Analog Devices Inc. AD5242BRU10

Overview

AD5242BRU10 from Analog Devices is a dual-channel, I²C-compatible 256-position digital potentiometer with 10 kΩ end-to-end resistance, ±1% channel-to-channel matching, 30 ppm/°C temperature coefficient, and operation from 2.7 V to 5.5 V single supply or ±2.7 V dual supply. It serves as a programmable resistor in gain/offset adjustment circuits for precision instrumentation and audio signal conditioning.

For engineers reviewing the AD5242BRU10 datasheet, AD5242BRU10 pinout, AD5242BRU10 application, or AD5242BRU10 equivalent, key selection considerations include its dual RDAC architecture, programmable logic outputs O1/O2, shutdown functionality via SHDN pin or SD bit, and guaranteed −40°C to +105°C operation in TSSOP-16 package.

Technical Context

The AD5242BRU10 implements two independent 8-bit digitally controlled resistor ladders (RDAC1/RDAC2), each with 256 tap points and fixed A–B resistance of 10 kΩ. Wiper position is set via I²C interface using a 7-bit target address (determined by AD0/AD1 pins) plus A/B subaddress bit to select channel.

It supports both rheostat (A–W or B–W) and potentiometer divider (A–W–B) configurations. In divider mode, output voltage drift is reduced to 5 ppm/°C due to ratio-based operation, while wiper resistance remains 60 Ω typical and contributes to absolute resistance error in rheostat mode.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AD5242BRU10 is housed in a 16-lead TSSOP package (RU suffix), measuring 5 mm × 4.4 mm × 1.2 mm, optimized for space-constrained PCB layouts. Pin 1 is marked with a dot; pin numbering follows standard counter-clockwise orientation from top-left corner.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar digital potentiometer applications.

Compared with AD5242BRU100 and MAX5487ETE+, the AD5242BRU10 uniquely delivers matched dual-channel control, I²C readback, and integrated logic outputs in a single 16-pin TSSOP-enabling compact, self-contained analog tuning without external support components.

Availability

AD5242BRU10 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for audio volume control, instrumentation gain adjustment, DC power supply trim, and line impedance matching requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for AD5242BRU10 includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Analog Devices, Inc. is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing semiconductors, founded in 1965 and headquartered in Wilmington, MA.

The AD5242BRU10 belongs to the AD5241/AD5242 family of I²C-compatible digital potentiometers designed specifically for replacing mechanical trimmers in precision analog systems where reliability, temperature stability, and programmability are critical.

FAQ

What is the package type and lead count for AD5242BRU10?

The AD5242BRU10 uses a 16-lead TSSOP (Thin Shrink Small Outline Package) with 0.65 mm pitch, designated by the "RU" suffix in the part number. Its dimensions are 5.0 mm × 4.4 mm × 1.2 mm, making it suitable for compact PCB layouts while maintaining hand-solderability and automated assembly compatibility.

Does AD5242BRU10 support dual-supply operation, and what are the voltage limits?

Yes, AD5242BRU10 supports dual-supply operation with VDD = +2.7 V and VSS = −2.7 V, enabling true bipolar signal handling in potentiometer divider mode. The absolute maximum rating allows VDD to VSS differential up to 7 V, but recommended operation is strictly ±2.7 V to ensure specified performance across −40°C to +105°C.

How does the AD5242BRU10 handle power-on initialization?

The AD5242BRU10 features an internal power-on midscale preset that automatically loads code 0x80 into both RDAC registers at power-up, placing each wiper at 50% of full scale. This ensures a defined, repeatable starting resistance (e.g., ~5.03 kΩ for 10 kΩ version) without requiring host MCU intervention.

Can the O1 and O2 outputs of AD5242BRU10 drive LEDs directly?

Yes, the O1 and O2 outputs of AD5242BRU10 can directly drive standard LEDs: each output sinks up to 1.6 mA at VOL ≤ 0.4 V (with VDD ≥ 2.7 V), sufficient for indicator LEDs with series resistors ≥2 kΩ. They default to logic low at power-on and are independently programmable via the I²C instruction byte.

What is the maximum recommended current through the wiper terminal of AD5242BRU10?

The AD5242BRU10 wiper terminal (W1/W2) must not conduct more than 20 mA continuously, especially at zero-scale (code 0x00), where only the 60 Ω wiper resistance limits current. Exceeding this risks degradation of the internal CMOS switch; design practice mandates current limiting-e.g., series resistors or op-amp buffering-in rheostat-mode applications.