MCP4631T-104E/ST

Digital Potentiometers Overview

The MCP4631T-104E/ST is a dual-channel digital potentiometer IC manufactured by Microchip Technology. It features two independent 7-bit resistor networks with 128 taps, offering a nominal resistance of 100 kΩ (indicated by the '104' suffix). The device utilizes an I²C serial interface for control and employs volatile RAM to store wiper settings. Key electrical specifications include a supply voltage range of 1.8V to 5.5V, high-voltage tolerant digital inputs up to 12.5V, and an operating temperature range from -40°C to +125°C. The T in the part number denotes a tape-and-reel packaging format.

Digital Potentiometers Feature Summary

• Dual 7-bit Digital Potentiometers: Contains two independent 100 kΩ resistor networks with 128 adjustable taps.
• I²C Serial Interface: Supports Standard Mode (100 kHz), Fast Mode (400 kHz), and High-Speed modes (up to 3.4 MHz).
• High-Voltage Tolerant Inputs: Digital input pins tolerate voltages up to 12.5V, allowing compatibility with higher voltage logic levels.
• Volatile Memory Configuration: Wiper positions are stored in RAM and reset to mid-scale upon power-up or brown-out events.

Digital Potentiometers Applications

• Programmable gain amplifiers requiring precise resistance adjustment.
• Voltage reference trimming and calibration circuits.
• Audio volume control applications utilizing the potentiometer configuration.
• Industrial sensor biasing where high-voltage tolerant interfaces are required.

Digital Potentiometers Procurement Notes

Verify that the 'T' suffix corresponds to the tape-and-reel packaging variant rather than the tube variant. Confirm the specific resistance value matches the '104' designation (100 kΩ) for the intended circuit design. Ensure the system operates within the specified 1.8V to 5.5V supply range to maintain valid electrical characteristics.

Digital Potentiometers Selection Notes

Select this component when a dual-channel digital potentiometer with I²C control is required. The 7-bit resolution provides 128 steps, suitable for applications not requiring fine 8-bit granularity. Consider the volatile memory nature; if non-volatile storage is needed, alternative models such as the MCP4641 should be evaluated instead.

Digital Potentiometers Part Context

This device belongs to the MCP45XX/MCP46XX family of digital potentiometers. The 'MCP46' prefix specifically identifies it as a dual-potentiometer variant, distinguishing it from single-pot models like the MCP4531. The '104' code indicates the 100 kΩ resistance option, while the '/ST' suffix specifies the TSSOP-14 package type.

Digital Potentiometers Replacement Considerations

For direct pin-compatible replacements within the same family, consider the MCP4631 without the 'T' suffix for tube packaging. For non-volatile alternatives with identical pinouts, the MCP4641 series offers EEPROM storage but requires a minimum supply voltage of 2.7V.