Microchip Technology MCP4451T-503E/ST
- Part No.:
- MCP4451T-503E/ST
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Digital Potentiometers
- Package:
- 20-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
MCP4451T-503E/ST.pdf
- Description:
- IC DGT POT 50KOHM 257TAP 20TSSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
MCP4451T-503E/ST from Microchip Technology is a volatile 8-bit quad digital potentiometer with I²C interface, 50 kΩ RAB resistance, TSSOP-20 package, and mid-scale power-on wiper reset. It delivers 257-tap resolution, 75 Ω typical wiper resistance, ±0.5 LSb INL (potentiometer mode), and supports 3.4 MHz I²C for precision gain/offset trimming in analog front-ends.
For engineers reviewing the MCP4451T-503E/ST datasheet, MCP4451T-503E/ST pinout, MCP4451T-503E/ST application, or MCP4451T-503E/ST equivalent, key selection criteria include its 50 kΩ end-to-end resistance, 8-bit resolution, TSSOP-20 footprint, extended temperature range (–40°C to +125°C), and support for split-rail analog operation with 1.8V–5.5V VDD.
Technical Context
The MCP4451T-503E/ST integrates four independent 8-bit resistor networks, each configurable as potentiometer or rheostat via terminal disconnect control (TCON registers). Its I²C interface operates at 100 kHz, 400 kHz, or 3.4 MHz, enabling high-speed wiper updates without CPU intervention.
Each RAB network features low 75 Ω typical wiper resistance and 50 ppm/°C absolute tempco (0°C–70°C), ensuring stable analog signal conditioning across industrial temperature ranges. Brown-out reset triggers at ~1.5 V, and all digital inputs tolerate up to 12.5 V, supporting mixed-voltage system interfacing.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| RAB Resistance | 50 kΩ ±20% - defines full-scale analog attenuation/gain range for sensor biasing or amplifier feedback |
| Resolution | 8-bit / 257 taps - enables fine-grained 0.39% step resolution for precision calibration |
| Wiper Resistance | 75 Ω typical - minimizes insertion error in low-impedance signal paths (e.g., audio volume control) |
| I²C Speed | Up to 3.4 MHz - allows sub-10 µs wiper updates, suitable for real-time closed-loop trimming |
| Tempco (Absolute) | 50 ppm/°C typical (0°–70°C) - ensures <±0.35% resistance drift over commercial temperature range |
| Operating Voltage | 1.8V–5.5V VDD - supports direct interface with 1.8V logic and 5V analog rails |
| Temperature Range | –40°C to +125°C - qualified for under-hood automotive and industrial motor control environments |
Pinout & Package
TSSOP-20 package with 0.65 mm pitch; 6.5 mm × 4.4 mm body size; exposed pad not present. Pinout optimized for dual-supply analog routing and I²C bus isolation.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VDD | Positive supply | 1.8V–5.5V analog/digital rail; powers internal logic and resistor networks |
| VSS | Ground reference | Analog/digital common return; must be low-impedance for noise-sensitive applications |
| SCL | I²C clock input | Accepts standard-mode (100 kHz), fast-mode (400 kHz), or high-speed (3.4 MHz) clocks |
| SDA | I²C bidirectional data | Open-drain output with weak pull-up; supports multi-master bus arbitration |
| RESET | Asynchronous reset | Active-low signal forcing all wipers to mid-scale (80h) and clearing TCON registers |
| HVC/A0 | High-voltage enable / address bit | Enables WiperLock™ when driven >9 V; also serves as LSB of I²C slave address |
| A1 | I²C address bit | MSB of 7-bit I²C slave address; sets device address alongside HVC/A0 |
| P0A–P0B, P1A–P1B, P2A–P2B, P3A–P3B | Resistor network terminals | Four independent A–W–B networks; A/B define end points, W is wiper contact |
| P0W–P3W | Wiper outputs | Low-impedance sliding contacts; connect to op-amp inputs or feedback nodes |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Quad 8-bit RAB networks | Four independent 50 kΩ potentiometers on one die-reduces board space vs. discrete trimmers and simplifies BOM |
| Mid-scale POR wiper setting | Wipers initialize to code 0x80 (128/256) at power-up-ensures known startup gain/attenuation without host initialization |
| Terminal disconnect via TCON | Software-controllable open-circuit of any A/W/B terminal-enables true rheostat mode or safe signal isolation |
| 12.5 V tolerant digital inputs | HVC/A0, A1, SCL, SDA, RESET accept up to 12.5 V-allows direct connection to 5 V or 12 V control logic without level shifters |
| Split-rail analog support | Operates with VA/VB biased outside VDD–VSS range (e.g., ±5 V)-enables bipolar signal conditioning in op-amp circuits |
Applications
| Programmable Gain Amplifier | DC Offset Calibration |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Adjusting gain of instrumentation amplifier in data acquisition systems using feedback resistor ratio. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MCP4451T-503E/ST provides digitally controlled 50 kΩ feedback path; wiper position sets precise gain (e.g., 1× to 100×). Use Value: Eliminates manual potentiometer tuning; enables factory/software calibration with 0.39% step resolution and <±0.35% tempco drift. | Use Scenario: Nulling DC offset in precision sensor signal chains (e.g., load cell, thermocouple amplifiers). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MCP4451T-503E/ST injects adjustable correction voltage into summing node via one potentiometer leg. Use Value: Achieves sub-mV offset correction stability over –40°C to +125°C with 75 Ω wiper resistance minimizing injection error. |
| Laser Diode Bias Control | Audio Channel Balance |
