MCP4011-103E/MS

Overview

The MCP4011-103E/MS is a volatile, 6-bit digital potentiometer manufactured by Microchip Technology in an 8-pin MSOP package. It provides 64 taps (63 resistors) with a nominal resistance of 10 kΩ and a tolerance of ±20%. The device operates on a single supply voltage ranging from 1.8V to 5.5V for logic and 2.7V to 5.5V for resistor characteristics. It features a simple Up/Down serial interface and high-voltage tolerant inputs up to 12.5V. Static current consumption is typically 1 µA when the serial interface is inactive.

Feature Summary

• 6-bit resolution providing 64 discrete tap positions
• High-voltage tolerant digital inputs supporting up to 12.5V
• Low power operation with 1 µA maximum static current
• Configurable as either a potentiometer or rheostat

Applications

• Volume control in audio circuits
• Gain adjustment in instrumentation amplifiers
• Voltage reference trimming
• Programmable biasing networks

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific resistance value suffix '103' corresponds to 10 kΩ during sourcing. Confirm the 'E' designation indicates extended temperature range capability (-40°C to +125°C). Ensure the '/MS' suffix matches the required 8-lead MSOP surface-mount package for PCB layout compatibility.

Selection Notes

Select this component for applications requiring low-cost, volatile resistance adjustment via a simple two-wire interface. Note that wiper settings are lost upon power loss due to volatile RAM storage. Consider the 10 kΩ nominal value against circuit impedance requirements and verify that the 1 MHz toggle frequency meets system timing constraints.

Part Context

This part belongs to the MCP4011/2/3/4 family of low-cost digital potentiometers. The MCP4011 variant specifically supports potentiometer configuration, whereas other family members may be optimized for rheostat use. All variants share identical electrical specifications and pinouts but differ in internal terminal connections.

Replacement Considerations

Direct replacements within the same family include MCP4011-103T/MS (tape and reel packaging) or other resistance variants like MCP4011-503E/MS (50 kΩ). Cross-family replacement requires verifying interface compatibility and pinout alignment.

FAQ

What is the default wiper setting after power-up?

The device defaults to mid-scale (code 1Fh) upon power-up.

Can the CS and U/D pins handle voltages higher than VDD?

Yes, the digital inputs are high-voltage tolerant up to 12.5V regardless of the VDD level.

Is the wiper position retained when power is removed?

No, the memory is volatile RAM, so the wiper setting is lost when power is removed.