MCP3426A5T-E/MC

Analog To Digital Converters (ADC) Overview

The MCP3426A5T-E/MC is a 16-bit Delta-Sigma Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) from Microchip Technology. It features two differential input channels and an integrated I²C serial interface supporting Standard, Fast, and High-Speed modes. The device includes an on-board 2.048V voltage reference with ±0.05% accuracy and a programmable gain amplifier (PGA) offering gains of 1, 2, 4, or 8. It operates on a single supply voltage ranging from 2.7V to 5.5V and supports data rates of 15 SPS (16-bit), 60 SPS (14-bit), and 240 SPS (12-bit). The component is housed in an 8-pin MSOP package.

Analog To Digital Converters (ADC) Feature Summary

• 16-bit resolution with differential inputs and internal self-calibration for offset and gain errors.
• Integrated 2.048V voltage reference (±0.05% accuracy) and PGA with selectable gains of x1, x2, x4, or x8.
• I²C interface compatible with Standard (100 kHz), Fast (400 kHz), and High-Speed (3.4 MHz) modes.
• Low power consumption: 135 µA typical in continuous mode; down to 0.56 µA in one-shot standby mode.

Analog To Digital Converters (ADC) Applications

• Portable instrumentation and consumer goods
• Temperature sensing using RTDs, thermistors, and thermocouples
• Bridge sensing for pressure, strain, and force measurements
• Weigh scales and battery fuel gauges

Analog To Digital Converters (ADC) Procurement Notes

Verify the ordering suffix 'T' indicates tape-and-reel packaging and 'MC' denotes the MSOP-8 package. Confirm the factory-programmed I²C address corresponds to the specific variant required, as the MCP3426 lacks external address pins unlike the MCP3427/8. Ensure compatibility with the system's I²C bus speed and voltage levels.

Analog To Digital Converters (ADC) Selection Notes

Select this component for applications requiring high accuracy (10 ppm INL) and low noise without external references. Choose based on the required data rate versus resolution trade-off: 15 SPS for 16-bit, 60 SPS for 14-bit, or 240 SPS for 12-bit. Consider the fixed I²C address if multiple devices are used on the same bus, as address configuration is not user-adjustable for the MCP3426.

Analog To Digital Converters (ADC) Part Context

This part belongs to the MCP342X series of multi-channel ΔΣ ADCs. The MCP3426 specifically provides two differential channels, whereas the MCP3427 also has two channels but allows user-configurable I²C addresses via external pins. The MCP3428 offers four channels. All share identical electrical characteristics except for channel count and addressability.

Analog To Digital Converters (ADC) Replacement Considerations

The MCP3426A5T-E/MC is functionally interchangeable with other MCP3426 variants differing only in packaging (e.g., SOIC-8 D/SN, DFN-8 MS) or reel format (Tube vs. Tape & Reel). Verify that any replacement maintains the same 16-bit resolution, I²C interface, and package footprint.

Analog To Digital Converters (ADC) FAQ

How does the MCP3426 handle input overvoltage?

If the differential input voltage exceeds the full-scale range defined by VREF/PGA, the output code saturates at all 1s (positive) or all 0s (negative) except for the sign bit. The absolute maximum input voltage must remain within VSS-0.3V to VDD+0.3V to prevent ESD diode conduction.

What is the default configuration after power-up?

Upon power-up, the device resets to 12-bit resolution (240 SPS), Channel 1 selection, PGA gain of x1, and Continuous Conversion mode.

Can the MCP3426 be used for single-ended inputs?

Yes, although designed for differential inputs, the CHn- pin can be connected to VSS (Ground) to configure the channel for single-ended operation.