MCP4262-502E/MF

Digital Potentiometers Overview

The MCP4262-502E/MF is a dual-channel, 8-bit non-volatile digital potentiometer manufactured by Microchip Technology. It features two independent rheostat configurations with a nominal resistance (R_AB) of 5 kΩ and ±20% tolerance. The device provides 257 discrete wiper positions controlled via a high-speed SPI serial interface operating up to 10 MHz at VDD ≥ 2.7V. Key specifications include a typical supply current of 450 µA, a wide operating voltage range of 2.7V to 5.5V, and an extended temperature range from -40°C to +125°C. It incorporates WiperLock™ technology for secure calibration storage in Data EEPROM.

Digital Potentiometers Feature Summary

• Dual 8-bit Non-Volatile Rheostats: Two independent resistor networks with 257 taps and NV memory for automatic wiper recall.
• High-Speed SPI Interface: Supports 10 MHz operation in modes 0,0 and 1,1 with hardware write protect (WP) and shutdown (SHDN) capabilities.
• WiperLock™ Technology: Allows application-specific calibration settings to be secured in the EEPROM against unauthorized modification.
• High Voltage Tolerant Inputs: Digital inputs (CS, SCK, SDI, WP, SHDN) tolerate voltages up to 12.5V, supporting split-rail applications.

Digital Potentiometers Applications

• Industrial process control systems requiring precise analog gain or offset adjustment.
• Audio equipment for volume control and tone shaping using variable resistors.
• Test and measurement instrumentation for programmable attenuation or biasing.
• Automotive electronics utilizing high-voltage tolerant interfaces for robust signal conditioning.

Digital Potentiometers Procurement Notes

Verify the package marking and date code against the manufacturer's latest documentation to ensure authenticity. Confirm that the specific suffix 'MF' corresponds to the DFN-10-EP (3x3) package variant required for your PCB layout. Check for RoHS compliance status as indicated in the official datasheet revision history.

Digital Potentiometers Selection Notes

Select this component when dual isolated variable resistors are needed without potentiometer terminals. Ensure the system voltage remains within the 2.7V to 5.5V range for full electrical specification compliance. Verify that the SPI controller supports the required clock polarity and phase modes (0,0 or 1,1) for reliable communication.

Digital Potentiometers Part Context

This part belongs to the MCP41X/42X/46X family of SPI digital potentiometers. The '42' designation indicates a dual-resistor network, while '6' specifies 8-bit resolution with non-volatile memory. The '-502' suffix denotes a 5 kΩ nominal resistance value. It serves as the rheostat configuration counterpart to the MCP4261 potentiometer variant.

Digital Potentiometers Replacement Considerations

Direct functional substitutes within the same family include the MCP4261-502E/MF (potentiometer version) or other resistance variants like MCP4262-103E/MF (10 kΩ). Cross-family replacements require verification of pin compatibility and interface protocols.