MCP4241-502E/ST

Digital Potentiometers Overview

The MCP4241-502E/ST is a dual-channel digital potentiometer IC manufactured by Microchip Technology. It features two independent 7-bit resistor networks with 129 adjustable tap positions, providing precise resistance control. The nominal end-to-end resistance (R_AB) is 5 kΩ with a ±20% tolerance. The device utilizes non-volatile EEPROM memory to retain wiper settings and supports an SPI serial interface operating at frequencies up to 10 MHz. It operates within a supply voltage range of 2.7V to 5.5V and includes high-voltage tolerant digital inputs capable of withstanding up to 12.5V.

Digital Potentiometers Feature Summary

• Dual 7-bit Digital Potentiometers: Two independent channels with 129 resistive steps and 5 kΩ nominal resistance.
• Non-Volatile Memory: Integrated EEPROM retains wiper settings upon power loss, featuring WiperLock™ technology for security.
• SPI Interface: Supports standard SPI modes (0,0 and 1,1) with clock speeds up to 10 MHz for high-speed read/write operations.
• High-Voltage Inputs: Digital input pins (CS, SCK, SDI, WP, SHDN) are tolerant to voltages up to 12.5V.

Digital Potentiometers Applications

• Audio volume control and tone adjustment circuits
• Programmable gain amplifiers and sensor signal conditioning
• Voltage reference trimming and calibration systems
• Industrial process control loop adjustments

Digital Potentiometers Procurement Notes

Verify the package type 'ST' corresponds to TSSOP-14 as indicated in distributor specifications for this suffix variant. Confirm the 'E' suffix denotes RoHS compliance and lead-free manufacturing. Ensure the specific revision level matches the design requirements, as datasheet revisions may update electrical characteristics or pinout details.

Digital Potentiometers Selection Notes

Select this component when dual-channel resistance adjustment with non-volatile retention is required. The 5 kΩ value suits moderate current applications; higher resistance options (10k, 50k, 100k) are available in the same family if lower current draw is needed. Verify that the 129-step resolution meets the application's precision needs compared to 8-bit (257-step) alternatives like the MCP4261.

Digital Potentiometers Part Context

This part belongs to the MCP414X/416X/424X/426X family of SPI digital potentiometers. The '42' prefix indicates a dual-potentiometer configuration with non-volatile memory. The '-502' code specifies the 5 kΩ resistance value. It is functionally similar to the MCP4241-502E/ML but differs in the surface-mount package style (TSSOP vs MSOP).

Digital Potentiometers Replacement Considerations

Direct pin-compatible replacements include other packages of the same part number (e.g., MCP4241-502E/MS). For functional equivalents with different packages, verify pinout compatibility. Cross-model substitutes like MCP4261 offer higher resolution (8-bit) but require checking voltage and interface compatibility.