MCP4231T-503E/SL

Digital Potentiometers Overview

The MCP4231T-503E/SL is a dual-channel, 7-bit digital potentiometer from Microchip Technology. It features two independent resistor networks with 129 taps and a nominal resistance of 50 kΩ. The device operates on an SPI serial interface at frequencies up to 10 MHz and utilizes volatile memory for wiper settings. Key electrical characteristics include a typical wiper resistance of 75 Ω, a supply voltage range of 1.8V to 5.5V, and high-voltage tolerant digital inputs up to 12.5V. It supports both potentiometer and rheostat configurations within an extended temperature range of -40°C to +125°C.

Digital Potentiometers Feature Summary

• Dual Resistor Network: Contains two independent 7-bit (129-step) resistor networks with 50 kΩ nominal resistance.
• SPI Interface: Supports high-speed read/write operations via SPI at 10 MHz (modes 0,0 and 1,1).
• High-Voltage Inputs: Digital input pins (CS, SCK, SDI, SHDN) tolerate voltages up to 12.5V.
• Terminal Disconnect: Includes a shutdown pin (SHDN) and Terminal Control (TCON) register for disconnecting resistor network terminals.

Digital Potentiometers Applications

• Programmable gain amplifiers requiring remote calibration.
• Voltage reference adjustment in data acquisition systems.
• Digital control of analog signal paths in industrial instrumentation.

Digital Potentiometers Procurement Notes

Verify the ordering suffix 'SL' corresponds to the SOIC-14 package when sourcing. Confirm that the 'T' designation indicates tape and reel packaging if required for automated assembly. Ensure the specific revision matches the DS22060B datasheet documentation.

Digital Potentiometers Selection Notes

Select this component for applications requiring dual-channel digital adjustment without non-volatile storage needs. The 7-bit resolution provides 128 steps, suitable for moderate precision adjustments. Verify that the system logic levels are compatible with the 1.8V to 5.5V operating range and that the 12.5V tolerant inputs meet the interface requirements.

Digital Potentiometers Part Context

This part belongs to the MCP413X/415X/423X/425X family of single/dual SPI digital potentiometers. The MCP4231 specifically denotes a dual potentiometer variant with 7-bit resolution and volatile RAM. It shares the same core architecture as the 8-bit MCP4251 but offers fewer adjustment steps.

Digital Potentiometers Replacement Considerations

Direct functional substitutes within the same family include the MCP4231-503E/ST (TSSOP package) or MCP4231-503E/P (PDIP package). For higher resolution, the MCP4251-503E series offers 8-bit (257 steps) operation with identical pinouts and interfaces.

Digital Potentiometers FAQ

What is the default wiper position upon power-up?

Upon Power-On Reset (POR) or Brown-Out Reset (BOR), the wipers initialize to the mid-scale position (40h hex for 7-bit devices).

Can the digital inputs withstand voltages higher than VDD?

Yes, the CS, SCK, SDI, and SHDN pins are high-voltage tolerant and can withstand up to 12.5V, even if VDD is lower.

Does this device retain settings after power loss?

No, the MCP4231 uses volatile RAM. Wiper settings are lost when power is removed and must be reloaded upon the next power cycle.