MCP4162-104E/MS

Digital Potentiometers Overview

The MCP4162-104E/MS is a single-channel digital potentiometer IC manufactured by Microchip Technology, housed in an 8-lead MSOP package. It features a non-volatile resistor network with a total resistance (R_AB) of 100 kΩ and 8-bit resolution, providing 257 discrete tap positions. The device operates as a rheostat configuration and communicates via a high-speed SPI serial interface supporting up to 10 MHz at VDD ≥ 2.7V. It includes WiperLock™ technology for secure calibration settings stored in Data EEPROM.

Digital Potentiometers Feature Summary

• Non-volatile memory with WiperLock™ technology for automatic recall of wiper settings upon power-up.
• SPI serial interface compatible with modes 0,0 and 1,1, allowing high-speed read/write operations to wiper registers and Data EEPROM.
• High-voltage tolerant digital inputs capable of withstanding up to 12.5V, facilitating split-rail applications.
• Integrated terminal disconnect feature accessible via the SHDN pin or TCON register.

Digital Potentiometers Applications

• Gain control in audio processing circuits
• Voltage reference adjustment in measurement systems
• Calibration of sensor signal conditioning paths

Digital Potentiometers Procurement Notes

Verify the specific ordering suffix 'MS' corresponds to the MSOP-8 package when sourcing components. Confirm that the '-104' designation matches the required 100 kΩ resistance value for the application. Ensure the 'E' suffix indicates the extended industrial temperature range (-40°C to +125°C) if operating conditions require it.

Digital Potentiometers Selection Notes

Select this component for applications requiring persistent resistance settings without external battery backup. The 100 kΩ resistance value suits low-current signal paths. Verify that the system voltage remains within the 2.7V to 5.5V specified range for full analog performance, noting that the serial interface functions down to 1.8V.

Digital Potentiometers Part Context

This part belongs to the MCP41XX family of single digital potentiometers. Unlike volatile counterparts such as the MCP4132, the MCP4162 retains its wiper position after power loss due to integrated EEPROM. It shares the same physical footprint and pinout as other variants in the MCP414X/416X series, differing primarily in memory type and resolution.

Digital Potentiometers Replacement Considerations

The MCP4142-104E/MS serves as a direct functional substitute, offering identical specifications but with 7-bit resolution (129 steps) instead of 8-bit. Other family members like the MCP4161 offer potentiometer configurations rather than rheostat setups.