MCP4162-104E/SN

Digital Potentiometers Overview

The MCP4162-104E/SN is a single-channel, non-volatile digital rheostat manufactured by Microchip Technology. It features an 8-bit resolution providing 256 discrete taps and a nominal resistance of 100 kΩ between terminals A and B. The device operates on a supply voltage range of 2.7V to 5.5V and utilizes a high-speed SPI serial interface for data communication. Key specifications include a typical wiper resistance of 75 Ω, low temperature coefficients (50 ppm/°C absolute), and WiperLock™ technology for secure storage of calibration settings in Data EEPROM. It is housed in an 8-pin SOIC package.

Digital Potentiometers Feature Summary

• Non-volatile memory with WiperLock™ technology for automatic recall of saved wiper settings
• SPI serial interface supporting modes 0,0 and 1,1 with frequencies up to 10 MHz
• High-voltage tolerant digital inputs capable of withstanding up to 12.5V
• Hardware and software write protect features via WP pin and configuration bits

Digital Potentiometers Applications

• Calibration of sensor circuits requiring stable, non-volatile gain adjustments
• Programmable gain amplifiers in instrumentation systems
• Voltage reference trimming in precision measurement equipment
• Audio volume control applications utilizing rheostat configuration

Digital Potentiometers Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix 'SN' corresponds to the 8-lead Small Outline Integrated Circuit (SOIC) package when sourcing components. Confirm that the ordering code includes the '-104E' designation to ensure the 100 kΩ resistance value and industrial temperature grade are met. Cross-reference the datasheet revision DS22059B to ensure compatibility with current manufacturing standards.

Digital Potentiometers Selection Notes

Select this component over potentiometer variants (e.g., MCP4161) when a two-terminal variable resistor configuration is required rather than a three-terminal voltage divider. Ensure the application circuit respects the maximum current limits of 2.5 mA through the resistor network terminals. Verify that the system's SPI controller supports the required clock speeds and mode settings for reliable communication.

Digital Potentiometers Part Context

This part belongs to the MCP41XX/MCP42XX family of 7/8-bit SPI digital potentiometers with non-volatile memory. The '62' in the model number indicates a single rheostat configuration with 8-bit resolution. The '104' suffix denotes the 100 kΩ resistance value, while 'E' signifies the extended industrial temperature range (-40°C to +125°C).

Digital Potentiometers Replacement Considerations

Direct functional replacements within the same family include other MCP4162 variants with different packages (e.g., MCP4162-104E/P for PDIP or MCP4162-104E/MS for MSOP) provided the pinout remains compatible. For rheostat applications requiring lower resistance values, consider the MCP4162-503E/SN (50 kΩ) or MCP4162-103E/SN (10 kΩ).