MCP4462T-104E/ST

Digital Potentiometers Overview

The MCP4462T-104E/ST is a quad rheostat 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 between terminals A and B is 100 kΩ. The device utilizes an I2C serial interface supporting standard (100 kHz), fast (400 kHz), and high-speed modes up to 3.4 MHz. It incorporates nonvolatile memory with WiperLock™ technology to automatically recall saved wiper settings upon power-up. The component operates within a supply voltage range of 2.7 V to 5.5 V for specified characteristics and supports extended industrial temperature ranges from -40°C to +125°C.

Digital Potentiometers Feature Summary

• Quad Rheostat Configuration: Four independent channels with 8-bit resolution (257 taps) and 100 kΩ nominal resistance.
• Nonvolatile Memory: Includes WiperLock™ technology for automatic wiper setting recall and five general-purpose EEPROM locations.
• High-Speed I2C Interface: Supports communication speeds of 100 kHz, 400 kHz, and up to 3.4 MHz.
• High-Voltage Tolerant Inputs: Digital input pins tolerate voltages up to 12.5 V, enabling split-rail applications.

Digital Potentiometers Applications

• Programmable gain amplifiers requiring precise resistance adjustment
• Voltage reference trimming in precision measurement systems
• Audio volume control circuits utilizing rheostat configurations
• Industrial process control systems needing durable digital resistance tuning

Digital Potentiometers Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix 'T' indicates tape-and-reel packaging when sourcing components. Confirm that the '104' designation corresponds to the 100 kΩ resistance value required for the circuit design. Ensure the 'E' suffix aligns with the extended temperature grade specifications. Cross-reference the manufacturer part number against official Microchip documentation to confirm current production status and availability.

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 demanding higher impedance levels compared to the 5 kΩ or 10 kΩ variants. The nonvolatile memory feature is essential for designs requiring state retention after power cycles. Verify that the system's I2C bus speed requirements are compatible with the device's support for up to 3.4 MHz operation.

Digital Potentiometers Part Context

This device belongs to the MCP446X family of quad I2C digital potentiometers. It shares architectural similarities with the MCP444X series but differs in its nonvolatile memory implementation. The 'MCP4462' variant specifically denotes the quad rheostat configuration, distinguishing it from the 'MCP4461' potentiometer version. The TSSOP-14 package provides a compact surface-mount solution suitable for space-constrained PCB layouts.

Digital Potentiometers Replacement Considerations

The MCP4461-104E/ST serves as a functional substitute if a potentiometer configuration is acceptable instead of a rheostat. For single-channel applications, the MCP4652T-104E/MF offers comparable I2C control but lacks the quad topology. Designers must verify pin compatibility and register mapping when transitioning between these related Microchip devices.