Microchip Technology MCP4017T-502E/LT

Overview

MCP4017T-502E/LT from Microchip Technology is a 7-bit volatile digital potentiometer in SC70-6 package, configured as a rheostat with 5 kΩ end-to-end resistance (±20%), 128-step resolution, and low 100 Ω typical wiper resistance. It operates from 1.8V to 5.5V, supports I²C interface up to 400 kHz, and targets precision gain/offset trimming in analog sensor signal chains.

For engineers reviewing the MCP4017T-502E/LT datasheet, MCP4017T-502E/LT pinout, MCP4017T-502E/LT application, or MCP4017T-502E/LT equivalent, key selection criteria include its rheostat-only topology, SC70-6 footprint, 50 ppm/°C absolute tempco, 2 MHz bandwidth at 5 kΩ, and lack of nonvolatile memory-requiring host MCU initialization on power-up.

Technical Context

The MCP4017T-502E/LT implements a resistor ladder network with digitally controlled wiper position, accessed via standard I²C protocol (7-bit address, write-only volatile register). Its rheostat configuration connects terminal A to the wiper (W), leaving terminal B unconnected or grounded-enabling two-terminal variable resistance applications without potentiometer voltage division.

It features brown-out reset protection (1.65 V threshold), power-on default wiper setting at mid-scale (0x3F), and operates across –40°C to +125°C. Analog characteristics are specified from 2.7V to 5.5V; full functionality (including I²C) extends down to 1.8V, though static current remains ≤5 µA at that rail.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SC70-6 package: ultra-compact 2.0 mm × 1.25 mm × 0.95 mm body, lead-free, moisture sensitivity level 1 (MSL1).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MCP4019T-502E/LT, the MCP4017T-502E/LT offers identical electrical specs but adds a dedicated B pin for flexible grounding schemes; versus MCP4532T-502E/MS, it trades nonvolatile memory for lower cost, smaller size, and simpler firmware integration.

Availability

MCP4017T-502E/LT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for temperature sensor calibration, op-amp gain trimming, and lithium battery voltage reference applications requiring stable component supply, extended temperature operation, and compact SC70 packaging.

Supply support for MCP4017T-502E/LT 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 global semiconductor company specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and timing solutions, with emphasis on reliability, longevity, and embedded system integration.

The MCP40xx family delivers low-power, I²C-compatible digital potentiometers optimized for precision analog trimming in space- and power-constrained industrial, automotive, and consumer systems.

FAQ

What is the resistance tolerance and tempco specification for the MCP4017T-502E/LT?

The MCP4017T-502E/LT has a nominal RAB resistance of 5.0 kΩ with ±20% initial tolerance. Its absolute temperature coefficient is 50 ppm/°C over 0°C to 70°C, measured across the A–B terminals. This spec ensures predictable drift in rheostat-mode applications where terminal B is grounded or left floating, and is confirmed in DS22147A-page 5 under "Nominal Resistance Tempco".

Does the MCP4017T-502E/LT support potentiometer (three-terminal) configuration?

No, the MCP4017T-502E/LT is strictly a rheostat-configured device. Unlike the MCP4018, it does not support true three-terminal potentiometer operation. Its pinout (SC70-6) and internal routing fix terminal B as non-functional in standard use-only terminals A and W are active for two-terminal variable resistance. This is explicitly stated in the device comparison table on DS22147A-page 2.

What is the power-on behavior of the MCP4017T-502E/LT wiper position?

The MCP4017T-502E/LT initializes its wiper to mid-scale (0x3F, decimal 63) on power-up or after brown-out reset. This is a hardware POR/BOR feature-not software-configurable-and applies regardless of prior volatile register state. The value is held until the first valid I²C write command updates the wiper, as documented in DS22147A-page 8 under "RAM (Wiper) Value" and page 4 "Power-on Default Wiper Setting".

Can the MCP4017T-502E/LT operate reliably at 1.8V supply voltage?

Yes, the MCP4017T-502E/LT guarantees full I²C communication and rheostat functionality at 1.8V, with static current ≤5 µA and compatible input thresholds (VIH = 0.7×VDD). However, analog performance specs-including RAB tolerance, tempco, and bandwidth-are only characterized from 2.7V to 5.5V per DS22147A-page 4 note 1. System designers must validate signal integrity at 1.8V in their specific application.

Is there an exposed thermal pad on the SC70-6 package of the MCP4017T-502E/LT?

No, the SC70-6 package used for the MCP4017T-502E/LT does not include an exposed thermal pad. Thermal resistance (θJA) is specified as 331°C/W for the 5-lead variant and "TBD" for the 6-lead version in DS22147A-page 11, confirming standard plastic molding without thermal enhancement. PCB layout should rely on standard copper pour and trace width for thermal management, not pad soldering.