MCP4552-502E/MS

Digital Potentiometers Overview

The MCP4552-502E/MS is a single-channel digital rheostat manufactured by Microchip Technology. It features an 8-bit resolution providing 257 discrete taps and utilizes a volatile RAM memory architecture. The nominal resistance between terminals A and B is 5 kΩ, with a tolerance of ±20%. The device operates on a supply voltage ranging from 1.8V to 5.5V and communicates via an I²C serial interface supporting standard, fast, and high-speed modes. It includes high-voltage tolerant inputs up to 12.5V and offers a typical wiper resistance of 75 Ω.

Digital Potentiometers Feature Summary

• Single-channel rheostat configuration with 8-bit (257 tap) resolution
• I²C serial interface supporting 100 kHz, 400 kHz, and 3.4 MHz speeds
• High-voltage tolerant digital inputs capable of withstanding up to 12.5V
• Volatile memory architecture with mid-scale power-on reset setting

Digital Potentiometers Applications

• Variable gain control in analog signal processing circuits
• Programmable biasing networks for operational amplifiers
• Adjustable reference voltage generation
• Digital potentiometer replacement in space-constrained PCB designs

Digital Potentiometers Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix 'MS' corresponds to the MSOP-8 package when sourcing components. Confirm that the 'E' designation indicates compliance with RoHS standards and halogen-free requirements. Ensure the system design accounts for the volatile nature of the internal RAM, as wiper settings will not persist after power loss.

Digital Potentiometers Selection Notes

Select this component when a single variable resistor controlled by I²C is required. The 5 kΩ value suits applications needing moderate current handling without excessive power dissipation. Consider the 75 Ω typical wiper resistance for precision applications. Verify that the host microcontroller supports the desired I²C clock speed, particularly if utilizing the 3.4 MHz high-speed mode which requires strict bus capacitance limits.

Digital Potentiometers Part Context

This part belongs to the MCP45XX family of single digital potentiometers. The '5' in the model number denotes 8-bit resolution, while '2' indicates the rheostat configuration. It shares the same pinout and core functionality as the MCP4551, except the MCP4551 is configured as a potentiometer rather than a rheostat.

Digital Potentiometers Replacement Considerations

The MCP4551-502E/MS serves as a functional alternative if a potentiometer configuration is acceptable instead of a rheostat. Other members of the MCP45XX series may be considered if different resistance values or resolutions are needed, provided the I²C address and pinout compatibility are maintained.