MCP41010-I/P

Overview

The MCP41010-I/P is a single-channel, volatile digital potentiometer manufactured by Microchip Technology. It features an end-to-end resistance of 10 kΩ with 256 linear 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 from -40°C to +85°C. Key electrical characteristics include a maximum static supply current of 1 µA, ±1 LSB max INL & DNL, and a typical wiper resistance of 52 Ω at 5V. Upon power-up, the wiper resets to the mid-scale position (Code 80h).

Feature Summary

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

Applications

• Audio volume and tone control circuits.
• Programmable gain amplifiers (PGA) in sensor interfaces.
• Servo motor speed and position control.
• Battery charging current regulation.
• LCD contrast adjustment.

Procurement Notes

Verify the package type matches the 'P' suffix for PDIP-8 when ordering. Confirm the temperature grade corresponds to the '-I' designation for industrial range (-40°C to +85°C). Ensure the resistance value aligns with system requirements, as other variants like MCP41050 offer 50 kΩ. Check datasheet DS11195C for specific pinout and electrical limits.

Selection Notes

Select this component for applications requiring precise, software-controlled resistance adjustment without mechanical wear. The 10 kΩ value suits moderate impedance circuits; use MCP41050 or MCP41100 for higher resistance needs. Consider the volatile memory nature, as settings are lost upon power loss. Ensure the host microcontroller supports SPI communication with appropriate voltage levels for VDD.

Part Context

This part belongs to the MCP41XXX/42XXX family of digital potentiometers. The MCP41XXX series denotes single-channel devices, while MCP42XXX offers dual channels. The 'I' indicates industrial temperature rating, and 'P' specifies the PDIP package. Other options include SOIC packages ('SN') and extended temperature ranges ('E').

Replacement Considerations

Direct substitutes within the same family include MCP41010T-I/SN (SOIC package) or MCP41010-E/P (extended temperature). For different resistance values, consider MCP41050 (50 kΩ) or MCP41100 (100 kΩ). Dual-channel equivalents are MCP42010, MCP42050, or MCP42100.