MCP45HV51T-103E/MQ

Digital Potentiometers Overview

The MCP45HV51T-103E/MQ is an 8-bit single-channel digital potentiometer IC from Microchip Technology, featuring a 10 kΩ end-to-end resistance (RAB) and 256 taps. It utilizes a volatile memory architecture controlled via an I²C serial interface. The device supports high-voltage analog operation with a terminal voltage range of +36V relative to V- or ±18V relative to DGND. Digital logic operates on VL (1.8V to 5.5V), while the analog supply V+ ranges from 10V to 36V. It is housed in a VQFN-20 (5x5 mm) package.

Digital Potentiometers Feature Summary

• High-Voltage Analog Support: Handles up to +36V terminal voltage or ±18V dual-rail configurations.
• I²C Serial Interface: Supports standard (100 kHz), fast (400 kHz), and high-speed modes (1.7 MHz/3.4 MHz).
• Write Latch (WLAT) Pin: Allows synchronization of wiper updates to specific conditions like zero-crossing events.
• Low Wiper Resistance: Typical RW of 75 Ω for the 10 kΩ variant.

Digital Potentiometers Applications

• High-voltage sensor signal conditioning and gain adjustment.
• Industrial process control systems requiring isolated or floating analog adjustments.
• Programmable filter cutoff frequency tuning in audio or instrumentation circuits.
• Power supply rail trimming and calibration.

Digital Potentiometers Procurement Notes

Verify the 'T' suffix indicates tape-and-reel packaging and the 'MQ' suffix confirms the VQFN-20 package. Confirm the '103' code corresponds to the 10 kΩ resistance value. Ensure the design accounts for the volatile nature of the wiper position, which resets upon power loss unless managed by external circuitry or application logic.

Digital Potentiometers Selection Notes

Select this component when an I²C interface is required for high-voltage analog networks exceeding standard 5.5V logic levels. The 10 kΩ resistance offers a balance between current handling (12.5 mA max) and noise immunity. Consider the MCP45HV51-103E/ST if a TSSOP-14 package is preferred over the VQFN-20 form factor.

Digital Potentiometers Part Context

This part belongs to the MCP45HVX1 family, designed specifically for applications needing high-voltage analog terminals independent of low-voltage digital logic. The 'HV' designation highlights its capability to operate with large potential differences between the analog ground (DGND) and the resistor network terminals.

Digital Potentiometers Replacement Considerations

MCP45HV51-103E/MQ (Tube Packaging): Functionally identical but supplied in tubes instead of tape-and-reel.

Digital Potentiometers FAQ

What is the maximum continuous current through the wiper for the 10 kΩ version?

The maximum continuous current (IW) for the 10 kΩ device is 12.5 mA.

How does the Write Latch (WLAT) pin function?

The WLAT pin inhibits the update of the volatile Wiper register. The new wiper setting is only latched into the actual wiper position when the WLAT pin is driven Low.

What is the typical bandwidth of this device?

For the 10 kΩ device, the -3 dB bandwidth is typically 240 kHz at mid-scale code.