Microchip Technology MCP25050T-E/SL

Overview

MCP25050T-E/SL from Microchip Technology is a CAN v2.0B-compliant I/O expander IC with integrated 4-channel 10-bit ADC, two 10-bit PWM outputs, and eight configurable GPIOs - enabling microcontroller-less CAN node implementation in industrial sensor networks operating up to 1 Mb/s.

For engineers reviewing the MCP25050T-E/SL datasheet, MCP25050T-E/SL pinout, MCP25050T-E/SL application, or MCP25050T-E/SL equivalent, key selection considerations include its non-volatile configuration memory, auto-transmit-on-analog-threshold capability, dual receive buffers with programmable filters, and SOIC-14 package compatibility for space-constrained embedded CAN nodes.

Technical Context

The MCP25050T-E/SL integrates a full CAN protocol engine supporting standard and extended identifiers, with three prioritized transmit buffers (TXID0–TXID2), two dedicated receive buffers (RXB0/RXB1), one global acceptance mask, and two independent acceptance filters - all configurable via CAN messages or ICSP™. It implements hard synchronization at Start-of-Frame and resynchronization using programmable Sync Jump Width (1–4 TQ).

Its analog subsystem includes four 10-bit ADC channels with selectable VREF+ and VREF− inputs, while digital peripherals feature edge-triggered auto-transmit on any of eight GPIOs and two independently clocked 10-bit PWM generators - all managed by an internal state machine that loads user configuration from EEPROM on power-up without host intervention.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 14-pin SOIC (150 mil), RoHS-compliant, moisture sensitivity level (MSL) 3.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar CAN I/O expander applications.

Compared with MCP2515-I/SO and MCP25625-H/SO, the MCP25050T-E/SL uniquely combines CAN v2.0B protocol handling, 4-channel 10-bit ADC, dual 10-bit PWM, and eight GPIOs in a single SOIC-14 package - delivering true microcontroller-less node functionality without sacrificing configurability or industrial temperature range.

Availability

MCP25050T-E/SL is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor nodes, automotive body electronics, smart HVAC actuators, and heavy equipment telematics requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for MCP25050T-E/SL 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

Microchip Technology Inc. is a leading provider of microcontrollers, analog components, and connectivity solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.

The MCP250xx family was designed specifically as autonomous CAN I/O expanders - enabling cost-sensitive, space-constrained embedded systems to implement robust CAN communication without software development or external microcontroller overhead.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MCP25050T-E/SL in a CAN system?

The MCP25050T-E/SL functions as a standalone CAN v2.0B I/O expander, integrating a complete CAN protocol engine, four 10-bit ADC channels, two 10-bit PWM outputs, and eight configurable GPIOs - allowing it to operate as a fully functional CAN node without requiring an external microcontroller. Its non-volatile memory stores configuration parameters that load automatically at power-up, making the MCP25050T-E/SL ideal for fixed-function sensor and actuator nodes in industrial and automotive applications.

Does the MCP25050T-E/SL support CAN FD or only classical CAN?

The MCP25050T-E/SL supports only Classical CAN (CAN v2.0B) up to 1 Mb/s and does not support CAN FD features such as flexible data-rate or extended payload lengths. Its bit timing logic, register set, and message buffer architecture are optimized exclusively for CAN v2.0B standard and extended frame formats. For CAN FD requirements, Microchip recommends alternatives like the MCP25625-H/SO, but the MCP25050T-E/SL remains optimal for cost-sensitive, fixed-function classical CAN implementations.

How many analog input channels does the MCP25050T-E/SL have, and what is their resolution?

The MCP25050T-E/SL includes four analog input channels (AN0–AN3), each with 10-bit resolution and programmable conversion clock and reference sources (VREF+ and VREF−). These channels are accessible via GP0/AN0, GP1/AN1, GP2/AN2, and GP3/AN3 pins. The ADC supports threshold-triggered automatic CAN message generation, enabling event-driven reporting without host polling - a core capability distinguishing the MCP25050T-E/SL from basic CAN controllers.

Can the MCP25050T-E/SL operate without an external CAN transceiver?

No, the MCP25050T-E/SL cannot operate without an external CAN transceiver. It provides only the CAN protocol controller layer (TXCAN and RXCAN logic-level signals) and requires a physical layer transceiver such as the MCP2551, SN65HVD230, or ISO1050 to drive and receive differential signals on the CAN bus. The MCP25050T-E/SL's TSCAN and RXCAN pins interface directly to the transceiver's TXD and RXD lines respectively, forming a complete two-chip CAN node solution.

Is the MCP25050T-E/SL pin-compatible with other devices in the MCP2502X/5X family?

Yes, the MCP25050T-E/SL is pin-compatible with all members of the MCP2502X/5X family in the same 14-pin SOIC package, including MCP25020, MCP25025, and MCP25055. Pin assignments for VDD, VSS, OSC1/OSC2, GPIOs, and CAN I/O are identical across the family. Functional differences - such as presence of ADC (MCP2505X only) or 1-wire CAN option (MCP250X5 only) - are implemented internally and do not affect pinout or PCB layout, enabling direct substitution where feature sets align.