MCP4021-502E/SN

Overview

The MCP4021-502E/SN is a single-channel, nonvolatile digital potentiometer manufactured by Microchip Technology. It features a nominal resistance of 5 kΩ with 64 taps (63 resistors) and a ±20% tolerance. The device utilizes an Up/Down (U/D) serial interface for wiper control and incorporates WiperLock™ technology to store settings in EEPROM. Operating voltage ranges from 2.7V to 5.5V, with a maximum static current of 1 µA. It supports high-voltage tolerant inputs up to 12.5V and operates within an extended temperature range of –40°C to +125°C.

Feature Summary

• Nonvolatile memory with WiperLock™ technology retains the last wiper setting after power loss without requiring external write-protect pins.
• Simple Up/Down (U/D) serial interface controls the wiper position using only two logic pins (CS and U/D).
• High-voltage tolerant digital inputs allow direct interfacing with 12.5V logic levels while operating on lower supply voltages.
• Low power consumption with a maximum static current of 1 µA during inactive states.

Applications

• System calibration and trimming where persistent settings are required.
• Offset adjustment in signal conditioning circuits.
• Set-point configuration in control systems.
• Volume or gain control in audio and instrumentation applications.

Procurement Notes

Verify the package type matches the 'SN' suffix, which indicates an 8-lead SOIC package. Confirm the resistance value corresponds to the '-502' suffix (5 kΩ). Ensure the temperature grade 'E' meets the –40°C to +125°C requirement. Check RoHS compliance status if restricted substances are a constraint.

Selection Notes

Select this component when a simple two-wire control interface is preferred over SPI or I2C. Choose the 5 kΩ variant (-502) if the circuit requires this specific resistance range. Consider the 70 Ω typical wiper resistance for low-current applications. Verify that the 64-step resolution is sufficient for the required adjustment precision.

Part Context

This part belongs to the MCP4021/2/3/4 family of low-cost nonvolatile digital potentiometers. The MCP4021 specifically refers to the potentiometer configuration in an 8-pin package, distinct from the rheostat configurations (MCP4022/4) or smaller SOT-23 packages (MCP4023).

Replacement Considerations

Direct pin-compatible replacements within the same family include MCP4021-102E/SN (10 kΩ) and MCP4021-503E/SN (50 kΩ), provided the resistance value change is acceptable. Other variants like MCP4022 share the same package but function as rheostats.