MCP4021T-502E/MS

Overview

The MCP4021T-502E/MS is a nonvolatile, 6-bit digital potentiometer manufactured by Microchip Technology in an 8-pin MSOP package. It features WiperLock™ technology for secure EEPROM storage of wiper settings without external write-protect pins. The device operates on a supply voltage (VDD) ranging from 2.7V to 5.5V and supports an extended temperature range of –40°C to +125°C. Key electrical parameters include a nominal resistance (RAB) of 5 kΩ with ±20% tolerance, 64 taps, and a typical wiper resistance (RW) of 70 Ω at 5.5V. It utilizes a simple Up/Down (U/D) serial interface for control.

Feature Summary

• WiperLock™ Technology: Secures application-specific calibration settings in nonvolatile EEPROM automatically upon power-down or high-voltage input detection.
• High-Voltage Tolerant Inputs: CS and U/D inputs tolerate 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; typical operating current is 45 µA at 5.5V.
• Wide Operating Voltage: Supports VDD from 2.7V to 5.5V, suitable for various single-supply applications.

Applications

• Audio volume control and tone adjustment circuits
• Programmable gain amplifiers and variable attenuators
• Voltage reference trimming and offset adjustments
• LCD bias voltage generation

Procurement Notes

Verify the suffix 'MS' confirms the 8-lead Mini Small Outline Package (MSOP). Ensure the 'T' indicates tape-and-reel packaging if required for automated assembly. Confirm the 'E' denotes the extended industrial temperature grade (-40°C to +125°C). Cross-reference the full part number against the manufacturer's latest datasheet DS20001945F to ensure no recent pinout or specification changes.

Selection Notes

Select this component when a single-channel, nonvolatile digital potentiometer with 64 steps is required. The 5 kΩ resistance value suits moderate impedance applications. Choose the MSOP package for space-constrained surface-mount designs. Consider the MCP4022 variant if rheostat configuration is preferred, or other resistance values (2.1k, 10k, 50k) if different impedance ranges are needed.

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 SOIC, MSOP, and DFN packages. It shares core features like WiperLock™ and U/D interface with the MCP4022 (rheostat), MCP4023 (potentiometer in SOT-23-6), and MCP4024 (rheostat in SOT-23-5).

Replacement Considerations

Direct replacements within the same family include MCP4021T-502E/SN (SOIC package) or MCP4021T-502E/MC (DFN package). For rheostat functionality, consider the MCP4022 series. External digital potentiometers may require level shifters unless they also support high-voltage tolerant inputs.