MCP4161T-502E/SN

Digital Potentiometers Overview

The MCP4161T-502E/SN is a single-channel, non-volatile digital potentiometer from Microchip Technology. It features an 8-bit resolution providing 257 taps and a nominal resistance (R_AB) of 5 kΩ with ±20% tolerance. The device operates on a supply voltage range of 2.7V to 5.5V for full analog specifications, supporting serial interface operation down to 1.8V. It utilizes an SPI interface with high-voltage tolerant inputs up to 12.5V. Key features include WiperLock™ technology for non-volatile memory retention, a typical wiper resistance of 75 Ω, and a bandwidth of 2 MHz. It is housed in an 8-pin SOIC package.

Digital Potentiometers Feature Summary

• Non-volatile Memory: WiperLock™ technology retains the last wiper setting upon power-up via Data EEPROM.
• High-Voltage Inputs: Digital input pins (CS, SCK, SDI, WP, SHDN) tolerate voltages up to 12.5V.
• SPI Interface: Supports standard SPI modes 0,0 and 1,1 with clock frequencies up to 10 MHz at V_DD ≥ 2.7V.
• Low Power: Typical serial interface inactive current is 2.5 µA; Brown-out reset protection included.

Digital Potentiometers Applications

• Embedded systems requiring programmable gain or attenuation with power-down state retention.
• Audio volume control and tone adjustment circuits.
• Sensor biasing and calibration adjustments in industrial instrumentation.
• Voltage reference trimming and adjustable threshold settings.

Digital Potentiometers Procurement Notes

Verify the 'T' suffix indicates tape-and-reel packaging and 'SN' denotes the SOIC-8 package. Confirm the '-502' code specifies the 5 kΩ resistance value. Ensure the source document matches DS22059B for accurate electrical parameters. Check for RoHS compliance status as per manufacturer updates.

Digital Potentiometers Selection Notes

Select this component when non-volatile wiper position retention is required after power loss. Choose the 5 kΩ variant if the application demands lower thermal noise compared to higher resistance options. Ensure the system SPI clock does not exceed 10 MHz for V_DD between 2.7V and 5.5V. Verify that the 12.5V tolerant inputs align with the host controller's logic levels.

Digital Potentiometers Part Context

This part belongs to the MCP41XX series of single-channel digital potentiometers. It is functionally similar to the MCP4161 but differs in packaging ('T' suffix for reel). It shares the same core architecture as the MCP4141 but offers extended voltage operation starting from 1.8V for digital interfaces. The device is part of a broader family including dual-channel (MCP42XX) and volatile memory variants.

Digital Potentiometers Replacement Considerations

Direct pin-compatible replacements within the same package include other MCP4161 variants with different resistance codes (e.g., -103 for 10 kΩ). For non-volatile single-channel alternatives, consider the MCP4141, though it lacks the 1.8V digital interface support. Volatile equivalents like the MCP4151 do not retain settings across power cycles.