DNL

DNL is an acronym with multiple meanings across different disciplines. In electronics and signal processing, DNL refers to Differential Nonlinearity, a metric used to describe the uniformity of steps in a digital-to-analog or analog-to-digital converter. DNL measures how far successive output codes deviate from an ideal one-step change, typically expressed in units of least significant bit (LSB). A negative DNL can indicate missing codes between consecutive steps, while positive DNL indicates larger-than-ideal steps. DNL affects linearity, monotonicity, and overall converter accuracy and is related to, but distinct from, integral nonlinearity (INL). It is assessed during device characterization and can be mitigated through design choices, calibration, or calibration-based correction.

In biochemistry and metabolism, DNL stands for de novo lipogenesis, the biosynthesis of fatty acids from non-lipid precursors, mainly acetyl-CoA. This process occurs predominantly in the liver and to a lesser extent in adipose tissue. DNL is regulated by hormonal signals such as insulin and by nutritional state, with high carbohydrate intake and caloric surplus often increasing its activity. The pathway contributes to triglyceride synthesis and fat storage and is a focus of research on metabolic health, obesity, diabetes, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

In other contexts, DNL can denote terms specific to a field, but the two above are among the most widely used meanings. The intended interpretation is usually evident from the surrounding technical or disciplinary context.