MCP4251T-502E/ST

Digital Potentiometers Overview

The MCP4251T-502E/ST is a dual-channel digital potentiometer IC from Microchip Technology, featuring volatile memory and an SPI serial interface. It provides two independent potentiometer networks with 8-bit resolution, offering 256 discrete steps (257 taps). The nominal resistance between terminals A and B is 5 kΩ, with a typical wiper resistance of 75 Ω. The device operates within a supply voltage range of 1.8 V to 5.5 V and supports high-voltage tolerant digital inputs up to 12.5 V. It is housed in a 14-pin TSSOP package and functions across an extended temperature range of -40°C to +125°C.

Digital Potentiometers Feature Summary

• Dual Potentiometer Configuration: Contains two independent 8-bit resistor networks with 256 steps each.
• SPI Interface: Supports standard SPI modes (0,0 and 1,1) with clock frequencies up to 10 MHz at VDD ≥ 2.7V.
• High-Voltage Inputs: Digital input pins (CS, SCK, SDI) tolerate voltages up to 12.5 V, enabling compatibility with 5 V logic even when powered by lower voltages.
• Wide Operating Voltage: Functional operation supported from 1.8 V to 5.5 V, with full device characteristics specified from 2.7 V to 5.5 V.

Digital Potentiometers Applications

• Variable gain control in audio and instrumentation amplifiers
• Programmable voltage reference adjustment
• Digital trimming of analog signal paths
• Battery management system calibration

Digital Potentiometers Procurement Notes

Verify the ordering suffix '/ST' corresponds to the TSSOP-14 package and tape-and-reel shipping format as specified in the datasheet. Confirm that the '502' code indicates a 5 kΩ resistance value. Ensure the design accounts for the volatile nature of the wiper settings, which reset to mid-scale upon power-up.

Digital Potentiometers Selection Notes

Select this component when dual independent digital potentiometers are required with SPI control. The 8-bit resolution provides 256 steps, suitable for applications requiring finer adjustment than 7-bit devices. Note that this model uses volatile RAM; if non-volatile storage is needed for wiper positions after power loss, consider the MCP4261 variant instead.

Digital Potentiometers Part Context

This part belongs to the MCP41XX/42XX family of single and dual SPI digital potentiometers. The 'MCP4251' designation specifically identifies it as a dual potentiometer with 8-bit resolution and volatile memory. The 'T' indicates a tape-and-reel packaging option, while '/ST' denotes the TSSOP-14 package type.

Digital Potentiometers Replacement Considerations

For direct pin-compatible replacement with identical specifications, use MCP4251T-502E/ML (MSOP-10) or MCP4251-502E/SN (SOIC-14), ensuring the package footprint matches the PCB design. For non-volatile requirements, substitute with MCP4261T-502E/ST.