MCP4542-502E/MS

Digital Potentiometers Overview

The MCP4542-502E/MS is a single-channel digital rheostat manufactured by Microchip Technology. It features a 7-bit resistor network providing 128 taps and nonvolatile memory for wiper settings. The nominal resistance (R_AB) is 5 kΩ with a ±20% tolerance. Operating voltage ranges from 2.7V to 5.5V, with serial interface operation supported down to 1.8V. Key specifications include a typical wiper resistance of 75 Ω, a temperature coefficient of 150 ppm/°C over the extended range (-40°C to +125°C), and an inactive supply current of 2.5 µA. It utilizes an I²C interface.

Digital Potentiometers Feature Summary

• Nonvolatile Memory: Stores wiper settings using EEPROM with WiperLock™ technology and 10 general-purpose memory locations.
• I²C Interface: Supports Standard (100 kHz), Fast (400 kHz), and High-Speed (up to 3.4 MHz) modes.
• High-Voltage Inputs: Digital inputs tolerate up to 12.5V, allowing compatibility with higher voltage logic levels.
• Terminal Disconnect: Includes a Terminal Control (TCON) register to disconnect resistor network terminals.

Digital Potentiometers Applications

• Calibration systems requiring persistent analog settings.
• Gain control in instrumentation circuits.
• Voltage reference adjustment.
• Audio volume control applications.

Digital Potentiometers Procurement Notes

Verify the specific ordering suffix 'E' corresponds to the RoHS-compliant variant and '/MS' indicates the MSOP-8 package. Confirm that the '-502' suffix correctly specifies the 5 kΩ resistance value. Ensure the design supports the required I²C clock speeds and high-voltage tolerant input levels if interfacing with 12.5V signals.

Digital Potentiometers Selection Notes

Select this component when a single digital rheostat with nonvolatile memory is required. The 7-bit resolution offers 128 steps, suitable for moderate precision adjustments. Verify that the 5 kΩ resistance fits the circuit impedance requirements. Note that while the device operates at 1.8V for the interface, full analog characteristics are specified from 2.7V to 5.5V.

Digital Potentiometers Part Context

This part belongs to the MCP454X family of single-channel digital potentiometers/rheostats with nonvolatile memory. It shares the same pinout and core functionality as the MCP4541 (potentiometer configuration) but is configured as a rheostat. It differs from the MCP4562 series primarily in its 7-bit resolution compared to the 8-bit resolution of the latter.

Digital Potentiometers Replacement Considerations

MCP4541-502E/MS (Potentiometer configuration).

Digital Potentiometers FAQ

What is the difference between the MCP4542 and MCP4541?

The MCP4542 is configured as a single rheostat, while the MCP4541 is configured as a single potentiometer. Both share the same 7-bit resolution, nonvolatile memory, and I²C interface.

Does the MCP4542 retain its setting after power loss?

Yes, it features nonvolatile EEPROM memory that automatically recalls the saved wiper setting upon power-up.

Can the digital inputs handle voltages higher than VDD?

Yes, the SDA, SCL, HVC/A0, A1, A2, and WP pins are high-voltage tolerant up to 12.5V.