Microchip Technology MCP3002-I/ST

Overview

MCP3002-I/ST from Microchip Technology is a 10-bit successive approximation analog-to-digital converter (ADC) with on-chip sample-and-hold, SPI serial interface (modes 0,0 and 1,1), and dual-channel programmable input configuration (single-ended or pseudo-differential). It operates from 2.7V to 5.5V, delivers up to 200 ksps at 5V, and targets sensor interface and battery-operated data acquisition systems.

For engineers reviewing the MCP3002-I/ST datasheet, MCP3002-I/ST pinout, MCP3002-I/ST application, or MCP3002-I/ST equivalent, this page provides verified electrical specifications, package-confirmed pin functions, real-world timing constraints (e.g., tSUCS = 100 ns, tDO = 125 ns at 5V), and validated alternative options for industrial-grade signal digitization.

Technical Context

The MCP3002-I/ST uses a SAR architecture with internal 20 pF sample capacitor and 1KΩ switch resistance. Conversion begins on the second rising CLK edge after the start bit, with 1.5 clock cycles allocated for sampling and 10 clock cycles for bit-by-bit conversion - total conversion time is fixed at 10 clock cycles.

It supports two analog input configurations via SPI command bits: dual single-ended (CH0 and CH1 referenced to VSS) or pseudo-differential (CH0 as IN+, CH1 as IN−, with IN− limited to ±100 mV of VSS). Reference voltage is tied directly to VDD, making LSB size voltage-dependent (VDD/1024).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MCP3002-I/ST is packaged in an 8-pin TSSOP (Thin Shrink Small Outline Package), with 0.65 mm lead pitch and exposed pad not connected internally. Pin functions are electrically validated per DS21294E and match all 8-pin variants (MSOP, SOIC, PDIP).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 10-bit SAR ADC applications.

Compared with MCP3002-E/ST, the MCP3002-I/ST trades extended temperature capability for lower unit cost while retaining identical performance at ≤+85°C; versus ADS7822U, it sacrifices 2 bits of resolution for integrated VDD-referencing and reduced system-level component count.

Availability

MCP3002-I/ST is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor interface, portable data acquisition, and process control applications requiring stable component supply and guaranteed long-term manufacturability.

Supply support for MCP3002-I/ST 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 U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and memory products for embedded control applications.

The MCP3002-I/ST belongs to Microchip's precision analog product line, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, low-power, multi-channel data acquisition in industrial and instrumentation systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the MCP3002-I/ST at 3.3V operation?

The MCP3002-I/ST does not specify timing parameters at exactly 3.3V. Per DS21294E, max fCLK is 3.2 MHz at VDD = 5V and 1.2 MHz at VDD = 2.7V. At 3.3V, interpolation yields ~2.0–2.3 MHz; however, design margin requires derating to ≤2.0 MHz. The MCP3002-I/ST must also meet minimum clock speed requirements (≥10 kHz above 70°C) to prevent sample capacitor discharge-induced INL errors.

Can the MCP3002-I/ST perform true differential measurements?

No - the MCP3002-I/ST supports only pseudo-differential mode, where CH0 serves as IN+ and CH1 as IN−, but IN− is restricted to ±100 mV around VSS. It cannot measure fully floating differential signals like an instrumentation amplifier. The MCP3002-I/ST output code is 000h if IN+ ≤ IN−, and 3FFh if IN+ ≥ [VDD + (IN−)] − 1 LSB - confirming its asymmetric, referenced architecture.

How does VDD variation affect the accuracy of the MCP3002-I/ST?

VDD directly sets the reference voltage, so LSB size = VDD/1024. A ±5% VDD shift causes ±5% full-scale error, visible as gain error. DS21294E shows gain error remains within ±1 LSB across 2.7–5.5V, but system-level accuracy requires stable VDD - e.g., using a dedicated LDO rather than noisy switched-mode supply rails. The MCP3002-I/ST does not include internal reference trimming to compensate.

Is the MCP3002-I/ST pin-compatible with the MCP3004 or MCP3008?

No - the MCP3002-I/ST is an 8-pin device with two analog inputs, while MCP3004 (14-pin) and MCP3008 (16-pin) offer 4 and 8 channels respectively. They share SPI protocol and command structure but differ in pin count, package, and channel multiplexing logic. Replacing MCP3002-I/ST with either requires PCB redesign and firmware adaptation for additional channel addressing.

What is the purpose of the null bit in MCP3002-I/ST SPI communication?

The null bit is the first bit output on DOUT after the MSBF bit falls - it is always low and serves as a timing anchor to separate command reception from data transmission. It ensures synchronization between host MCU and MCP3002-I/ST, especially when using 8-bit SPI peripherals that require byte-aligned transfers. The MCP3002-I/ST then outputs 10 data bits (B9–B0) MSB-first, beginning on the next falling CLK edge.