AD8400ARZ50

Overview

The AD8400ARZ50 is a single-channel, 256-position digital potentiometer from Analog Devices. It operates on a single supply voltage ranging from 2.7 V to 5.5 V and features a nominal resistance of 50 kΩ with a temperature coefficient of 500 ppm/°C. The device utilizes a 3-wire SPI-compatible serial interface for data input, supporting update rates up to 10 MHz. It includes a power shutdown mode consuming less than 5 μA and an active-low reset pin that forces the wiper to midscale. Packaged in a compact SOIC-8 surface-mount format, it functions as an electronic replacement for mechanical potentiometers.

Feature Summary

• Single-channel variable resistor with 256 programmable tap positions
• Nominal resistance of 50 kΩ with ±1% channel-to-channel matching tolerance
• 3-wire SPI-compatible serial interface with 10 MHz data loading rate
• Power shutdown current less than 5 μA with latch retention

Applications

• Mechanical potentiometer replacement
• Programmable filters, delays, and time constants
• Line impedance matching
• Power supply adjustment

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific ordering suffix against the manufacturer's official Ordering Guide to confirm package type and tape/reel specifications. Ensure compatibility with the required industrial temperature range of −40°C to +125°C. Confirm that the 50 kΩ resistance value aligns with circuit design requirements before procurement.

Selection Notes

Select this component when a single-channel digital control is required for a 50 kΩ variable resistance application. The SOIC-8 package is suitable for space-constrained PCB layouts. Consider the 500 ppm/°C temperature coefficient for thermal stability needs. Verify that the system logic levels are compatible with the specified 2.7 V to 5.5 V operating range.

Part Context

The AD8400ARZ50 belongs to the AD8400/AD8402/AD8403 family of digital potentiometers. While the AD8402 offers dual channels and the AD8403 provides four channels, the AD8400 specifically integrates a single variable resistor. All variants share similar electrical characteristics and serial interface protocols but differ in pin counts and package options such as SOIC-14 or TSSOP.

Replacement Considerations

Direct functional replacements within the same family include the AD8400ARZ10 (10 kΩ) and AD8400ARZ100 (100 kΩ). For applications requiring multiple channels, the AD8402 or AD8403 may serve as alternatives if pinout compatibility is addressed. Verify that the replacement maintains the required 50 kΩ nominal resistance and SOIC-8 footprint.