MCP4021T-503E/MS

Overview

The MCP4021T-503E/MS is a nonvolatile, 6-bit digital potentiometer manufactured by Microchip Technology in an 8-pin MSOP package. It features a nominal resistance of 50 kΩ with 64 taps and a linear taper. The device operates on a supply voltage range of 2.7V to 5.5V and utilizes a simple Up/Down (U/D) serial interface for wiper control. Key specifications include a typical wiper resistance of 75 Ω, high-voltage tolerant inputs up to 12.5V, and WiperLock™ technology for secure EEPROM storage. It supports operation across an extended temperature range from -40°C to +125°C.

Feature Summary

• Nonvolatile Memory: Wiper settings are stored in EEPROM via WiperLock™ technology and recalled automatically upon power-up.
• High-Voltage Inputs: CS and U/D pins tolerate voltages up to 12.5V, allowing direct interfacing with higher voltage logic levels.
• Simple Interface: Controlled via a basic two-wire Up/Down protocol without requiring complex clocking or address bits.
• Extended Temperature Range: Rated for industrial applications with operation from -40°C to +125°C.

Applications

• Audio volume control and tone adjustment circuits
• Programmable gain amplifiers and sensor signal conditioning
• Voltage reference trimming and calibration
• LED brightness dimming and backlight control

Procurement Notes

Verify the 'T' suffix indicates tape-and-reel packaging and the 'MS' suffix confirms the 8-lead MSOP package. Confirm the '-503' code corresponds to the 50 kΩ resistance value. Ensure the 'E' suffix meets RoHS compliance requirements for your manufacturing process.

Selection Notes

Select this component when a single-channel digital potentiometer with nonvolatile memory is required. The 50 kΩ value suits moderate impedance applications. The U/D interface is suitable for systems with limited GPIO resources. For rheostat configuration, leave terminal A or B floating as per datasheet guidelines.

Part Context

This part belongs to the MCP4021/2/3/4 family of low-cost nonvolatile digital potentiometers. The MCP4021 variant specifically offers potentiometer functionality, whereas the MCP4022 provides rheostat-only operation. All variants share the same core architecture, WiperLock™ technology, and pinout compatibility within their respective packages.

Replacement Considerations

Direct pin-compatible replacements within the same family include MCP4021T-503E/SN (SOIC package). Other resistance values in the MSOP package include MCP4021T-202E/MS (2.1 kΩ), MCP4021T-502E/MS (5 kΩ), and MCP4021T-103E/MS (10 kΩ).