MCP4561T-502E/MF

Digital Potentiometers Overview

The MCP4561T-502E/MF is a single-channel digital potentiometer from Microchip Technology, featuring an I2C serial interface and nonvolatile memory. It provides 8-bit resolution with 257 tap positions and a nominal resistance (RAB) of 5 kΩ. The device operates within a supply voltage range of 2.7V to 5.5V for full specifications, supporting operation down to 1.8V for the serial interface only. Key electrical parameters include a typical wiper resistance of 75 Ω, a bandwidth of 2 MHz at 5 kΩ, and low temperature coefficients of 50 ppm/°C (absolute) and 15 ppm/°C (ratiometric). It utilizes WiperLock™ technology for secure calibration storage.

Digital Potentiometers Feature Summary

• Nonvolatile Memory: Features EEPROM for automatic recall of saved wiper settings upon power-up.
• WiperLock™ Technology: Allows application-specific calibration settings to be secured in the EEPROM.
• High-Voltage Tolerant Inputs: Digital inputs tolerate up to 12.5V, enabling compatibility with higher voltage logic levels.
• I2C Interface: Supports standard (100 kHz), fast (400 kHz), and high-speed modes (up to 3.4 MHz).

Digital Potentiometers Applications

• Audio volume control and tone adjustment circuits
• Programmable gain amplifiers and sensor signal conditioning
• Voltage reference trimming and offset calibration
• Battery management system balancing

Digital Potentiometers Procurement Notes

Verify the ordering suffix 'MF' corresponds to the DFN 3x3 package with an exposed thermal pad as specified in the datasheet. Confirm that the 'T' indicates tape and reel packaging if bulk quantities are required. Ensure the selected variant matches the required resistance value (-502 for 5 kΩ) and that the nonvolatile memory feature aligns with the application's power-loss retention needs.

Digital Potentiometers Selection Notes

Select this component when a single-channel digital potentiometer with persistent memory is required. The 5 kΩ resistance value suits moderate current applications. Consider the 8-bit resolution for precise control. Verify that the system voltage remains above 2.7V for full analog performance or above 1.8V if only I2C communication is needed. The DFN package requires adequate thermal management due to the exposed pad.

Digital Potentiometers Part Context

This part belongs to the MCP454X/456X family of I2C digital potentiometers. The '61' designation indicates a single potentiometer configuration with nonvolatile memory and 8-bit resolution. It differs from volatile variants like the MCP4531 and offers more steps than the 7-bit MCP4541. The 'MF' suffix specifically denotes the 8-pin DFN 3x3 package.

Digital Potentiometers Replacement Considerations

Direct pin-compatible replacements within the same package include other MCP4561 variants with different resistance values (e.g., -103 for 10 kΩ). For functional equivalents with different interfaces, consider SPI-based devices like the MCP4161, though pinouts will differ. Volatile alternatives like the MCP4531 lack nonvolatile memory.