The MCP3208 is a 12-bit analog-to-digital converter (ADC) IC that converts up to 8 analog input voltages into digital data using the SPI protocol. It’s widely used in:

• Sensor interfacing (temperature, light, pressure, etc.)

• Data acquisition systems

• Embedded electronics where internal ADCs are not enough or accurate enough

• Microcontrollers without built-in ADCs

• 8 input channels, selectable as single-ended or differential

• 12-bit resolution (4096 steps)

• SPI-compatible interface (max 2.0 MHz @ 5V, 1.6 MHz @ 2.7V)

• Operates on 2.7V to 5.5V

• Low power consumption

• Sample-and-hold feature for stable readings

• DIP-16 package – great for breadboarding and prototyping

• Single-ended mode: Measure voltage of one channel against ground

• Differential mode: Measure voltage difference between two channels (e.g., CH0–CH1)
  Use single-ended mode for most basic sensor readings

• 12-bit resolution → values range from 0 to 4095

• Accuracy depends on VREF (reference voltage):

  • With VREF = 5V → Resolution ≈ 1.22 mV/step

• Includes internal sample-and-hold for stable measurement