Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated DS1881Z-050+
- Part No.:
- DS1881Z-050+
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Digital Potentiometers
- Package:
- 16-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
DS1881Z-050+.pdf
- Description:
- IC DGTL POT 45KOHM 64TAP 16SO
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:302
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Product details
Overview
DS1881Z-050+ from Maxim Integrated is a dual-channel, nonvolatile digital potentiometer optimized for 5V audio signal attenuation with logarithmic taper, 45kΩ end-to-end resistance, ±0.5dB interchannel matching, and zero-crossing detection to eliminate pop/click during wiper transitions. It operates across -40°C to +85°C in 16-pin SO packages and supports I²C interface with three address pins for up to eight devices on one bus.
For engineers reviewing the DS1881Z-050+ datasheet, DS1881Z-050+ pinout, DS1881Z-050+ application, or DS1881Z-050+ equivalent, key selection considerations include its dual-channel audio log taper (63-step or 33-step configurable), independent VCC/VDD supplies, mute function (>80dB attenuation), and industrial temperature rating - all critical for notebook, portable, and automotive audio volume control designs.
Technical Context
The DS1881Z-050+ integrates two independent 45kΩ logarithmic-taper potentiometers with EEPROM storage for wiper settings and configuration registers. Its dual-supply architecture separates analog (VCC = 4.5–5.5V) and digital (VDD = 2.7–5.5V) domains to minimize noise coupling and support mixed-voltage system integration.
Zero-crossing detection (tZCD = 38–50ms timeout) enables silent wiper updates by delaying position changes until H/L terminals reach equal potential. Configuration Option 1 delivers 63 × 1dB steps + mute; Option 2 provides 33 positions (12×1dB, 12×2dB, 8×3dB) + mute and software compatibility with DS1808 in 5V systems.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| End-to-End Resistance | 45kΩ ±20% - defines maximum analog signal path impedance and sets attenuation range scaling. |
| Attenuation Resolution | Configurable: 63 × 1dB steps (Option 1) or 33-position stepped (12×1dB/12×2dB/8×3dB) - enables precise volume control granularity matching human hearing perception. |
| Mute Attenuation | >80dB - fully silences audio channel without requiring external switching circuitry. |
| Interchannel Matching | ±0.5dB - ensures identical left/right channel gain tracking for stereo balance in consumer and automotive audio. |
| THD+N | 0.005% at 1kHz - preserves high-fidelity audio integrity under typical operating conditions. |
| Crosstalk | -110dB at 1kHz - prevents audible leakage between left and right channels in dual-pot architecture. |
| I²C Clock Frequency | Up to 400kHz - supports fast configuration updates without blocking real-time audio signal paths. |
Pinout & Package
DS1881Z-050+ uses a 16-pin SO (150-mil) package with exposed pad not present; pin functions are validated per Maxim's official pin description table and top-view diagram.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| GND (Pin 1) | Ground reference | Common return for analog and digital sections; must be low-impedance to minimize THD+N degradation. |
| A2, A1, A0 (Pins 2–3, 5) | I²C slave address inputs | Set unique 7-bit address (0101xxx) enabling up to 8 devices on shared bus without address conflict. |
| N.C. (Pin 4) | No connection | Internally unconnected; must remain floating or tied to GND - no routing or loading permitted. |
| W0, W1 (Pins 6, 11) | Wiper outputs | Signal output nodes; require high-impedance loads (>100kΩ) to maintain specified THD+N and linearity. |
| L0, L1 (Pins 7, 9) | Low-side terminals | Analog ground reference points for each potentiometer; must connect to clean audio ground. |
| H0, H1 (Pins 8, 10) | High-side terminals | Input signal entry points; accept 0–5.5V audio signals within absolute max ratings. |
| CE (Pin 12) | Chip enable | Active-low control enabling/disabling I²C interface; allows hardware-level bus arbitration and power sequencing. |
| SDA, SCL (Pins 13–14) | I²C bidirectional data/clock | Open-drain interface requiring external pull-ups; compatible with 3.3V or 5V microcontrollers. |
| VCC (Pin 15) | Analog supply | 4.5–5.5V dedicated rail powering resistor array; must be applied before VDD to prevent latch-up. |
