Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX5484ETE+T

Overview

MAX5484ETE+T from Maxim Integrated is a 10-bit, nonvolatile, linear-taper digital potentiometer configured as a 2-terminal variable resistor with 50kΩ end-to-end resistance, ±1 LSB DNL, 35ppm/°C variable-resistor temperature coefficient, and SPI/up-down interface support-used for precision gain/offset trimming in programmable amplifiers and sensor signal conditioning circuits.

For engineers reviewing the MAX5484ETE+T datasheet, MAX5484ETE+T pinout, MAX5484ETE+T application, or MAX5484ETE+T equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, TQFN-16 package layout, wiper resistance behavior across code, nonvolatile memory endurance (50,000 cycles), and real-world use cases including LCD contrast control and pressure sensor calibration.

Technical Context

The MAX5484ETE+T implements a segmented resistor ladder with 1024 tap points controlled by a 10-bit latch register, where wiper position determines resistance between W and L terminals. Its internal EEPROM stores wiper state for power-on recall, and interface mode is selected via SPI/UD pin.

It supports dual supply (±2.5V) or single supply (+2.7V to +5.25V), draws ≤1.0µA standby current, and achieves ≤12ms nonvolatile write cycle time. Ratiometric tempco is not applicable-only end-to-end TCVR of 35ppm/°C applies, per variable-resistor configuration.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX5484ETE+T is housed in a 16-pin, 3mm × 3mm × 0.8mm TQFN package with exposed pad (EP) connected to VSS. Pin 1 is H (not used in variable-resistor mode); pins 2 (W) and 3 (L) form the active variable-resistor terminals; pins 8 and 16 are VSS; pin 14 is VDD; pin 12 is CS; pins 9–11 configure interface; pins 4–7 and 15 are N.C.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with AD5243BRMZ50 and MCP45HV51-503, MAX5484ETE+T uniquely combines 10-bit resolution, dual-interface flexibility, 50kΩ precision, and industrial-grade nonvolatile reliability-making it optimal for recalibratable analog signal chains demanding long-term stability.

Availability

MAX5484ETE+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for gain and offset adjustment, LCD contrast control, pressure sensor calibration, and mechanical potentiometer replacement requiring stable component supply and guaranteed long-term sourcing.

Supply support for MAX5484ETE+T 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, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, medical, and communications systems.

The MAX5481–MAX5484 family was engineered specifically for digitally programmable resistance applications requiring nonvolatile storage, low temperature drift, and flexible digital interfaces-targeting high-reliability analog trimming and calibration.

FAQ

What is the maximum wiper current rating for MAX5484ETE+T?

The MAX5484ETE+T is rated for ±1.0mA maximum continuous current into the W and L terminals. Exceeding this limit risks nonlinear wiper resistance behavior and accelerated EEPROM degradation. This specification is validated under DC conditions with VDD = +5V and TA = +25°C, and applies across the full -40°C to +85°C operating range. Always verify current paths in your schematic before finalizing MAX5484ETE+T placement.

Does MAX5484ETE+T support dual-supply operation?

Yes, MAX5484ETE+T supports dual-supply operation with VDD = +2.5V and VSS = -2.5V, provided VDD - VSS ≤ +5.25V. In this configuration, the wiper voltage swing extends symmetrically around ground, enabling bipolar signal conditioning. The device maintains full 10-bit resolution and 35ppm/°C TCVR performance under dual-supply conditions, as confirmed in the Electrical Characteristics table on page 2 of the datasheet.

How does the nonvolatile memory in MAX5484ETE+T retain data without power?

MAX5484ETE+T uses internal EEPROM technology to store the wiper position. Data retention is specified at 50 years at +85°C and 200,000 years at +25°C. Each store operation consumes one of 50,000 guaranteed endurance cycles at +85°C. The device automatically loads the NV register contents into the volatile wiper register at power-up, ensuring consistent startup behavior without host intervention-critical for unattended MAX5484ETE+T deployments.

Can MAX5484ETE+T be used as a 3-terminal voltage divider?

No-MAX5484ETE+T is a 2-terminal variable resistor (W–L only). It is functionally distinct from the MAX5482 (50kΩ voltage divider) and lacks internal connection to the H terminal for three-point operation. Attempting to use H as an active node violates the device's architecture and invalidates all published specifications. For voltage-divider applications, select MAX5482ETE+T instead.

What is the wiper capacitance of MAX5484ETE+T and how does it affect high-frequency performance?

MAX5484ETE+T has a wiper capacitance (CW) of 60pF, measured at 1MHz with VDD = +5V. This parasitic capacitance forms a low-pass filter with RW-L, limiting usable bandwidth: at code 512 (25kΩ), -3dB point is ~105kHz; at code 1023 (50kΩ), it drops to ~53kHz. For RF or fast-switching applications, place MAX5484ETE+T upstream of active buffers or use lower codes to minimize RC time constant-verified in Figure 31 of the datasheet.