MCP41010-E/SN

Overview

The MCP41010-E/SN is a single-channel, volatile digital potentiometer manufactured by Microchip Technology. It features an end-to-end resistance of 10 kΩ with 256 discrete tap positions controlled via an SPI serial interface. The device operates on a single supply voltage ranging from 2.7V to 5.5V and supports industrial temperature ranges (-40°C to +85°C). Key electrical characteristics include a maximum static supply current of 1 µA, a typical active supply current of 340 µA at 5.5V, and a wiper resistance of 52 Ω (typical) at 5.5V. The unit utilizes linear taper technology and provides ±1 LSB maximum Integral and Differential Non-Linearity.

Feature Summary

• Single-channel digital potentiometer with 10 kΩ nominal resistance and 256 linear taps
• Industry-standard SPI serial interface supporting Mode 0,0 and Mode 1,1
• Low power CMOS technology with <1 µA maximum static supply current
• Software shutdown feature disconnects Terminal A and connects Wiper to Terminal B

Applications

• Audio volume and tone control circuits
• Servo motor position control systems
• Programmable gain amplifiers and instrumentation offset adjustment
• Battery charging current regulation
• LCD contrast voltage adjustment

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix 'E' indicates the extended temperature range variant (-40°C to +125°C) as per manufacturer documentation, while standard datasheets typically specify the industrial range for this package type. Confirm the SOIC-8 package dimensions match PCB footprint requirements. Ensure the volatile memory nature is accounted for in system design, as settings are lost upon power loss.

Selection Notes

Select the MCP41010-E/SN when a single-channel, 10 kΩ digital potentiometer is required with SPI control. This model is suitable for applications needing low static power consumption (<1 µA) and high linearity (±1/4 LSB typical INL/DNL). Consider the 52 Ω wiper resistance for signal integrity in low-voltage analog paths. Verify that the volatile storage characteristic aligns with application needs, as no non-volatile backup is included.

Part Context

This component belongs to the MCP41XXX family of single-channel digital potentiometers produced by Microchip Technology. It shares architectural similarities with the dual-channel MCP42XXX series but lacks the daisy-chain capability and hardware shutdown/reset pins found in the dual versions. The device is part of a broader portfolio offering 10 kΩ, 50 kΩ, and 100 kΩ resistance values.

Replacement Considerations

Direct functional replacements within the same family include the MCP41010-I/SN (Industrial temperature range) or MCP41010T-I/SN (Tape and reel packaging). For dual-channel requirements, the MCP42010 is the corresponding sibling device.