MCP4451-503E/ST

Digital Potentiometers Overview

The MCP4451-503E/ST is a quad digital potentiometer IC manufactured by Microchip Technology. It features four independent resistor networks with 8-bit resolution, providing 257 taps per channel. The nominal resistance is 50 kΩ with a ±20% tolerance. The device operates on an I²C serial interface and utilizes volatile RAM for wiper storage. It supports a wide operating voltage range of 1.8V to 5.5V and includes high-voltage tolerant inputs up to 12.5V.

Digital Potentiometers Feature Summary

• Quad Resistor Network: Four independent channels configurable as potentiometers or rheostats.
• High Resolution: 8-bit architecture offering 256 selectable resistors (257 taps).
• I²C Interface: Supports Standard Mode (100 kHz), Fast Mode (400 kHz), and High-Speed modes up to 3.4 MHz.
• High-Voltage Tolerance: Digital inputs tolerate voltages up to 12.5V, enabling split-rail applications.

Digital Potentiometers Applications

• Precision resistor network control in industrial systems.
• Sensor signal conditioning and adjustment.
• Audio volume control and gain adjustment.
• Power supply voltage regulation and monitoring.

Digital Potentiometers Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix 'E/ST' corresponds to the TSSOP-20 package and lead-free RoHS compliance when sourcing. Confirm that the application design accounts for the volatile memory nature of the MCP4451, requiring state restoration upon power-up if retention is critical.

Digital Potentiometers Selection Notes

Select this model for applications requiring four independent 50kΩ adjustable resistors controlled via I²C. Ensure the system voltage falls within the 1.8V to 5.5V operational range. Consider the MCP4461 series if non-volatile memory retention is required instead of volatile RAM.

Digital Potentiometers Part Context

This component belongs to the MCP443X/5X family of 7/8-bit digital potentiometers. The '5' in the part number indicates 8-bit resolution (257 taps), distinguishing it from the 7-bit MCP443X variants. The '1' suffix denotes a quad potentiometer configuration, whereas '2' would indicate a quad rheostat.

Digital Potentiometers Replacement Considerations

The MCP4451-503E/ML is a pin-compatible alternative available in a 20-QFN package. For non-volatile requirements, the MCP4461-503E/ST serves as a functional substitute with EEPROM storage.