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Microchip Technology MCP4461-103E/ST
- Part No.:
- MCP4461-103E/ST
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Digital Potentiometers
- Package:
- 20-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
MCP4461-103E/ST.pdf
- Description:
- IC DGT POT 10KOHM 257TAP 20TSSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:737
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Product details
Overview
MCP4461-103E/ST from Microchip Technology is a quad-channel, 8-bit nonvolatile digital potentiometer with 10 kΩ end-to-end resistance per channel, I²C interface, WiperLock™ technology, and EEPROM-based wiper recall. It operates from 2.7V to 5.5V, supports up to 3.4 MHz I²C, and delivers 257-tap resolution with 75 Ω typical wiper resistance - used for precision gain/offset trimming in sensor signal conditioning circuits.
For engineers reviewing the MCP4461-103E/ST datasheet, MCP4461-103E/ST pinout, MCP4461-103E/ST application, or MCP4461-103E/ST equivalent, key selection criteria include nonvolatile wiper storage, quad independent channels, 10 kΩ RAB value, TSSOP-20 package compatibility, and support for extended temperature (–40°C to +125°C) industrial environments.
Technical Context
The MCP4461-103E/ST integrates four independent 8-bit resistor networks (257 taps), each configurable as potentiometer or rheostat via terminal disconnect control (TCON registers). Its I²C interface supports Standard (100 kHz), Fast (400 kHz), and High-Speed (3.4 MHz) modes with hardware/software write protection and brown-out reset at 1.65 V.
Nonvolatile memory includes five 9-bit general-purpose EEPROM locations and automatic recall of wiper settings on power-up. The device features high-voltage tolerant digital inputs (up to 12.5 V), internal weak pull-ups (except SDA/SCL), and resistor terminal voltage range from VSS to VDD - enabling split-rail analog operation and robust noise immunity in mixed-signal systems.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| RAB Resistance | 10 kΩ ±20% - defines full-scale analog attenuation/gain range per channel |
| Resolution | 8-bit / 257 taps - enables fine-grained adjustment with no missing codes |
| Wiper Resistance | 75 Ω typical - minimizes insertion error in low-impedance feedback paths |
| I²C Speed Support | Up to 3.4 MHz - allows rapid wiper updates in real-time calibration loops |
| Tempco (Ratiometric) | 15 ppm/°C typical - ensures stable voltage-divider ratio over –40°C to +125°C |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.7V to 5.5V - compatible with standard logic rails and industrial 3.3V/5V systems |
| Nonvolatile Memory | EEPROM wiper + 5×9-bit GP locations - retains settings across power cycles without external backup |
Pinout & Package
TSSOP-20 package with 0.65 mm pitch; 20-pin surface-mount outline optimized for compact PCB layout and thermal performance in industrial modules.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VDD | Power supply input | 2.7–5.5 V analog/digital supply; powers internal logic and resistor networks |
| VSS | Ground reference | Common return for analog and digital sections; must be low-impedance |
| SCL | I²C clock input | Accepts 100 kHz–3.4 MHz clock; Schmitt-triggered for noise immunity |
| SDA | I²C bidirectional data | Open-drain, supports multi-master bus; requires external pull-up |
| WP | Hardware write protect | Active-low pin; disables EEPROM and wiper writes when asserted |
| RESET | Asynchronous reset input | Active-low; forces all wipers to nonvolatile stored values on deassertion |
| HVC/A0 | High-voltage command / address bit | Enables WiperLock™ when >9 V; also serves as LSB of I²C address |
| A1 | I²C address bit | MSB of 7-bit I²C slave address; sets device address with HVC/A0 |
| P0A–P0B, P1A–P1B, P2A–P2B, P3A–P3B | Resistor network terminals | Four independent A–W–B terminals; each channel configurable as pot or rheostat |
| P0W–P3W | Wiper outputs | Low-impedance variable tap points; 75 Ω typical resistance to A/B terminals |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| WiperLock™ Technology | Prevents accidental wiper changes during system operation by requiring high-voltage (≥9 V) command sequence |
| Automatic NV Recall | Wiper positions restore from EEPROM on power-up or RESET release - eliminates startup calibration |
| Terminal Disconnect Control | TCON registers allow software-controlled disconnection of any A/W/B terminal - enables true rheostat mode or open-circuit isolation |
| Extended Temp Range | Specified operation from –40°C to +125°C - suitable for under-hood automotive, industrial motor drives, and outdoor equipment |
| High-Voltage Tolerant Inputs | Digital pins withstand up to 12.5 V - simplifies level-shifting in mixed-voltage systems and enables direct connection to 12 V control rails |
Applications
| Programmable Gain Amplifier Calibration | Sensor Offset Trimming |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Adjusting feedback resistor ratio in instrumentation amplifiers to calibrate gain across production batches. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Quad digital potentiometer providing four independent, nonvolatile gain-setting resistors in op-amp feedback paths. Use Value: Eliminates manual trimmer replacement; enables factory calibration storage and field recalibration via I²C without hardware change. | Use Scenario: Compensating zero-point drift in pressure, temperature, or current-sense transducers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Precision rheostat configuration injecting adjustable offset voltage into sensor signal chain before ADC. Use Value: 15 ppm/°C ratiometric tempco ensures stable offset over temperature; 10 kΩ value matches typical bridge sensor impedances. |
| LED Brightness Control | Industrial DAC Output Scaling |
