MCP4011T-502E/SN

Overview

The MCP4011T-502E/SN is a volatile, 6-bit digital potentiometer manufactured by Microchip Technology. It features 64 taps and a nominal resistance of 5 kΩ with ±20% tolerance. The device operates on a supply voltage range of 1.8V to 5.5V for logic and 2.7V to 5.5V for resistor characteristics. It utilizes a simple Up/Down (U/D) serial interface for wiper control. Key electrical parameters include a typical wiper resistance of 75 Ω, a maximum static current of 1 µA, and high-voltage tolerant inputs up to 12.5V. The component is housed in an SOIC-8 package and supports an extended operating temperature range from -40°C to +125°C.

Feature Summary

• 6-bit resolution providing 64 discrete tap positions for precise resistance adjustment.
• High-voltage tolerant digital inputs (CS and U/D) capable of handling up to 12.5V.
• Low power consumption with a maximum static current of 1 µA when the serial interface is inactive.
• Configurable as either a potentiometer or rheostat via terminal connection.

Applications

• Volume control in audio equipment.
• Gain adjustment in signal conditioning circuits.
• Voltage reference trimming in measurement systems.
• Bias setting for operational amplifiers.

Procurement Notes

Verify the suffix 'SN' corresponds to the SOIC-8 package and 'E' indicates the extended temperature grade (-40°C to +125°C). Confirm that the 'T' designation implies tape and reel packaging if bulk quantities are required. Ensure the application circuit respects the absolute maximum ratings for input voltages and supply currents to prevent device damage.

Selection Notes

Select this model for applications requiring a single-channel digital potentiometer with low pin count and high-voltage interface compatibility. The volatile memory requires the system to restore the wiper position upon power-up unless a custom Power-On Reset (POR) setting is arranged with the manufacturer. Consider the 5 kΩ resistance value against load requirements to ensure adequate current handling within the 2.5 mA limit.

Part Context

This component belongs to the MCP4011/2/3/4 family of low-cost, 64-step volatile digital potentiometers. While the MCP4011 is configured as a potentiometer, the family shares similar electrical characteristics and interfaces. Other variants like the MCP4012 offer rheostat configurations, while the MCP4013 and MCP4014 provide alternative pinouts in SOT-23 packages.

Replacement Considerations

Direct replacements within the same family include the MCP4011T-202E/SN (2.1 kΩ), MCP4011T-103E/SN (10 kΩ), and MCP4011T-503E/SN (50 kΩ). These parts share identical pinouts and control protocols but differ in total resistance values. Verify that the specific resistance requirement matches the replacement part number.