Microchip Technology MCP3004-I/P

Overview

MCP3004-I/P from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 10-bit successive-approximation analog-to-digital converter (ADC) with on-chip sample-and-hold, SPI serial interface, and four single-ended or two pseudo-differential input channels. It operates from 2.7V to 5.5V, delivers up to 200 ksps at 5V, and features ±1 LSB INL/DNL over –40°C to +85°C - used in sensor signal digitization for embedded industrial controllers.

For engineers reviewing the MCP3004-I/P datasheet, MCP3004-I/P pinout, MCP3004-I/P application, or MCP3004-I/P equivalent, key selection criteria include its 4-channel programmable input configuration, low 5 nA standby current, SPI mode 0/1 compatibility, and PDIP-14 package suitability for prototyping and legacy PCB layouts.

Technical Context

The MCP3004-I/P implements a SAR architecture with a dedicated internal sample-and-hold capacitor (20 pF), acquiring analog input for 1.5 clock cycles after CS assertion. Conversion completes in 10 clock cycles, with data output MSB-first on DOUT synchronized to CLK falling edges.

Its SPI interface supports both single-ended (CH0–CH3) and pseudo-differential (e.g., CH0+/CH1–) modes via 3-bit channel-select and SGL/DIFF control bits sent on DIN. Reference voltage (VREF) directly sets full-scale range, and INL/DNL remain bounded at ±1 LSB across temperature and sampling rates up to 200 ksps at VDD = 5V.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 14-pin PDIP (0.300" wide), RoHS-compliant, through-hole mount suitable for breadboarding and production wave soldering.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with ADS7822U and MCP3204-I/P, the MCP3004-I/P uniquely balances 10-bit precision, 200 ksps speed, 5 nA standby, and flexible input configuration in a through-hole package - making it optimal for cost-sensitive industrial designs requiring robustness and ease of validation.

Availability

MCP3004-I/P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor interface, process control, and battery-operated data acquisition systems requiring stable component supply across long-lifecycle deployments.

Supply support for MCP3004-I/P 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, and Flash-IP solutions, serving industrial, automotive, and consumer markets with high-reliability silicon and development tools.

The MCP3004-I/P belongs to Microchip's precision analog product line, designed specifically for cost-effective, low-power, SPI-based data acquisition in resource-constrained embedded systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the MCP3004-I/P?

The MCP3004-I/P supports up to 3.6 MHz SPI clock frequency at VDD = 5V, and 1.35 MHz at VDD = 2.7V. Exceeding these limits may cause timing violations or data corruption. The minimum clock frequency is constrained by charge retention in the internal sample capacitor - below ~10 kHz, linearity degradation can occur, especially at elevated temperatures. Always verify timing margins using the tHI/tLO and tSU/tHD specifications in DS21295D.

Can the MCP3004-I/P operate with a 3.3V supply and still achieve full 10-bit performance?

Yes, the MCP3004-I/P is fully specified from 2.7V to 5.5V, including all DC accuracy (±1 LSB INL/DNL), dynamic performance (SINAD ≥61 dB), and timing parameters at 3.3V. At VDD = 3.3V, the maximum sampling rate drops to approximately 120 ksps, and the clock frequency limit is ~2.2 MHz. VREF should be set accordingly (e.g., 3.3V) to maintain LSB = VREF/1024 scaling.

How does pseudo-differential mode work on the MCP3004-I/P?

In pseudo-differential mode, the MCP3004-I/P treats channel pairs (CH0/CH1 or CH2/CH3) as IN+ and IN– inputs. The output code represents (IN+ − IN–) × 1024 / VREF, with IN– restricted to ±100 mV around VSS. This mode rejects common-mode noise present on both inputs but does not provide true differential input impedance or rail-to-rail common-mode range. Configuration is selected per conversion via the SGL/DIFF bit and channel bits on DIN.

Is the MCP3004-I/P pin-compatible with the MCP3008-I/P?

No, the MCP3004-I/P (14-pin PDIP) and MCP3008-I/P (16-pin PDIP/SOIC) are not pin-compatible. The MCP3004-I/P has NC pins at positions 5 and 6, while the MCP3008-I/P uses those positions for CH4 and CH5. Their pinouts differ in channel count, terminal assignment, and package footprint - PCB layout and firmware initialization must be redesigned for migration.

What decoupling is recommended for the MCP3004-I/P VDD and VREF pins?

A 0.1 µF ceramic capacitor placed as close as possible to the VDD pin (Pin 14) and a separate 0.1 µF ceramic capacitor at the VREF pin (Pin 13) are mandatory. For improved noise immunity in noisy environments, add a 10 µF tantalum or aluminum electrolytic capacitor in parallel on the VDD supply rail. AGND and DGND must be connected at a single point near the device, with separate traces routed to system ground planes.