MCP4461-103E/ST

Digital Potentiometers Overview

The MCP4461-103E/ST is a quad digital potentiometer IC featuring four independent resistor networks with nonvolatile memory. It provides 8-bit resolution, offering 257 taps for precise resistance adjustment. The nominal resistance between terminals A and B is 10 kΩ (suffix -103). The device operates on a single supply voltage ranging from 2.7V to 5.5V and communicates via an I²C serial interface supporting standard, fast, and high-speed modes up to 3.4 MHz. It includes WiperLock™ technology for automatic recall of wiper settings upon power-up.

Digital Potentiometers Feature Summary

• Quad Resistor Network: Four independent potentiometers with 8-bit (257 tap) resolution.
• Nonvolatile Memory: Stores wiper settings using EEPROM with WiperLock™ technology for automatic recall.
• I²C Interface: Supports 100 kHz, 400 kHz, and 3.4 MHz clock frequencies.
• High-Voltage Tolerant Inputs: Digital inputs tolerate voltages up to 12.5V.

Digital Potentiometers Applications

• Audio volume control and tone adjustment
• Programmable gain amplifiers
• Voltage reference trimming
• Sensor biasing and calibration

Digital Potentiometers Procurement Notes

Verify the package marking and datasheet revision when sourcing. Confirm that the specific ordering suffix matches the required pinout and temperature range. Ensure the I²C address configuration pins are correctly set in the hardware design.

Digital Potentiometers Selection Notes

Select this model for applications requiring four independent digital pots with persistent settings. The 10 kΩ resistance value suits moderate current loads. For higher bandwidth requirements, consider lower resistance variants like the 5 kΩ version. Ensure the system voltage stays within the 2.7V to 5.5V operating range.

Digital Potentiometers Part Context

This component belongs to the MCP444X/446X family of quad digital potentiometers. The '6' in the part number indicates the presence of nonvolatile memory (EEPROM), distinguishing it from volatile RAM-based counterparts like the MCP4451. The '1' suffix denotes a potentiometer configuration, as opposed to a rheostat.

Digital Potentiometers Replacement Considerations

MCP4461-103E/ML offers the same electrical characteristics in a QFN-20 package instead of TSSOP-20. MCP4451-103E/ST is a compatible alternative if nonvolatile memory retention is not required.