Use Scenario: Setting precise bias current for telecom laser diodes requiring stable optical output power. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MCP4451T-503E/ST configures as rheostat in constant-current source feedback loop controlling LM317-based driver. Use Value: 8-bit resolution enables <1% current step control; 3.4 MHz I²C allows dynamic power-level adjustment during burst-mode transmission. | Use Scenario: Independent left/right channel volume control in professional audio mixers with digital recall. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MCP4451T-503E/ST implements two matched 50 kΩ potentiometers (P0, P1) for stereo attenuation with simultaneous update. Use Value: Low 75 Ω wiper resistance preserves high-frequency response (>2 MHz bandwidth at 5 kΩ equivalent); TSSOP-20 layout minimizes crosstalk. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar digital potentiometer applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| AD5204BRUZ10 | Quad 8-bit, 10 kΩ RAB, SPI interface, no HVC pin, 2.7–5.5 V only | Lacks high-voltage input tolerance and split-rail analog support; requires separate level-shifting for 12 V control | Select when SPI is preferred and 10 kΩ resistance suffices for lower-power biasing |
| MCP4551T-503E/ST | Same pinout and specs, but with EEPROM wiper memory (non-volatile) | Retains last wiper position after power cycle; eliminates host re-initialization requirement | Select when power-loss retention is critical and cost premium for EEPROM is acceptable |
Compared with AD5204BRUZ10 and MCP4551T-503E/ST, the MCP4451T-503E/ST uniquely combines 12.5 V tolerant I²C control, split-rail analog operation, and volatile mid-scale POR-making it optimal for industrial sensor interfaces where robustness and known startup state outweigh non-volatility needs.
Availability
MCP4451T-503E/ST is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for programmable gain amplifiers, DC offset calibration circuits, laser diode bias control, and audio channel balance applications requiring stable component supply and guaranteed long-term sourcing.
Supply support for MCP4451T-503E/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 is a U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and interface ICs, with emphasis on reliability and long-lifecycle support for industrial and automotive markets.
The MCP44xx/45xx family is designed for precision analog trimming in harsh environments-delivering calibrated resistance control with integrated I²C, wide voltage operation, and extended temperature qualification.
FAQ
What is the RAB resistance value and tolerance for MCP4451T-503E/ST?
The MCP4451T-503E/ST has a nominal end-to-end resistance (RAB) of 50 kΩ with a tolerance of ±20%, as specified in the DS22267A datasheet. This value is measured between terminals A and B of each resistor network at room temperature and applies across the full operating voltage and temperature range.
Does MCP4451T-503E/ST retain wiper settings after power cycling?
No, the MCP4451T-503E/ST uses volatile RAM for wiper storage and resets to mid-scale (code 0x80) on power-up or brown-out. It does not include EEPROM; for non-volatile retention, consider the pin-compatible MCP4551T-503E/ST variant.
Can MCP4451T-503E/ST operate with analog signals beyond the VDD–VSS range?
Yes, MCP4451T-503E/ST supports split-rail operation: terminals A, W, and B can be biased between VSS and VDD + 0.3 V, enabling use in bipolar op-amp configurations (e.g., ±5 V supplies) without damage or performance degradation.
What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by MCP4451T-503E/ST?
The MCP4451T-503E/ST supports I²C up to 3.4 MHz in high-speed mode, provided VDD ≥ 4.5 V and bus capacitance ≤ 100 pF. At lower VDD (2.7–4.5 V), it operates at up to 400 kHz; at 1.8–2.7 V, max speed is 100 kHz.
How does the RESET pin function on MCP4451T-503E/ST?
The RESET pin is active-low and asynchronously forces all four wipers to mid-scale (0x80), clears TCON registers to reconnect all terminals, and resets internal logic. A minimum 50 ns pulse width is required, and the device exits reset within 10–20 µs after VDD exceeds the 1.5 V brown-out threshold.
MCP4451T-503E/ST Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 20-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Taper:
- Linear
- Configuration:
- Potentiometer
- Number of Circuits:
- 4
- Number of Taps:
- 257
- Resistance (Ohms):
- 50k
- Interface:
- I2C
- Memory Type:
- Volatile
- Voltage - Supply:
- 1.8V ~ 5.5V
- Features:
- Mute, Selectable Address
- Tolerance:
- ±20%
- Temperature Coefficient (Typ):
- 150ppm/°C
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Supplier Device Package:
- 20-TSSOP
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C
- Resistance - Wiper (Ohms) (Typ):
- 75
MCP4451T-503E/ST FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MCP4451T-503E/ST through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MCP4451T-503E/ST on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MCP4451T-503E/ST reliable?
The price and inventory of MCP4451T-503E/ST are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MCP4451T-503E/ST is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MCP4451T-503E/ST?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MCP4451T-503E/ST transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MCP4451T-503E/ST?
MCP4451T-503E/ST orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MCP4451T-503E/ST order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MCP4451T-503E/ST?
For technical support, including MCP4451T-503E/ST datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MCP4451T-503E/ST requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MCP4451T-503E/ST is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MCP4451T-503E/ST products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MCP4451T-503E/ST meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MCP4451T-503E/ST?
All MCP4451T-503E/ST units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MCP4451T-503E/ST, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MCP4451T-503E/ST part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MCP4451T-503E/ST:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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