DS1868E-10

Overview

The DS1868E-10 is a quad digital potentiometer manufactured by Dallas Semiconductor. It integrates four digitally controlled, solid-state linear potentiometers within a single package. Each channel offers 64 discrete resistance positions, allowing for precise electronic adjustment of analog signals without mechanical components. The device operates from a single 5V supply and features a nonvolatile design where wiper positions are maintained in the absence of power. Control and status data are exchanged via a standard 3-wire serial interface, enabling easy integration with microprocessors.

Feature Summary

• Quad configuration with four independent 64-position digital potentiometers
• Nonvolatile memory retains wiper settings during power loss
• 3-wire serial control interface for setting and reading positions
• Operates on a single 5V supply

Applications

• Audio volume and tone control circuits
• Programmable gain amplifiers
• Voltage reference adjustment
• Digital trimming of analog sensor signals

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix 'E' against the manufacturer's current datasheet to confirm temperature range and material compliance. Ensure the pinout matches the intended PCB footprint, as legacy Dallas Semiconductor packages may differ from modern equivalents. Confirm availability through authorized distributors given the component's age.

Selection Notes

Select this component when four independent digital pots are required in a compact form factor. The 64-position resolution is suitable for general-purpose adjustment but may be insufficient for high-precision applications requiring finer steps. Verify that the 3-wire serial protocol is compatible with the host controller's available GPIO or SPI pins.

Part Context

This part belongs to the DS18xx family of digital potentiometers from Dallas Semiconductor, which was later acquired by Maxim Integrated. The DS1868 serves as the quad-channel counterpart to the dual-channel DS1867 and the six-channel DS1806, providing a middle ground in terms of channel count and pin density.

Replacement Considerations

Direct replacements include the DS1868-10 (standard version) or the DS1868-50/100 for different resistance values. Cross-manufacturer alternatives such as the Microchip MCP41xxx series or Analog Devices AD52xx series require careful verification of pin compatibility and serial interface timing.