MCP4441T-502E/ML

Digital Potentiometers Overview

The MCP4441T-502E/ML is a quad resistor network digital potentiometer IC manufactured by Microchip Technology. It features four independent potentiometers with nonvolatile memory and WiperLock technology, retaining wiper settings after power loss. The device utilizes an I2C serial interface supporting standard (100 kHz), fast (400 kHz), and high-speed modes. Each channel offers 7-bit resolution with 129 taps and a nominal resistance of 5 kΩ. Operating voltages range from 2.7V to 5.5V for full specifications, with the serial interface functional down to 1.8V. The component includes hardware write protection, terminal disconnect features, and operates within an extended temperature range of -40°C to +125°C.

Digital Potentiometers Feature Summary

• Quad Potentiometer Network: Four independent channels with 7-bit resolution (129 taps) and 5 kΩ nominal resistance.
• Nonvolatile Memory: Stores wiper positions using EEPROM with WiperLock technology for automatic recall upon power-up.
• High-Voltage Tolerant Inputs: Digital inputs (HVC/A0, SDA, SCL, etc.) tolerate up to 12.5V, enabling split-rail applications.
• I2C Interface: Supports 100 kHz, 400 kHz, and 3.4 MHz clock speeds with hardware and software write protect options.

Digital Potentiometers Applications

• Audio volume control and tone adjustment in consumer electronics
• Gain setting for operational amplifiers in instrumentation systems
• Voltage reference trimming in precision measurement equipment
• Bias current adjustment in LED driver circuits

Digital Potentiometers Procurement Notes

Verify the package designation 'ML' corresponds to the 4x4 QFN-20 housing as specified in the datasheet. Confirm that the 'T' suffix indicates tape-and-reel packaging suitable for automated assembly. Ensure the ordering code matches the specific resistance value (-502 for 5 kΩ) and the nonvolatile memory variant (MCP4441). Cross-reference the manufacturer's latest documentation for any pinout or electrical characteristic updates.

Digital Potentiometers Selection Notes

Select this component when a quad-channel digital potentiometer with persistent memory settings is required. The 5 kΩ resistance value suits low-power signal conditioning applications. The high-voltage tolerant inputs allow direct interfacing with higher voltage logic levels without level shifting. Consider the 4x4 QFN-20 package constraints regarding thermal dissipation and PCB footprint availability during layout design.

Digital Potentiometers Part Context

This part belongs to the MCP444X family of quad I2C digital potentiometers. The '41' designation identifies it as a potentiometer configuration with nonvolatile memory, distinguishing it from volatile RAM variants (MCP443X) or rheostat configurations (MCP4442). The '502' suffix specifies the 5 kΩ resistance value, while 'ML' denotes the QFN-20 package type.

Digital Potentiometers Replacement Considerations

Direct replacements within the same family include MCP4441-502E/ST (TSSOP-20) or MCP4441-502E/ML (tube packaging). For different resolutions, the MCP4461 series offers 8-bit resolution with similar nonvolatile features. Ensure pin compatibility and package dimensions match the existing board layout when substituting.