Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated DS1867E-050+T&R

Overview

DS1867E-050+T&R from Maxim Integrated (now Analog Devices) is a dual nonvolatile digital potentiometer with EEPROM, featuring two 256-position wiper settings, 50 kΩ end-to-end resistance per potentiometer, ±0.75 LSB absolute linearity, and operation from single 5V supply. It serves as a precision programmable resistor in gain/attenuation control circuits for analog signal conditioning.

For engineers reviewing the DS1867E-050+T&R datasheet, DS1867E-050+T&R pinout, DS1867E-050+T&R application, or DS1867E-050+T&R equivalent, key selection criteria include EEPROM retention of wiper position across power cycles, 3-wire serial interface timing (≤70 ns propagation delay), stacked/cascaded configuration support, and industrial temperature range (-40°C to +85°C) compliance.

Technical Context

The DS1867E-050+T&R implements two independent 256-tap resistive dividers with EEPROM-backed wiper storage, enabling persistent setting retention without external backup power. Its 3-wire serial interface (RST/CLK/DQ) controls wiper positions and stack select bit via a 17-bit shift register, where bits 0–8 define stack select and pot-1 wiper, and bits 9–16 define pot-0 wiper.

It supports stacked configuration (series connection of both pots yielding 100 kΩ total resistance with 512 effective steps) and cascaded daisy-chain operation using COUT-to-DQ feedback with 2–10 kΩ isolation resistor. Wiper nonvolatility relies on automatic EEPROM write triggered by VCC drop below 4.5 V, requiring ≥4 ms power-down time for guaranteed storage.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

DS1867E-050+T&R is packaged in a 16-pin SOIC (300-mil) surface-mount package with exposed pad not connected. Pin functions are electrically isolated between potentiometer sections and serial interface.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with AD5232BRUZ10 and MCP42050-I/P, the DS1867E-050+T&R uniquely combines 5V-only operation, guaranteed EEPROM wiper retention on power loss, and native 3-wire serial compatibility-making it optimal for legacy 5V industrial systems requiring zero-config reinitialization.

Availability

DS1867E-050+T&R is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation interfaces, analog sensor signal conditioning, programmable gain amplifiers, and embedded audio control systems requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.

Supply support for DS1867E-050+T&R 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 (formerly Maxim Integrated) designs high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing ICs for precision measurement, power management, and connectivity applications.

The DS1867E-050+T&R belongs to Maxim's legacy digital potentiometer family, engineered specifically for replacing mechanical trimmers in industrial and telecom infrastructure where nonvolatile setting retention and 5V system compatibility are critical.

FAQ

What is the resistance tolerance of the DS1867E-050+T&R?

The DS1867E-050+T&R has an end-to-end resistance tolerance of ±20% at 25°C, as specified in the Analog Devices datasheet. This tolerance applies to each 50 kΩ potentiometer section independently and is measured across H0–L0 and H1–L1 terminals. The tolerance remains stable over the full industrial temperature range (-40°C to +85°C), though actual variation may be tighter in production lots. For precision applications, users should calibrate against known references rather than rely solely on nominal resistance.

Does the DS1867E-050+T&R require external components for EEPROM write operation?

No, the DS1867E-050+T&R performs automatic EEPROM wiper storage without external components. When VCC drops below 4.5 V, the device detects the power-down condition and initiates an internal write sequence to store the current 17-bit I/O register contents into EEPROM. This occurs provided the power-down time exceeds 4 ms from 4.5 V to 3.0 V. No external capacitor, resistor, or controller action is needed-making DS1867E-050+T&R truly self-contained for nonvolatile operation.

Can the DS1867E-050+T&R operate from a ±5V supply?

No, the DS1867E-050+T&R is rated only for single 5V operation (4.5 V to 5.5 V). Although earlier DS1867 family variants supported ±5V supplies, the DS1867E-050+T&R variant is explicitly characterized and qualified for 5V-only use. Its VB pin must be tied to GND, and applying negative voltage to any pin violates Absolute Maximum Ratings. Attempting ±5V operation risks permanent damage and invalidates specifications including linearity, wiper resistance, and EEPROM endurance.

How does the stacked configuration affect resolution and total resistance in the DS1867E-050+T&R?

In stacked configuration, the DS1867E-050+T&R connects both 50 kΩ potentiometers in series, yielding 100 kΩ total end-to-end resistance while preserving 256-step resolution per section. The effective wiper resolution becomes 512 steps because the SOUT pin selects either W0 or W1 via the stack-select bit, allowing continuous traversal across both ladders. However, the step size remains RTOT/256 = 100 kΩ/256 ≈ 390 Ω per step-not 100 kΩ/512-since each potentiometer contributes its full 256 positions independently.

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the DS1867E-050+T&R serial interface?

The DS1867E-050+T&R supports a maximum serial clock frequency of 10 MHz, as confirmed in the AC Electrical Characteristics table of the official datasheet. At this rate, a complete 17-bit transaction completes in ≤1.7 µs, enabling rapid reconfiguration in time-critical analog control loops. Timing margins require minimum CLK pulse width of 50 ns, data setup time of 30 ns, and hold time of 10 ns-all achievable with standard 5V microcontrollers. Exceeding 10 MHz risks metastability and incomplete register loading.