Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated DS1867S-10

Overview

DS1867S-10 from Maxim Integrated (now Analog Devices) is a dual nonvolatile digital potentiometer with EEPROM, featuring two 256-position wiper settings, 10 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 loops for analog signal conditioning circuits.

For engineers reviewing the DS1867S-10 datasheet, DS1867S-10 pinout, DS1867S-10 application, or DS1867S-10 equivalent, key selection considerations include wiper nonvolatility, 3-wire serial interface timing (10 MHz max CLK), stacked/cascaded configuration support, and industrial temperature range (-40°C to +85°C) compliance.

Technical Context

The DS1867S-10 implements two independent 256-tap resistive dividers controlled via a 3-wire serial interface (RST, CLK, DQ), with wiper positions stored in on-chip EEPROM for retention during power loss. Its architecture includes a 17-bit I/O shift register (1 bit stack select + 8-bit wiper-1 + 8-bit wiper-0) and shadow memory for automatic power-down storage.

It supports stacked configuration (series connection of both pots yielding 512 effective taps and doubled resistance) and cascaded daisy-chain operation via COUT/DQ routing, enabling multi-device control over one bus. Wiper output is multiplexed to SOUT based on the stack select bit, and substrate bias (VB) allows ±5V operation when required.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

DS1867S-10 is packaged in 16-pin SOIC (300-mil), surface-mount compatible with automated assembly. Pin functions are electrically validated per Maxim's official datasheet revision 102199.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with AD5232BRUZ10 and MCP42010-I/P, the DS1867S-10 uniquely integrates hardware-supported stacking, true 3-wire simplicity (no CS pin), and guaranteed EEPROM write endurance (>25k cycles), making it optimal for industrial systems needing robust, self-contained analog tuning.

Availability

DS1867S-10 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial instrumentation, audio signal processing, sensor calibration, and embedded analog front-end design requiring stable component supply and long-term parametric consistency.

Supply support for DS1867S-10 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 (via acquisition of Maxim Integrated) designs high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and RF ICs for precision measurement, power management, and signal conditioning.

The DS1867S-10 belongs to Maxim's legacy digital potentiometer family, engineered specifically for applications demanding nonvolatile wiper storage, low-noise analog performance, and minimal external component count in space-constrained layouts.

FAQ

What is the resistance tolerance and temperature coefficient of the DS1867S-10?

The DS1867S-10 has a ±20% end-to-end resistance tolerance at 25°C and a temperature coefficient of 750 ppm/°C. These values are specified in the Analog Resistor Characteristics table of the official datasheet and directly impact gain stability in temperature-varying environments. The DS1867S-10 maintains its 10 kΩ nominal value across the full -40°C to +85°C operating range within these bounds.

Does the DS1867S-10 require an external power-on reset circuit for reliable wiper initialization?

No, the DS1867S-10 does not require an external POR circuit. Upon power-up, the DS1867S-10 automatically loads the last stored wiper position from EEPROM into the active register after a 2–10 ms recovery time (tREC). This behavior is guaranteed by internal power-on detection and eliminates dependency on system-level reset sequencing.

Can the DS1867S-10 operate with a negative substrate bias (VB) while maintaining full 256-step resolution?

Yes, the DS1867S-10 supports VB = –5.5V while preserving full 256-step resolution and linearity. When VB is biased negatively, resistor terminal voltage ranges extend to –5.5V, enabling bipolar signal handling. All electrical specifications-including wiper resistance (400–1000 Ω) and linearity-remain valid under this condition per the Absolute Maximum Ratings and Recommended Operating Conditions tables.

How many DS1867S-10 devices can be cascaded on a single 3-wire bus?

The DS1867S-10 supports unlimited cascading in theory, but practical limits depend on CLK rise time degradation and cumulative propagation delay. Each device adds ≤70 ns delay at COUT, so for a 10 MHz CLK (100 ns period), up to ~10 devices can be reliably chained. Total bits transmitted equal 17 × number of devices, requiring precise timing alignment in the host controller firmware.

Is the wiper resistance of the DS1867S-10 constant across all 256 positions?

No, the wiper resistance of the DS1867S-10 varies from 400 Ω to 1000 Ω depending on wiper voltage and position, as confirmed in the DC Electrical Characteristics table. This variation affects low-impedance load interfaces; best practice is to drive the wiper with high-impedance inputs (e.g., op-amp buffers) to minimize gain error caused by RW modulation.