MCP4452T-104E/ST

Digital Potentiometers Overview

The MCP4452T-104E/ST is a quad rheostat digital potentiometer IC manufactured by Microchip Technology. It features four independent resistor networks with 8-bit resolution, providing 256 taps per channel. The nominal resistance (RAB) is 100 kΩ, selected via the '104' suffix. Communication is handled through an I²C serial interface supporting standard, fast, and high-speed modes up to 3.4 MHz. The device operates on a supply voltage of 2.7V to 5.5V for specified characteristics, extending down to 1.8V for operation. It utilizes volatile RAM memory, resetting wipers to mid-scale upon power-up.

Digital Potentiometers Feature Summary

• Quad Rheostat Configuration: Four independent variable resistors with 8-bit (256 tap) resolution.
• I²C Interface: Supports 100 kHz, 400 kHz, and 3.4 MHz clock frequencies with high-voltage tolerant inputs up to 12.5V.
• Terminal Disconnect: Includes a Terminal Control (TCON) register to disconnect resistor network terminals.
• Low Power Consumption: Typical inactive current of 2.5 µA and internal weak pull-ups on digital inputs.

Digital Potentiometers Applications

• Audio volume control and tone adjustment circuits
• Programmable gain amplifiers and sensor biasing
• Voltage reference trimming and calibration systems

Digital Potentiometers Procurement Notes

Verify the specific ordering suffix against the manufacturer's documentation to confirm package type and tape/reel specifications. Ensure the design accounts for the volatile nature of the memory, as wiper settings are lost upon power loss. Confirm that the 100 kΩ resistance value aligns with the target circuit impedance requirements.

Digital Potentiometers Selection Notes

Select this component when a quad rheostat configuration is required rather than a potentiometer setup. The 100 kΩ resistance value suits applications requiring higher impedance levels compared to the 5 kΩ or 10 kΩ variants. Verify that the system can tolerate the mid-scale reset state at power-on, as non-volatile memory is not available in this model.

Digital Potentiometers Part Context

This part belongs to the MCP443X/5X family of 7/8-bit volatile quad digital potentiometers. The '5' in the model number indicates 8-bit resolution (257 taps), while the '2' denotes the quad rheostat configuration. It shares the same pinout and interface protocols as the MCP4451 (potentiometer version) but differs in terminal connectivity.

Digital Potentiometers Replacement Considerations

The MCP4451-104E/ST is a functional substitute if a potentiometer configuration is acceptable. For lower resolution needs, the MCP4432 series offers 7-bit resolution. Non-volatile alternatives such as the MCP4462 series provide similar functionality with EEPROM storage.