| VDD (Pin 16) | Digital supply | 2.7–5.5V rail powering logic and EEPROM; independent of VCC to isolate digital noise from analog path. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Dual audio log-taper potentiometers | 45kΩ end-to-end resistance with ±0.5dB channel-to-channel matching ensures consistent stereo volume control without manual trimming. |
| Zero-crossing detection | 38–50ms timeout window eliminates audible click/pop during wiper updates by synchronizing movement to signal zero crossings. |
| Configurable attenuation modes | Option 1 (63×1dB) for fine-grained control; Option 2 (33-step variable step) enables drop-in replacement for DS1808 in legacy 5V audio designs. |
| Independent VCC/VDD supplies | Separate 4.5–5.5V analog and 2.7–5.5V digital rails reduce supply-induced crosstalk and support mixed-voltage SoC interfaces. |
| Nonvolatile wiper storage | EEPROM retains last-set positions across power cycles - essential for user-preferred volume levels in portable and automotive systems. |
Applications
| Notebook Audio Volume Control | Car Stereo Channel Balancing |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Precise left/right volume adjustment in thin-profile laptop audio subsystems with space-constrained PCB layouts. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual-channel analog attenuation element receiving I²C commands from embedded controller; zero-crossing timing prevents audible artifacts during user-initiated volume changes. Use Value: Eliminates need for mechanical pots and external mute switches while maintaining <0.005% THD+N and ±0.5dB interchannel matching over full temperature range. |
Use Scenario: Independent front/rear or left/right channel gain tuning in automotive head units with CAN-linked infotainment processors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-reliability NV digital pot providing stable attenuation settings across thermal cycling (-40°C to +85°C); I²C address pins allow multiple DS1881Z-050+ units on single bus for multi-zone audio. Use Value: Enables factory calibration storage and user preference retention without battery-backed RAM; mute function achieves >80dB isolation for speaker protection during startup/shutdown. |
| Portable Media Player Output Stage | PC Sound Card Mixer |
Use Scenario: Low-power headphone driver gain control in battery-operated MP3 players requiring long operational life and click-free operation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Analog signal path attenuator with ultra-low ICC (0.9–5µA) and programmable volatile/NV mode; zero-crossing detector activates only when needed to conserve energy. Use Value: Extends battery runtime via sub-5µA analog supply current while delivering 110dB crosstalk rejection to prevent channel bleed in stereo headphones. |
Use Scenario: Software-controllable analog mixing of line-in, mic-in, and DAC outputs on desktop motherboard audio codecs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual-potentiometer interface bridging digital audio controllers to analog output amplifiers; I²C interface allows simultaneous update of both channels for phase-coherent level adjustments. Use Value: Supports real-time mixer automation via host CPU without interrupting audio playback; 45kΩ resistance matches standard line-level input impedances for minimal signal loss. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dual-channel audio taper digital potentiometer applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| DS1808Z-050+ | 33-position log taper only; no Option 1 (63-step); no zero-crossing detection; 16-pin SO package. | Limited to fixed 33-step attenuation; lacks mute and silent update capability - unsuitable for high-fidelity or user-sensitive audio. | Select DS1808Z-050+ only if legacy DS1808 software compatibility is mandatory and zero-crossing elimination is unnecessary. |
| AD5207BRUZ10 | 10kΩ end-to-end resistance; linear taper; no zero-crossing; SPI interface; 14-pin TSSOP. | Linear response mismatches audio perception; requires SPI host instead of I²C; lower resistance limits voltage handling and increases THD+N risk. | Choose AD5207BRUZ10 only for cost-sensitive, non-audio applications where linear taper and SPI are acceptable trade-offs. |
Compared with DS1808Z-050+, the DS1881Z-050+ adds zero-crossing detection, dual attenuation modes, and superior interchannel matching - making it suitable for premium audio. Versus AD5207BRUZ10, its logarithmic taper, I²C interface, and 45kΩ resistance deliver better fidelity and system integration for audio volume control.
