MCP4441-502E/ML

Digital Potentiometers Overview

The MCP4241-502E/ML is a dual-channel, 7-bit nonvolatile digital potentiometer manufactured by Microchip Technology. It features an I2C serial interface and offers five general-purpose memory locations for wiper settings. The device supports split-rail applications with high-voltage tolerant digital inputs up to 12.5V. Operating within a supply voltage range of 2.7V to 5.5V, it provides linear resistance options including 5kΩ, 10kΩ, 50kΩ, and 100kΩ. The component utilizes WiperLock technology to retain settings without power and includes terminal disconnect capabilities via the TCON register.

Digital Potentiometers Feature Summary

• Dual-channel 7-bit resolution with 129 taps and nonvolatile memory retention
• I2C serial interface supporting 100 kHz, 400 kHz, and 3.4 MHz speeds
• High-voltage tolerant digital inputs (up to 12.5V) enabling split-rail operation
• WiperLock technology and five general-purpose EEPROM memory locations

Digital Potentiometers Applications

• Audio volume control and tone adjustment circuits
• Programmable gain amplifiers and sensor biasing
• LCD contrast and backlight brightness regulation
• Calibration of reference voltages in measurement systems

Digital Potentiometers Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix 'ML' corresponds to the 4x4 QFN-20 package when sourcing. Confirm that the '-502' designation matches the required 5kΩ resistance value for the application. Ensure the design accommodates the 2.7V minimum operating voltage specified for the nonvolatile variant.

Digital Potentiometers Selection Notes

Select this model over volatile counterparts if power-down state retention is required. Verify that the system's I2C bus speed does not exceed the device's maximum supported frequency at the chosen supply voltage. Check pin compatibility against the TSSOP-14 or TSSOP-20 packages if board space constraints differ from the QFN footprint.

Digital Potentiometers Part Context

This component belongs to the MCP444X family of quad digital potentiometers. While the MCP4441 features four channels, the MCP4241 provides two channels in a similar form factor. Both share the same nonvolatile architecture, I2C interface, and WiperLock technology, allowing for functional substitution where channel count permits.

Digital Potentiometers Replacement Considerations

Public confirmed substitute part numbers include MCP4241-102E/ML (10kΩ), MCP4241-503E/ML (50kΩ), and MCP4241-104E/ML (100kΩ). These variants maintain identical pinouts and functionality while differing only in total resistance.