MCP4142-502E/MS

Digital Potentiometers Overview

The MCP4142-502E/MS is a single-channel digital rheostat manufactured by Microchip Technology. It features a 7-bit resolution providing 129 tap positions and a nominal resistance (R_AB) of 5 kΩ with ±20% tolerance. The device utilizes non-volatile EEPROM memory to retain wiper settings, supported by WiperLock™ technology for calibration security. It operates on a single supply voltage ranging from 2.7V to 5.5V, with serial interface logic tolerant up to 12.5V. Key electrical parameters include a typical wiper resistance of 75 Ω, a bandwidth of 2 MHz at 5 kΩ, and an operating temperature range of -40°C to +125°C.

Digital Potentiometers Feature Summary

• Non-volatile Memory: Stores wiper settings in Data EEPROM with automatic recall upon power-up.
• High-Voltage Inputs: Digital control pins (CS, SCK, SDI, WP, SHDN) tolerate voltages up to 12.5V.
• WiperLock™ Technology: Allows application-specific calibration settings to be secured in the EEPROM.
• Terminal Disconnect: Supports resistor network terminal disconnect via Shutdown pin or TCON Register.

Digital Potentiometers Applications

• Gain adjustment in audio and instrumentation circuits
• Variable voltage reference generation
• Programmable filter frequency tuning
• Calibration of sensor signal conditioning

Digital Potentiometers Procurement Notes

Verify the ordering suffix 'MS' corresponds to the MSOP-8 package when sourcing components. Confirm that the specific revision matches the required thermal and electrical specifications for the target environment. Ensure compatibility with the host system's SPI voltage levels, noting the high-voltage tolerant inputs allow for mixed-voltage operation.

Digital Potentiometers Selection Notes

Select this model for applications requiring a single-channel variable resistor with persistent state retention. The 5 kΩ value suits moderate impedance networks. For potentiometer configurations instead of rheostats, consider the MCP4141 variant. If dual-channel control is needed, the MCP4242 series is appropriate. Verify that the 7-bit resolution meets the precision requirements of the circuit design.

Digital Potentiometers Part Context

This component belongs to the MCP414X family of 7/8-bit single/dual SPI digital potentiometers with non-volatile memory. The '4' indicates the 7-bit resolution (129 steps), while the '2' denotes the single rheostat configuration. The '502' suffix specifies the 5 kΩ resistance value. The 'E' indicates RoHS compliance, and 'MS' identifies the MSOP-8 surface-mount package.

Digital Potentiometers Replacement Considerations

Direct functional replacements within the same family include the MCP4141-502E/MS (potentiometer version) or other packages like the SOIC-8 variant MCP4142-502E/SN. Cross-family replacements such as the MCP4162 offer higher 8-bit resolution but may require software adjustments for step count differences.