MAX5161NEZT

Overview

The MAX5161NEZT+ is a low-power digital potentiometer IC manufactured by Analog Devices (Maxim Integrated). It functions as a solid-state variable resistor with 32 tap positions, replacing mechanical potentiometers in space-constrained designs. The device operates on a single supply voltage ranging from +2.7V to +5.5V and draws only 100nA of supply current. It features a 6-pin SOT-23 package and supports an increment/decrement control interface. Key electrical specifications include a nominal end-to-end resistance tolerance of ±25%, a wiper resistance of 400Ω, and a temperature coefficient of 50ppm/°C for the total resistance.

Feature Summary

• 32 discrete tap positions for precise digital resistance adjustment
• Ultra-low power consumption with 100nA supply current
• Single-supply operation compatible with +2.7V to +5.5V ranges
• Power-on reset mechanism sets wiper to mid-scale (position 16)

Applications

• LCD screen brightness or contrast adjustment
• Audio volume control circuits
• Replacement for mechanical potentiometers in embedded systems

Procurement Notes

Verify the presence of the '+' suffix in the part number, which indicates compliance with RoHS standards. Confirm the specific resistance value variant (50kΩ, 100kΩ, or 200kΩ) required for the application, as these are distinct SKUs within the MAX5161 family. Check manufacturing status, as older Maxim Integrated components may have limited availability or obsolescence risks.

Selection Notes

Select this component when a small form factor is critical, given its 6-pin SOT-23 packaging. Ensure the application requires an increment/decrement interface rather than SPI or I2C. Verify that the ±25% resistance tolerance and 400Ω wiper resistance meet the circuit's accuracy requirements. Consider the 50ppm/°C temperature coefficient if thermal stability is a design constraint.

Part Context

The MAX5161 belongs to the MAX5160/MAX5161 family of linear-taper digital potentiometers. While the MAX5160 utilizes an 8-pin µMAX package, the MAX5161 is optimized for smaller footprints using a 6-pin SOT-23 package. Both devices share identical electrical characteristics and functionality, differing primarily in physical dimensions and pin count.

Replacement Considerations

Direct functional equivalents include the AD5161 series from Analog Devices, which offers similar specifications but may vary in package type or interface options. Other potential replacements should be evaluated based on pin compatibility, supply voltage range, and tap resolution.