MCP4431T-502E/ST

Digital Potentiometers Overview

The MCP4431T-502E/ST is a quad digital potentiometer IC featuring four independent potentiometer networks controlled via an I2C serial interface. It provides 7-bit resolution with 129 taps and offers a nominal resistance (RAB) of 5 kΩ. The device operates within a supply voltage range of 1.8V to 5.5V, though analog characteristics are specified from 2.7V to 5.5V. It includes high-voltage tolerant digital inputs up to 12.5V, a reset input pin, and brown-out reset protection. The component utilizes volatile RAM for wiper settings and is housed in a TSSOP-20 package.

Digital Potentiometers Feature Summary

• Quad Resistor Network: Four independent potentiometers with 7-bit resolution (129 taps).
• I2C Serial Interface: Supports Standard Mode (100 kHz), Fast Mode (400 kHz), and High-Speed modes (up to 3.4 MHz).
• High-Voltage Inputs: Digital inputs (HVC/A0, SCL, SDA, A1, RESET) tolerate voltages up to 12.5V.
• Terminal Disconnect: Features a Terminal Control (TCON) register to disconnect resistor network terminals.

Digital Potentiometers Applications

• Split rail applications requiring high-voltage tolerant control interfaces.
• Systems utilizing I2C buses operating at standard, fast, or high-speed frequencies.
• Circuits requiring programmable resistance adjustment with volatile memory retention during power cycles.

Digital Potentiometers Procurement Notes

Verify the specific ordering suffix 'T' indicates tape and reel packaging when sourcing components. Confirm that the '502' code corresponds to the 5 kΩ resistance value. Ensure the 'E' designation aligns with RoHS compliance requirements for the target assembly process.

Digital Potentiometers Selection Notes

Select this model for designs requiring four independent potentiometer channels controlled by a single I2C master. The 5 kΩ resistance value suits moderate current applications. Note that the device uses volatile memory; wiper positions will reset to mid-scale upon power-up unless maintained by external circuitry or reprogrammed immediately after initialization.

Digital Potentiometers Part Context

This component belongs to the MCP443X/5X family of 7/8-bit volatile quad digital potentiometers. The '3' in the part number designates the 7-bit resolution variant, distinguishing it from the 8-bit MCP445X series. The '1' suffix indicates a potentiometer configuration, whereas '2' would denote a rheostat configuration.

Digital Potentiometers Replacement Considerations

Direct replacements within the same family include the MCP4432-502E/ST for rheostat configurations. For higher resolution needs, the MCP4451-502E/ST offers 8-bit resolution. Non-volatile alternatives in the series include the MCP4441 and MCP4461 models.