Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX5529GUA+T

Overview

MAX5529GUA+T from Maxim Integrated is a one-time programmable, linear-taper digital potentiometer with 10kΩ end-to-end resistance, 64 wiper positions, and ±2.0mA max wiper current, designed to replace mechanical potentiometers in precision biasing and calibration circuits such as LCD contrast control and programmable filters.

For engineers reviewing the MAX5529GUA+T datasheet, MAX5529GUA+T pinout, MAX5529GUA+T application, or MAX5529GUA+T equivalent, this device offers factory-calibratable power-on wiper position, ultra-low 1.5µA static supply current, and guaranteed operation from -40°C to +105°C in an 8-pin µMAX package.

Technical Context

The MAX5529GUA+T implements a 64-position resistor ladder with linear taper, controlled via a simple 2-wire up/down interface (CS and U/D). Its one-time programmable (OTP) block allows permanent storage of the power-on wiper position using a dedicated 11V PV pin and a precise 6- or 7-pulse CS sequence.

It operates as either a three-terminal potentiometer (H–W–L) or two-terminal variable resistor (W–L or W–H), with ratiometric temperature coefficient of 10ppm/°C and end-to-end TCR of 35ppm/°C - critical for stable voltage-divider accuracy across industrial temperature ranges.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX5529GUA+T is housed in an 8-pin µMAX package (5mm × 3mm), RoHS-compliant, with exposed pad not present (unlike TDFN variant). Pin 1 is W (wiper), pin 2 is CS (chip-select), pin 3 is VDD, pin 4 is GND, pin 5 is PV (programming voltage), pin 6 is U/D (up/down control), pin 7 is L (low terminal), and pin 8 is H (high terminal).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with AD5170BRMZ-10 and MCP45HV51-103E/MS, the MAX5529GUA+T uniquely combines ultra-low power (1.5µA), OTP lockability, and compact µMAX packaging - making it optimal for battery-powered, factory-trimmed systems where post-deployment adjustment must be physically prevented.

Availability

MAX5529GUA+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for LCD biasing, programmable filtering, and factory calibration applications requiring stable component supply, long-term parametric consistency, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MAX5529GUA+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 and mixed-signal ICs for industrial, medical, and communications systems, emphasizing low-power, high-reliability performance.

The MAX5527/MAX5528/MAX5529 family was engineered specifically for mechanical potentiometer replacement in space- and power-constrained calibration circuits, with OTP functionality addressing factory-set trimming requirements.

FAQ

What is the purpose of the PV pin on the MAX5529GUA+T?

The PV pin on the MAX5529GUA+T accepts a +11V to +11.55V programming voltage exclusively during one-time programming. It enables permanent storage of the wiper position via a 6- or 7-pulse CS sequence. During normal operation, PV must be connected to GND or left floating - applying voltage otherwise risks damage or unintended programming. The MAX5529GUA+T datasheet specifies strict decoupling (22µF to GND) and parasitic limits (<250µH inductance, <40Ω resistance) for reliable OTP execution.

Can the MAX5529GUA+T be reprogrammed after initial OTP configuration?

No - the MAX5529GUA+T uses true one-time programmable memory. While a second programming attempt will not erase the first, subsequent pulses OR the new bit pattern with the existing one, resulting in unpredictable wiper positions. Maxim explicitly warns against multiple programming cycles. Once locked via the 7-pulse sequence, the MAX5529GUA+T disables the U/D interface permanently and functions as a fixed resistor divider. Reprogramming is not supported.

What is the maximum allowable wiper current for the MAX5529GUA+T?

The MAX5529GUA+T supports a maximum continuous wiper current of ±2.0mA, as specified in its Absolute Maximum Ratings table. This rating applies across the full -40°C to +105°C operating range and enables direct connection to op-amp inputs or low-impedance bias nodes without external current limiting. Exceeding ±2.0mA may cause irreversible damage or parametric shift. The MAX5529GUA+T wiper resistance is typically 75Ω at VDD = 5V, confirming safe operation within this limit for most divider configurations.

How does the MAX5529GUA+T differ from the MAX5527GUA+ and MAX5528GUA+?

The MAX5529GUA+ differs from MAX5527GUA+ (100kΩ) and MAX5528GUA+ (50kΩ) solely in end-to-end resistance value and corresponding wiper current rating: MAX5529GUA+ is 10kΩ with ±2.0mA wiper current, while MAX5527GUA+ is 100kΩ (±0.5mA) and MAX5528GUA+ is 50kΩ (±1.0mA). All share identical pinout, timing, OTP architecture, temperature range, and µMAX packaging. Selection depends strictly on required resistance value and current handling - the MAX5529GUA+ is optimal for low-impedance, higher-current bias networks.

Is the MAX5529GUA+T pin-compatible with other packages in the same family?

Yes - the MAX5529GUA+T (8-pin µMAX) shares identical pin numbering and function mapping with the MAX5529GTA+ (8-pin TDFN-EP), including W, CS, VDD, GND, PV, U/D, L, and H assignments. However, the TDFN variant includes an exposed thermal pad internally tied to GND, while the µMAX does not. Layouts must account for different land patterns and thermal requirements, but schematic connectivity and firmware interface remain fully interchangeable between the two packages.