MCP4017T-502E/LTY

Overview

The MCP4017T-502E/LTY is a single-channel digital potentiometer IC manufactured by Microchip Technology. It features a 5 kΩ end-to-end resistance (R_AB) with ±20% tolerance and offers 128 discrete tap positions for precise resistance adjustment. The device operates on an I²C serial interface, supporting standard (100 kHz) and fast (400 kHz) modes. It utilizes volatile RAM to store the wiper setting, which defaults to mid-scale (3Fh) upon power-up or brown-out reset. Electrical specifications include a typical wiper resistance of 100 Ω, a supply voltage range of 1.8 V to 5.5 V, and an operating temperature range from -40°C to +125°C.

Feature Summary

• 7-bit resolution providing 128 distinct tap steps for linear resistance control.
• I²C compatible serial interface with read/write commands for wiper position updates.
• Volatile memory architecture retains settings only while powered; resets to mid-scale on power loss.
• SC-70-6 surface-mount package designed for space-constrained PCB layouts.

Applications

• Programmable gain amplifier circuits requiring digital resistance adjustment.
• Voltage divider networks for biasing operational amplifiers or ADCs.
• Digital volume control stages in audio signal processing paths.
• Calibration adjustments for sensor signal conditioning circuits.

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix 'LTY' against the manufacturer's current datasheet to confirm package and tape/reel specifications. Ensure the design accounts for the volatile nature of the internal RAM, as the wiper position will not persist after power cycling. Confirm that the I²C bus pull-up resistors are correctly sized for the desired clock frequency within the 1.8 V to 5.5 V operating range.

Selection Notes

Select this component when a rheostat configuration is required rather than a potentiometer. The MCP4018 variant should be considered if a three-terminal potentiometer configuration is needed instead of the two-terminal rheostat setup provided by the MCP4017. Verify that the 5 kΩ resistance value aligns with the impedance requirements of the connected circuitry to avoid excessive loading or insufficient current drive capabilities.

Part Context

This part belongs to the MCP4017/18/19 family of 7-bit digital potentiometers. The MCP4017 specifically denotes the rheostat configuration, distinguishing it from the MCP4018 (potentiometer) and MCP4019 (rheostat in SC-70-5). All variants share identical electrical characteristics and I²C command sets but differ in pinout and terminal availability.

Replacement Considerations

MCP4017T-502E/LT

FAQ

What is the default wiper position after power-on?

The wiper defaults to the mid-scale position, corresponding to code 3Fh (decimal 63), upon power-on reset or brown-out reset.

Does the device retain its resistance setting without power?

No, the MCP4017 uses volatile RAM. The wiper setting is lost when power is removed and must be reprogrammed after each power cycle.

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported?

The device supports Fast Mode I²C operation up to 400 kHz, provided the supply voltage is at least 2.7 V.