A complete digital thermometer on a chip, capable of replacing the normal combination of temperature sensor and analog-to-digital converter in most applications. It can measure temperature in units of 0.5° Centigrade (C) from -55° C to +125° C. (In Fahrenheit (°F), units of 0.9° F and a range of -67° F to +257° F.)

The DS1620 can also operate as a standalone thermostat. A temporary connection to a controller establishes the mode of operation and high/low-temperature set points. Thereafter, the chip independently controls three outputs: T (high), which goes active at temperatures above the high-temperature set point; T (low), active at temperatures below the set point; and T (com), which goes active at temperatures above the high set point, and stays active until the temperature drops below the low set point.