MCP4242-104E/UN

Digital Potentiometers Overview

The MCP4242-104E/UN is a dual-channel digital potentiometer IC featuring non-volatile memory and an SPI serial interface. It provides two independent rheostat networks, each with 129 taps (7-bit resolution) and a nominal resistance of 100 kΩ. The device operates within a supply voltage range of 2.7V to 5.5V for specified characteristics, extending down to 1.8V for serial interface operation only. Key features include WiperLock™ technology for securing calibration settings, high-voltage tolerant digital inputs up to 12.5V, and a typical wiper resistance of 75 Ω. It supports split-rail applications and includes hardware/software write protect capabilities.

Digital Potentiometers Feature Summary

• Dual Rheostat Configuration: Two independent resistor networks with 129 steps (7-bit resolution).
• Non-Volatile Memory: Stores wiper settings using EEPROM with WiperLock™ technology for security.
• High-Voltage Inputs: Digital control pins tolerate voltages up to 12.5V, supporting mixed-voltage systems.
• SPI Interface: Compatible with standard SPI modes (0,0 and 1,1) operating at frequencies up to 10 MHz.

Digital Potentiometers Applications

• Audio volume control and tone adjustment circuits.
• Programmable gain amplifiers and variable impedance matching.
• Calibration of sensor signals and reference voltage trimming.
• Adjustable biasing in analog front-end modules.

Digital Potentiometers Procurement Notes

Verify the package type matches the 'UN' suffix designation, which corresponds to the MSOP package. Confirm that the application requires a rheostat configuration rather than a potentiometer setup. Ensure the system voltage meets the minimum 2.7V requirement for full analog specification compliance. Check for availability of the specific temperature grade indicated by the 'E' suffix.

Digital Potentiometers Selection Notes

Select this component when dual isolated variable resistors are required with persistent state retention after power loss. The 100 kΩ resistance value suits low-current signal paths. Consider the 75 Ω wiper resistance impact on accuracy for precision applications. Verify that the host microcontroller supports the required SPI clock speeds and pin configurations for CS, SDI, SCK, and SDO.

Digital Potentiometers Part Context

This part belongs to the MCP42XX family of dual digital potentiometers from Microchip Technology. It shares the core architecture with single-pot variants like the MCP4142 and higher-resolution models like the MCP4262. The '104' code specifically denotes the 100 kΩ resistance value, while the 'E' indicates an extended industrial temperature range.

Digital Potentiometers Replacement Considerations

Direct functional substitutes within the same family include the MCP4242T-104E/UN (tape and reel packaging) or the MCP4242-104E/ST (TSSOP package). For rheostat-only applications requiring lower resolution, the MCP4232 series may be considered if non-volatile memory is not required.