on the Texas Instruments PCM5102A stereo DAC, supporting up to 32-bit audio and 384 kHz sampling rates at the IC level.
This module is particularly useful for Raspberry Pi, ESP32, STM32, Arduino-compatible audio projects, DIY music players, digital audio systems, amplifiers, and embedded Hi-Fi applications.
The pictured board provides an I2S interface through SCK, BCK, DIN and LCK pins and a 3.5 mm stereo audio jack for analog output. Many versions of this module are designed to accept 5V at VIN and regulate it down for the DAC circuitry, but the exact power arrangement can vary by board revision, so verify the markings or schematic of the supplied module before powering it.
Product Highlights:
- PCM5102A-based stereo audio DAC
- Digital I2S audio input
- 2-channel stereo analog output
- Up to 32-bit audio resolution
- Up to 384 kHz sampling rate at the PCM5102A IC level
- Typical DAC SNR of 112 dB
- Typical THD+N of −93 dB
- Integrated audio PLL
- DirectPath™ architecture
- No external DC-blocking capacitors required at the DAC output
- 3.5 mm stereo audio output
- Suitable for Raspberry Pi, ESP32 and STM32 projects
- Useful for DIY Hi-Fi and digital audio projects
- Compact PCB with through-hole header connections
TI specifies the PCM5102A as a 2-channel, 32-bit, 384-kHz stereo DAC with a typical 112 dB SNR and −93 dB THD+N.
Specifications:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Type | I2S Stereo Digital-to-Analog Converter |
| DAC IC | PCM5102A |
| Manufacturer of IC | Texas Instruments |
| DAC Channels | 2, Stereo |
| Architecture | Delta-Sigma DAC with line driver |
| Resolution | 32-bit |
| Maximum Sampling Rate | 384 kHz |
| Minimum Sampling Rate | 8 kHz |
| Typical SNR | 112 dB |
| Typical THD+N | −93 dB |
| Digital Interface | I2S / Left-Justified |
| Audio Data | 16, 24, 32-bit |
| Analog Output | Stereo L/R |
| Typical Output Level | 2.1 VRMS direct line-level output |
| Output Load | Down to 1 kΩ per line |
| Input Pins | SCK, BCK, DIN, LCK |
| Power Input | Common module versions use 5V VIN; verify board revision |
| Logic | 1.8V/3.3V digital input compatibility at IC level |
| Audio Connector | 3.5 mm stereo jack |
| DAC Control | Hardware configuration |
| IC Package | TSSOP-20 |
| IC Operating Temperature | −25°C to +85°C |
The core PCM5102A supports 16-, 24-, and 32-bit audio, standard I2S and left-justified formats, and sampling rates from 8 kHz to 384 kHz depending on operating/configuration mode.
PCM5102 Module Pinout
| Pin | Function | Description |
|---|---|---|
| VIN | Power | Module power input |
| GND | Ground | Power/audio ground |
| LCK / LRCK | Left/Right Clock | Word select / sample clock |
| DIN | Digital Audio Data | I2S serial audio data |
| BCK | Bit Clock | I2S bit clock |
| SCK | System Clock | Master/system clock input |
| L | Left Audio | Left analog output |
| R | Right Audio | Right analog output |
| G | Ground | Audio ground |
Important: SCK is the system clock, not the I2S bit clock. The PCM5102A can generate the system clock internally using its integrated PLL in supported configurations. Some common breakout boards therefore configure SCK to GND rather than supplying an external master clock.
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