CAT5121TBI-50GT3

Digital Potentiometers Overview

The CAT5121TBI-50GT3 is a single-channel digital potentiometer IC from onsemi, configured as a variable resistor. It features 16 tap positions and an end-to-end resistance of 50 kΩ with a ±20% tolerance. The device operates on a single supply voltage ranging from 2.7 V to 5.5 V and draws a typical active supply current of 25 µA. Control is managed via a 2-wire Up/Down serial interface. The unit is housed in a space-saving SOT-23-6 surface-mount package.

Digital Potentiometers Feature Summary

• Configured as a variable resistor with 16-tap resolution
• End-to-end resistance of 50 kΩ (±20%) with 200 ppm/°C temperature coefficient
• Single-supply operation from 2.7 V to 5.5 V
• Ultra-low standby current of 0.3 µA

Digital Potentiometers Applications

• Gain adjustment in noninverting amplifier circuits
• LCD screen contrast or bias control
• Mechanical potentiometer replacement
• Line impedance matching

Digital Potentiometers Procurement Notes

Verify the component status before procurement, as this specific part number may be obsolete. Confirm that the SOT-23-6 package dimensions align with the PCB footprint requirements. Ensure the design supports the 2-wire serial interface timing constraints for reliable wiper position updates.

Digital Potentiometers Selection Notes

Select the CAT5121 variant specifically when a variable resistor configuration is required, distinguishing it from the CAT5120 (potentiometer) and CAT5122 (variable resistor with different terminal connections). Verify that the 16-tap resolution meets the application's precision needs and that the 50 kΩ resistance value fits the circuit design parameters.

Digital Potentiometers Part Context

This component belongs to the CAT5120/CAT5121/CAT5122 family of 16-tap digital potentiometers. These devices are designed to replace mechanical potentiometers in applications requiring digitally controlled resistance adjustments. The family shares common electrical characteristics but differs in internal terminal configurations and available resistance values.

Digital Potentiometers Replacement Considerations

Publicly confirmed substitute part numbers are not provided in the source documentation.