CAT5112VI-50-GT3

Digital Potentiometers Overview

The CAT5112VI-50-GT3 is a single-channel digitally programmable potentiometer (DPP) manufactured by onsemi. It features 32 adjustable taps with a nominal resistance of 50 kΩ and linear taper characteristics. The device incorporates a buffered wiper output, allowing it to drive external loads without affecting the internal resistive element's accuracy. It operates within a supply voltage range of 2.5 V to 6 V and utilizes a standard 3-wire serial interface for control. The component is housed in an SOIC-8 surface-mount package and supports operation across an industrial temperature range from -40°C to +85°C.

Digital Potentiometers Feature Summary

• 32-tap resolution with linear resistance taper
• Buffered wiper output for load driving capability
• Single-channel configuration with 50 kΩ nominal resistance
• 3-wire serial interface for up/down control

Digital Potentiometers Applications

• Programmable gain amplifiers requiring precise gain adjustment
• Voltage reference trimming in measurement systems
• Digital potentiometer replacement for mechanical pots in consumer electronics
• Audio volume control circuits with digital interface requirements

Digital Potentiometers Part Context

This component belongs to the CAT511x series of digitally programmable potentiometers. Unlike volatile counterparts such as the CAT5110, this specific part number denotes a volatile memory type, meaning the wiper position is reset upon power loss unless maintained by continuous power or external circuitry. It serves as a direct electronic alternative to mechanical potentiometers in space-constrained designs.

Digital Potentiometers Replacement Considerations

Direct pin-compatible replacements within the same family include other CAT5112 variants with different resistance values (e.g., CAT5112LI-10-G). When substituting, verify that the new component matches the 50 kΩ resistance value and retains the buffered wiper feature if load driving is required. Ensure the replacement also uses a 3-wire serial interface.