Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX5432META+

Overview

MAX5432META+ from Maxim Integrated is a 32-tap, nonvolatile, I²C-compatible digital potentiometer in an 8-pin TDFN-EP package, providing 50kΩ end-to-end resistance, ±0.15 LSB typical INL/DNL, and 35ppm/°C end-to-end temperature coefficient. It replaces mechanical potentiometers in precision biasing, programmable gain, and LCD contrast control circuits with power-on wiper recall.

For engineers reviewing the MAX5432META+ datasheet, MAX5432META+ pinout, MAX5432META+ application, or MAX5432META+ equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, I²C timing constraints (400kbps), thermal performance data, and real-world use cases for low-drift analog tuning in industrial and embedded systems.

Technical Context

The MAX5432META+ implements a 31-element resistor ladder with 5-bit wiper addressing, supporting both voltage-divider and variable-resistor configurations. Its internal EEPROM retains wiper position across power cycles, with guaranteed 200,000 store cycles and 50-year data retention at +85°C.

It uses a standard I²C interface with factory-programmed 7-bit slave address (010110A0) and supports command-driven volatile/nonvolatile register transfers. The device operates from +2.7V to +5.25V, draws only 0.5µA in standby, and features 5ppm/°C ratiometric tempco for stable divider ratios.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX5432META+ is housed in an 8-pin TDFN-EP (3mm × 3mm) package with exposed pad (EP) internally connected to GND. This thermally enhanced package supports high-density PCB layouts and improves power dissipation during continuous operation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with AD5172BRMZ-50 and MCP45HV51-502E/MS, the MAX5432META+ trades resolution and tolerance for guaranteed power-on repeatability, ultra-low standby current, and optimized thermal stability in compact 3×3mm packaging-ideal for space-constrained, battery-aware, or calibration-critical designs.

Availability

MAX5432META+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for LCD contrast control, programmable gain amplifiers, adjustable voltage references, and programmable filter applications requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence support.

Supply support for MAX5432META+ 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) designs precision analog and mixed-signal ICs for industrial, medical, and communications applications, emphasizing low power, high accuracy, and integration.

The MAX5432–MAX5435 family targets digitally programmable analog tuning where mechanical reliability, temperature stability, and autonomous power-up behavior are critical-especially in embedded systems with constrained space and power budgets.

FAQ

What is the I²C slave address for MAX5432META+?

The MAX5432META+ has a factory-programmed 7-bit I²C slave address of 010110A0, where A0 is the logic state of pin 6. When A0 = GND, the address is 0x54; when A0 = VDD, it is 0x55. This allows two devices to share the same I²C bus without address conflict. The MAX5432META+ datasheet confirms this mapping in the Ordering Information table.

Does MAX5432META+ retain wiper position after power cycling?

Yes, the MAX5432META+ automatically recalls its last wiper position at power-up using on-chip EEPROM. This nonvolatile memory is guaranteed for 200,000 write cycles and 50 years of data retention at +85°C. The power-on reset circuitry transfers stored data to the volatile register within 20µs, ensuring immediate operational readiness without host intervention.

What is the maximum operating voltage on the wiper terminal of MAX5432META+?

The wiper terminal (pin 8) of the MAX5432META+ must remain within the GND-to-VDD range at all times. Absolute maximum ratings specify that voltages on H, L, and W must not exceed (VDD + 0.3V) or fall below –0.3V. Exceeding this violates the device's safe operating area and may cause latchup or permanent damage. This constraint applies to all operating modes.

Can MAX5432META+ be used in a 3-terminal voltage-divider configuration?

Yes, the MAX5432META+ supports full 3-terminal operation: H (pin 1), L (pin 7), and W (pin 8) are independently accessible. In voltage-divider mode, H connects to VDD, L to GND, and W serves as the adjustable output node. The device's ±0.15 LSB INL and 5ppm/°C ratiometric tempco ensure accurate, temperature-stable division ratios-critical for precision reference and gain-setting applications.

How long does it take to store a wiper position to nonvolatile memory in MAX5432META+?

Writing to the nonvolatile memory register of the MAX5432META+ requires a minimum idle time of 12ms after the STOP condition of the I²C command sequence. During this period, the internal EEPROM programming cycle completes. Host firmware must enforce this delay before issuing subsequent commands; failure to do so risks incomplete writes or corrupted wiper recall behavior. This timing is specified in the Timing Characteristics table.