Use Scenario: Setting current-limit thresholds in constant-current LED drivers for multi-zone lighting systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Rheostat-mode channel controlling reference voltage of current-sense amplifier in buck driver IC. Use Value: 257-step resolution enables smooth dimming curves; nonvolatile storage retains last brightness setting after power loss. | Use Scenario: Scaling full-scale output of 12-bit DACs to match varying actuator input ranges (e.g., 0–5 V, 0–10 V, ±10 V). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Potentiometer-mode channel acting as programmable voltage divider between DAC output and load. Use Value: 10 kΩ RAB minimizes loading on DAC output; 75 Ω wiper resistance preserves linearity at full scale. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar digital potentiometer applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MCP4461-103E/ML | Same electrical specs; QFN-20 (4×4 mm) package instead of TSSOP-20 | Higher thermal dissipation (2320 mW vs. 1110 mW); smaller footprint but requires reflow-compatible layout | Select for space-constrained or thermally demanding designs where QFN assembly is supported. |
| AD5204BRUZ10 | Quad 8-bit volatile pot; 10 kΩ RAB; SPI interface; no EEPROM or WiperLock™ | Lacks nonvolatile storage and hardware write protection; requires external MCU to retain settings | Choose when cost sensitivity outweighs need for autonomous power-cycle recovery and secure wiper control. |
Compared with MCP4461-103E/ML and AD5204BRUZ10, the MCP4461-103E/ST provides guaranteed TSSOP-20 compatibility, integrated EEPROM recall, and WiperLock™ security - making it optimal for industrial field devices requiring unattended recalibration and tamper-resistant parameter retention.
Availability
MCP4461-103E/ST is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, programmable power supply setpoints, and embedded system trim applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.
Supply support for MCP4461-103E/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 leading provider of microcontrollers, analog components, and connectivity solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.
The MCP446X family is designed for precision analog tuning in harsh environments - delivering nonvolatile digital potentiometer functionality with industrial-grade temperature range, I²C flexibility, and robust ESD/EMI resilience.
FAQ
What is the RAB resistance value of the MCP4461-103E/ST?
The MCP4461-103E/ST has a nominal end-to-end resistance of 10 kΩ per channel, with a tolerance of ±20% across temperature and process variation. This value is confirmed in the Electrical Characteristics table (DS22265A-page 5) under "Resistance (±20%)" for -103 devices, and applies to all four independent potentiometer channels.
Does the MCP4461-103E/ST retain wiper settings after power loss?
Yes, the MCP4461-103E/ST retains wiper positions in nonvolatile EEPROM memory and automatically recalls them on power-up or RESET deassertion. This behavior is enabled by default and does not require external circuitry - a key differentiator from volatile digital pots like the AD5204 series.
What package type is used for the MCP4461-103E/ST?
The MCP4461-103E/ST uses the TSSOP-20 package, a 20-pin thin shrink small-outline package with 0.65 mm lead pitch. This is explicitly listed in the "Package Types" section (DS22265A-page 1) and confirmed in the part number suffix "/ST", where "ST" denotes TSSOP.
Can the MCP4461-103E/ST operate from a 3.3 V supply?
Yes, the MCP4461-103E/ST operates fully across 2.7 V to 5.5 V, including standard 3.3 V systems. All specifications - including I²C timing, wiper resolution, and tempco - are guaranteed within this range, with DC characteristics tested down to 2.7 V and functional operation validated from 1.8 V (serial interface only).
How does WiperLock™ technology work on the MCP4461-103E/ST?
WiperLock™ prevents unintended wiper changes by requiring a high-voltage (≥9.0 V) pulse on the HVC/A0 pin to enter programming mode. Once enabled, standard I²C commands can modify wiper positions; otherwise, writes are ignored. This feature is documented in the "Device Features" table (DS22265A-page 2) and AC characteristics (DS22265A-page 10).
MCP4461-103E/ST Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- WiperLock™
- Package/Case:
- 20-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Taper:
- Linear
- Configuration:
- Potentiometer
- Number of Circuits:
- 4
- Number of Taps:
- 257
- Resistance (Ohms):
- 10k
- Interface:
- I2C
- Memory Type:
- Non-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
MCP4461-103E/ST FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MCP4461-103E/ST through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MCP4461-103E/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 MCP4461-103E/ST reliable?
The price and inventory of MCP4461-103E/ST are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MCP4461-103E/ST is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MCP4461-103E/ST?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MCP4461-103E/ST transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MCP4461-103E/ST?
MCP4461-103E/ST orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MCP4461-103E/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 MCP4461-103E/ST?
For technical support, including MCP4461-103E/ST datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MCP4461-103E/ST requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MCP4461-103E/ST is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MCP4461-103E/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 MCP4461-103E/ST meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MCP4461-103E/ST?
All MCP4461-103E/ST units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MCP4461-103E/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 MCP4461-103E/ST part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MCP4461-103E/ST:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MCP4461-103E/ST Tags
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MCP4018T-103E/LT
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MCP4018T-503E/LT
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