Analog Devices Inc. AD5242BRUZ10

Overview

AD5242BRUZ10 from Analog Devices is a dual-channel, I²C-compatible 256-position digital potentiometer with 10 kΩ end-to-end resistance, 30 ppm/°C temperature coefficient, and operation from 2.7 V to 5.5 V single supply or ±2.7 V dual supply. It replaces mechanical potentiometers in precision gain/offset adjustment circuits and supports programmable logic outputs O1/O2 for system-level control in audio/video signal conditioning.

For engineers reviewing the AD5242BRUZ10 datasheet, AD5242BRUZ10 pinout, AD5242BRUZ10 application, or AD5242BRUZ10 equivalent, key selection criteria include dual-channel matching (±1% R_AB), I²C readback capability, midscale power-on reset, shutdown functionality, and TSSOP-16 package compatibility with space-constrained industrial and multimedia PCB layouts.

Technical Context

The AD5242BRUZ10 implements two independent 8-bit digitally controlled resistor ladders, each with 256 tap points and fixed 10 kΩ A-to-B resistance. Its I²C interface supports up to 400 kHz clock frequency, addressable via AD0/AD1 pins, and enables both write-only configuration and readback of wiper positions.

Each channel operates in rheostat (A–W or B–W) or potentiometer divider (A–W–B) mode. In divider mode, output voltage drift is reduced to 5 ppm/°C due to ratio-metric operation, while wiper resistance remains 60 Ω typical and total harmonic distortion is 0.005% at 1 kHz.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AD5242BRUZ10 is housed in a 16-lead TSSOP package (4.4 mm × 5 mm, 0.65 mm pitch), optimized for high-density PCB layouts in portable and industrial equipment.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with AD5242BRUZ100 and MCP42010-I/P, the AD5242BRUZ10 uniquely delivers dual-channel 10 kΩ matching, I²C readback, and integrated logic outputs in a compact TSSOP-16 - making it optimal for space-constrained, multi-function analog control where precision, diagnostics, and board-level integration matter.

Availability

AD5242BRUZ10 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for audio signal conditioning, instrumentation calibration, video impedance matching, and programmable current sourcing requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges.

Supply support for AD5242BRUZ10 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 is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing semiconductors, serving industrial, automotive, communications, and healthcare markets since 1965.

The AD5242BRUZ10 belongs to the AD5241/AD5242 family of I²C digital potentiometers engineered for precision analog trimming and programmable resistance in systems demanding reliability, temperature stability, and embedded digital control.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating voltage for AD5242BRUZ10?

The AD5242BRUZ10 supports a single-supply range of 2.7 V to 5.5 V or dual-supply operation from ±2.7 V. Absolute maximum ratings specify VDD to GND ≤ +7 V and VSS to GND ≥ −7 V, but sustained operation beyond ±2.7 V violates the guaranteed specification limits and may impact linearity or tempco performance. Always refer to Table 1 in the Rev. F datasheet for DC characteristics under valid supply conditions.

Does AD5242BRUZ10 support I²C readback of wiper positions?

Yes, AD5242BRUZ10 supports full I²C readback of both channel wiper positions. After selecting a channel (RDAC1 or RDAC2) via the A/B bit in the instruction byte during a write cycle, a subsequent read transaction retrieves the stored 8-bit value. This enables verification of programmed settings, fault detection, and nonvolatile state recovery - critical for safety-critical or calibration-sensitive applications using AD5242BRUZ10.

How does the shutdown function work on AD5242BRUZ10?

The AD5242BRUZ10 features dual shutdown control: hardware (SHDN pin, active low) and software (SD bit in I²C instruction). Both disconnect Terminal A and short Wiper to Terminal B, reducing supply current to ≤0.1 µA while preserving the RDAC register contents. Upon exit, the last programmed wiper position is immediately restored - ensuring seamless reactivation without host reinitialization in systems using AD5242BRUZ10.

What is the wiper resistance of AD5242BRUZ10 and why does it matter?

The AD5242BRUZ10 has a typical wiper resistance (R_W) of 60 Ω, with a maximum of 120 Ω. This resistance appears in series with the selected tap point in both rheostat and potentiometer modes. In zero-scale (code 0x00), only R_W remains between W and B - limiting usable current to ≤20 mA to prevent contact degradation. Designers must account for R_W when calculating total resistance, THD, and settling time in precision AD5242BRUZ10 applications.

Can AD5242BRUZ10 operate with a 3.3 V microcontroller I²C bus?

Yes, AD5242BRUZ10 is fully compatible with 3.3 V I²C buses. Its SDA/SCL inputs accept VIH ≥ 0.7 × VDD (≥2.1 V at VDD = 3 V) and VIL ≤ 0.6 V, meeting standard I²C level thresholds. Pull-up resistors should be connected to the same 3.3 V rail as the microcontroller. The AD5242BRUZ10's internal logic and I²C state machine operate correctly across the full 2.7–5.5 V supply range, including 3.3 V nominal systems.