Availability
DS1881Z-050+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for notebook audio, car stereo, and portable media player designs requiring stable component supply, industrial temperature operation, and long-term EEPROM reliability.
Supply support for DS1881Z-050+ 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
Maxim Integrated (now part of Analog Devices) is a semiconductor leader specializing in precision analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for demanding industrial, automotive, and communications applications.
The DS1881Z-050+ belongs to Maxim's audio-specific digital potentiometer product line, engineered for high-fidelity, low-noise, click-free volume control in consumer and automotive audio systems with strict THD+N and crosstalk requirements.
FAQ
What is the default attenuation configuration for DS1881Z-050+ at power-up?
The DS1881Z-050+ powers up with Configuration Option 1 enabled (63 × 1dB steps + mute) and zero-crossing detection active, per factory-default Configuration Register value 0x87. This setting ensures immediate compatibility with high-resolution audio volume control needs without requiring initial configuration writes.
Can DS1881Z-050+ operate with VDD = 3.3V and VCC = 5.0V simultaneously?
Yes - DS1881Z-050+ supports independent digital (VDD = 2.7–5.5V) and analog (VCC = 4.5–5.5V) supplies. Using VDD = 3.3V with VCC = 5.0V is valid and commonly deployed to interface with 3.3V microcontrollers while maintaining full 5V audio signal swing and low THD+N performance.
Does DS1881Z-050+ require external pull-up resistors on SDA and SCL lines?
Yes - DS1881Z-050+ features open-drain SDA and SCL pins requiring external pull-up resistors. Recommended values are 2.2kΩ to 4.7kΩ to VDD, sized to meet I²C rise time (tR ≤ 300ns) and bus capacitance (CB ≤ 400pF) specifications per the datasheet.
How many times can the EEPROM in DS1881Z-050+ be written before wear-out?
The DS1881Z-050+ EEPROM is rated for 50,000 write cycles at +70°C. Each write transaction updates all three memory locations (both wiper registers and config register), so repeated single-register writes accelerate wear. For longevity-critical applications, use volatile mode (bit 2 = 1) and store only on power-down.
Is DS1881Z-050+ pin-compatible with DS1808Z-050+ in 16-pin SO packages?
Yes - DS1881Z-050+ in 16-pin SO is physically pin-compatible with DS1808Z-050+, sharing identical pin count, layout, and footprint. When configured in Option 2, it also provides software compatibility with DS1808Z-050+ for 5V applications, enabling direct hardware replacement in existing designs.
DS1881Z-050+ Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 16-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Taper:
- Logarithmic
- Configuration:
- Potentiometer
- Number of Circuits:
- 2
- Number of Taps:
- 64
- Resistance (Ohms):
- 45k
- Interface:
- I2C
- Memory Type:
- Non-Volatile
- Voltage - Supply:
- 2.7V ~ 5.5V
- Features:
- Mute, Selectable Address, Zero-Cross Sense
- Tolerance:
- ±20%
- Temperature Coefficient (Typ):
- 750ppm/°C
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Supplier Device Package:
- 16-SOIC
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Resistance - Wiper (Ohms) (Typ):
- 160
DS1881Z-050+ FAQ
1.How can I place an order for DS1881Z-050+ through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for DS1881Z-050+ on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for DS1881Z-050+ reliable?
The price and inventory of DS1881Z-050+ are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for DS1881Z-050+ is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for DS1881Z-050+?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for DS1881Z-050+ transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for DS1881Z-050+?
DS1881Z-050+ orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your DS1881Z-050+ order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for DS1881Z-050+?
For technical support, including DS1881Z-050+ datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your DS1881Z-050+ requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that DS1881Z-050+ is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All DS1881Z-050+ products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that DS1881Z-050+ meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of DS1881Z-050+?
All DS1881Z-050+ units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with DS1881Z-050+, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The DS1881Z-050+ part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for DS1881Z-050+:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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