Microchip Technology MCP3302-BI/SL

Overview

MCP3302-BI/SL from Microchip Technology is a 13-bit successive approximation register (SAR) analog-to-digital converter with full differential input capability, ±1 LSB INL and DNL accuracy (B-grade), 100 ksps sampling rate at 5V, and SPI serial interface. It operates from 4.5V to 5.5V supply, draws only 50 nA standby current, and supports two differential or four single-ended inputs - ideal for precision remote sensor interfacing in battery-constrained industrial systems.

For engineers reviewing the MCP3302-BI/SL datasheet, MCP3302-BI/SL pinout, MCP3302-BI/SL application, or MCP3302-BI/SL equivalent, key selection criteria include its 13-bit bipolar resolution with binary two's complement output, differential input rejection of 79 dB CMRR, 450 µA max active current, and compatibility with PIC® microcontroller SPI peripherals in space- and power-sensitive data acquisition designs.

Technical Context

The MCP3302-BI/SL implements a SAR architecture with integrated sample-and-hold circuitry, requiring 1.5 clock cycles for acquisition and 13 clock cycles for conversion. Its full differential input stage enables common-mode noise rejection, while the SPI interface uses CS/SHDN-controlled frame synchronization and edge-triggered DIN/DOUT timing.

It supports programmable input configuration (differential vs. single-ended per channel pair), accepts VREF from 0.4V to VDD, and delivers 98 µV to 1.22 mV input-referred LSB resolution depending on reference voltage. Performance is specified over –40°C to +85°C with 4.5V–5.5V supply and 5V reference.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MCP3302-BI/SL is housed in a 14-pin SOIC package (3.9 mm × 8.7 mm, 1.27 mm pitch) with exposed pad not present; pin 1 marked by notch or dot. All pins are CMOS-compatible with 0.3×VDD/0.7×VDD logic thresholds and ≤10 pF capacitance.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 13-bit SAR ADC applications.

Compared with ADS7816U and MCP3304-BI/SL, the MCP3302-BI/SL uniquely balances 13-bit differential precision, ultra-low standby current, and minimal 14-pin SOIC footprint - making it optimal for compact, battery-operated, noise-immune sensor nodes where channel count is ≤4.

Availability

MCP3302-BI/SL is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for remote sensor nodes, battery-powered data loggers, and industrial transducer interfaces requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle assurance, and consistent parametric performance across production batches.

Supply support for MCP3302-BI/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 is a U.S.-based semiconductor manufacturer specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and interface ICs for embedded control applications.

The MCP3302-BI/SL belongs to Microchip's precision SAR ADC product line, designed specifically for low-power, high-accuracy data acquisition in industrial, automotive, and portable instrumentation systems where differential noise rejection and SPI simplicity are critical.

FAQ

What input configurations does the MCP3302-BI/SL support?

The MCP3302-BI/SL supports two full differential input pairs (CH0/CH1 and CH2/CH3) or four single-ended inputs, selected via SPI command during initialization. It does not support mixed-mode operation (e.g., one differential + two single-ended). The MCP3302-BI/SL requires explicit configuration before each conversion sequence and maintains state only during active CS/SHDN low periods.

What is the minimum clock frequency required for accurate conversion with the MCP3302-BI/SL?

The MCP3302-BI/SL requires a minimum clock frequency of 105 kHz during the 13-clock-cycle conversion phase (TCONV) to prevent charge bleed from the internal sample capacitor. Slower clocks risk gain and linearity errors exceeding ±1 LSB. The MCP3302-BI/SL datasheet specifies this as an absolute timing constraint - not a recommendation - and applies regardless of sample rate or supply voltage.

Does the MCP3302-BI/SL support unipolar operation?

Yes, the MCP3302-BI/SL supports unipolar operation in single-ended mode, producing 0x0000 to 0x0FFF (0 to +4095) output codes when the negative input is tied to AGND or a fixed bias. However, its native output format remains binary two's complement - so unipolar use requires firmware offset handling. The MCP3302-BI/SL does not offer hardware-configurable unipolar mode.

How does VREF affect the LSB size and measurement range of the MCP3302-BI/SL?

LSB size = 2 × VREF / 8192. At VREF = 5.0V, LSB = 1.22 mV; at VREF = 0.4V, LSB = 98 µV. Full-scale differential input range is ±VREF, so usable analog span scales linearly with VREF. The MCP3302-BI/SL maintains ±1 LSB INL across VREF = 0.4V to 5.0V, but dynamic performance (SINAD, THD) degrades below 2.5V per characterization data.

Can the MCP3302-BI/SL operate from a 3.3V supply?

No - the MCP3302-BI/SL is not characterized or guaranteed for operation below 4.5V. While it may power up at 3.3V, DC accuracy (INL/DNL), sampling rate, and SPI timing margins fall outside specification. The datasheet explicitly defines 4.5V–5.5V as the supply range for rated performance. For 3.3V systems, consider the pin-compatible MCP3202-CI/P or MCP3204-CI/P series instead of the MCP3302-BI/SL.