MCP4462-502E/ST

Digital Potentiometers Overview

The MCP4462-502E/ST is a quad rheostat digital potentiometer IC manufactured by Microchip Technology. It features four independent 8-bit resistor networks with 257 taps, each providing a nominal resistance of 5 kΩ. The device utilizes nonvolatile memory to retain wiper settings and includes WiperLock™ technology for data protection. It communicates via an I²C serial interface supporting standard (100 kHz), fast (400 kHz), and high-speed modes up to 3.4 MHz. Operating voltages range from 2.7 V to 5.5 V for full device characteristics, with serial interface operation down to 1.8 V. The component is housed in a TSSOP-14 package.

Digital Potentiometers Feature Summary

• Quad 8-bit Rheostat Configuration: Four independent channels with 257 taps and 5 kΩ nominal resistance.
• Nonvolatile Memory with WiperLock™: Retains wiper settings and protects against unauthorized changes.
• High-Speed I²C Interface: Supports 100 kHz, 400 kHz, and up to 3.4 MHz clock frequencies.
• High-Voltage Tolerant Inputs: Digital inputs tolerate up to 12.5 V, enabling split-rail applications.

Digital Potentiometers Applications

• Programmable gain amplifiers requiring precise analog signal attenuation.
• Voltage reference trimming in precision measurement systems.
• Audio volume control circuits utilizing low wiper resistance.
• Calibration of sensor bias currents or offsets.

Digital Potentiometers Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix 'E/ST' corresponds to the TSSOP-14 package and commercial temperature grade during sourcing. Confirm that the '502' designation matches the required 5 kΩ resistance value for the circuit design. Ensure the I²C address configuration via the HVC/A0 pin aligns with system bus requirements.

Digital Potentiometers Selection Notes

Select this model over volatile variants (MCP445X) when power-down retention of resistance values is mandatory. Choose the 5 kΩ option (-502) for applications requiring moderate current handling; lower resistance options are available if higher drive capability is needed. Verify that the 75 Ω typical wiper resistance meets the signal integrity requirements of the target application.

Digital Potentiometers Part Context

This component belongs to the MCP444X/446X family of quad digital potentiometers. It is distinguished from the MCP4461 by its rheostat configuration (two terminals per channel) versus the potentiometer configuration (three terminals). It shares the same nonvolatile architecture as the MCP4442 but offers higher 8-bit resolution compared to the 7-bit MCP444X devices.

Digital Potentiometers Replacement Considerations

The MCP4462T-502E/ST is the tape-and-reel variant of this component. For direct pin-compatible replacement, verify the exact resistance tolerance and temperature coefficient specifications match the original design constraints.