MCP4021T-202E/MS

Overview

The MCP4021T-202E/MS is a nonvolatile, 6-bit digital potentiometer manufactured by Microchip Technology in an 8-pin MSOP package. It features a nominal resistance of 2.1 kΩ with 64 taps and ±20% tolerance. The device operates on a supply voltage range of 2.7V to 5.5V and draws a maximum static current of 1 µA. It utilizes a simple Up/Down (U/D) serial interface for control and incorporates WiperLock™ technology to store wiper settings in EEPROM without requiring a dedicated write-protect pin.

Feature Summary

• WiperLock™ Technology: Stores the wiper setting in nonvolatile EEPROM upon power-down, recalling it automatically at power-up.
• High-Voltage Tolerant Inputs: Digital inputs (CS and U/D) are tolerant up to 12.5V, allowing direct interfacing with higher voltage logic levels.
• Low Power Consumption: Maximum static current is 1 µA when the serial interface is inactive.
• Wide Operating Range: Supports supply voltages from 2.7V to 5.5V and operates across an extended temperature range of –40°C to +125°C.

Applications

• Audio volume control and tone adjustment circuits
• Variable gain amplifier biasing
• Voltage reference trimming
• LED brightness control

Procurement Notes

Verify the ordering suffix 'T' indicates tape-and-reel packaging and '/MS' denotes the 8-lead MSOP package. Confirm the '-202' suffix corresponds to the 2.1 kΩ resistance value. Ensure the 'E' suffix meets the required extended temperature specifications (-40°C to +125°C). Cross-reference the datasheet DS20001945F for specific electrical characteristics relevant to your application.

Selection Notes

Select this component if a single-channel digital potentiometer with nonvolatile memory is required. The 2.1 kΩ resistance value suits applications needing lower impedance compared to standard 10 kΩ or 50 kΩ variants. The U/D interface simplifies control logic by eliminating clock lines. Consider the 75 Ω typical wiper resistance and bandwidth limitations when designing high-speed signal paths.

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 available in SOIC, MSOP, DFN, and SOT-23 packages. Other family members include the MCP4022 (Rheostat), MCP4023 (Potentiometer), and MCP4024 (Rheostat), which share similar electrical characteristics but differ in terminal configurations.

Replacement Considerations

Direct replacements within the same package and functionality include other MCP4021 variants with different resistance values (e.g., MCP4021-502E/MS for 5 kΩ). For rheostat configurations, the MCP4022 series may be suitable if terminal B is left unconnected. Verify that any substitute maintains the 12.5V input tolerance and nonvolatile memory feature.