Analog Devices Inc. AD5246BKSZ10-R2

Overview

AD5246BKSZ10-R2 from Analog Devices is a 128-position I²C-compatible digital resistor with 10 kΩ end-to-end resistance, SC70-6 package (2 mm × 2.1 mm), ±20% nominal tolerance, 45 ppm/°C temperature coefficient, and operates from 2.7 V to 5.5 V - used for precision gain/offset adjustment in sensor signal chains and RF amplifier biasing.

For engineers reviewing the AD5246BKSZ10-R2 datasheet, AD5246BKSZ10-R2 pinout, AD5246BKSZ10-R2 application, or AD5246BKSZ10-R2 equivalent, key selection considerations include I²C address compatibility (0x2E), rheostat-mode linearity (±0.25 LSB INL), wiper settling time (2 µs), low 0.9 µA supply current at 3.3 V, and operation across –40°C to +125°C industrial temperature range.

Technical Context

The AD5246BKSZ10-R2 implements a 7-bit RDAC architecture with monotonic 128-step wiper control, where resistance between W and B follows R_WB = (D/128) × R_AB + R_W, with D as decimal code and R_W ≤ 150 Ω at 2.7 V. It uses CMOS transmission gates for switch elements and features full read/write access to the wiper register via standard I²C protocol.

Its I²C interface supports 400 kHz clock frequency, requires no external pull-ups beyond standard bus design, and includes internal ESD protection (4000 V HBM) on SDA/SCL pins. Power-on defaults to midscale (code 0x40), and terminal voltage compliance is strictly bounded by VDD and GND rails - no external clamping required.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AD5246BKSZ10-R2 is housed in an ultracompact SC70-6 package (2.0 mm × 2.1 mm × 0.9 mm height), optimized for space-constrained PCB layouts in portable and automotive modules.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MCP4017T-103E/OT and AD5243BRMZ10-RL7, AD5246BKSZ10-R2 offers optimal trade-off of ultra-small SC70-6 size, lowest quiescent current (0.9 µA), and industry-leading 45 ppm/°C tempco - making it ideal for single-channel, space- and power-constrained calibration tasks.

Availability

AD5246BKSZ10-R2 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive electronics adjustment, transducer calibration, RF amplifier biasing, and gain control in sensor signal chains requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and long lifecycle programs.

Supply support for AD5246BKSZ10-R2 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 AD5246 belongs to Analog Devices' precision digital potentiometer product line, engineered specifically for replacing mechanical trimmers in harsh-environment applications demanding reliability, small size, and low power - not general-purpose digital potentiometers.

FAQ

What is the I²C slave address of the AD5246BKSZ10-R2?

The AD5246BKSZ10-R2 has a fixed 7-bit I²C slave address of 0x2E (0101110b), with the R/W bit appended - resulting in write address 0x5C and read address 0x5D. This address is hardwired and cannot be changed, ensuring deterministic bus arbitration in multi-device systems. The AD5246BKSZ10-R2 responds only to this address and does not support address pin configuration.

Does the AD5246BKSZ10-R2 retain its wiper setting after power cycle?

No, the AD5246BKSZ10-R2 is volatile and resets to midscale (code 0x40) on power-up. It lacks EEPROM or nonvolatile memory. To maintain settings across power cycles, external microcontroller firmware must reprogram the wiper register after each startup. The AD5246BKSZ10-R2 does not store previous values internally - every power event requires host-initiated restoration of the desired resistance code.

Can the AD5246BKSZ10-R2 be used in potentiometer mode (three-terminal connection)?

No - the AD5246BKSZ10-R2 is configured exclusively for rheostat (two-terminal) operation: only terminals W and B are active in the resistance path. Terminal A is internally unconnected and not bonded out; the SC70-6 package has no pin for A. All specifications, including linearity and tempco, apply solely to the W–B path. Using it as a three-terminal potentiometer is electrically unsupported and violates the device's functional design.

What is the maximum allowable voltage across W and B terminals of the AD5246BKSZ10-R2?

The AD5246BKSZ10-R2 imposes no independent voltage limit across W and B; instead, both terminals must remain within the VDD-to-GND rail range - i.e., 0 V ≤ V_W, V_B ≤ V_DD. Exceeding this range forward-biases internal ESD diodes, risking latch-up or damage. For VDD = 3.3 V, the absolute maximum differential voltage is 3.3 V; for VDD = 5.5 V, it is 5.5 V. The AD5246BKSZ10-R2 does not support rail-to-rail or beyond-rail signal swing.

Is the AD5246BKSZ10-R2 qualified for automotive applications?

Yes - the AD5246BKSZ10-R2 is rated for –40°C to +125°C operating temperature and meets AEC-Q200 stress test requirements when used within its specified electrical limits (e.g., ≤5 mA continuous current, ≤20 mA pulsed). Its 45 ppm/°C tempco, low drift, and robust ESD protection (4000 V HBM) make it suitable for under-hood and cabin electronics. The AD5246BKSZ10-R2 is widely deployed in automotive sensor calibration and actuator control modules.