Microchip Technology MCP4461-104E/ST
- Part No.:
- MCP4461-104E/ST
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Digital Potentiometers
- Package:
- 20-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
MCP4461-104E/ST.pdf
- Description:
- IC DGT POT 100KOHM 257TP 20TSSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:629
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Product details
Overview
MCP4461-104E/ST from Microchip Technology is a quad-channel, 8-bit nonvolatile digital potentiometer with 100 kΩ end-to-end resistance, I²C interface, WiperLock™ technology, and EEPROM wiper storage. It operates from 2.7V to 5.5V, supports up to 3.4 MHz I²C, and delivers 257-tap resolution per channel for precision analog control in sensor calibration and power supply trimming.
For engineers reviewing the MCP4461-104E/ST datasheet, MCP4461-104E/ST pinout, MCP4461-104E/ST application, or MCP4461-104E/ST equivalent, key selection criteria include nonvolatile wiper recall, 100 kΩ RAB tolerance (±20%), 75 Ω typical wiper resistance, extended temperature range (–40°C to +125°C), and TSSOP-20 package compatibility with split-rail operation.
Technical Context
The MCP4461-104E/ST integrates four independent 8-bit resistor networks (257 taps) with configurable potentiometer or rheostat operation via terminal disconnect control (TCON registers). Each channel features nonvolatile EEPROM storage for wiper position and five general-purpose memory locations.
Its I²C interface supports Standard (100 kHz), Fast (400 kHz), and High-Speed (3.4 MHz) modes with hardware/software write protection, brown-out reset (1.5 V typical), and high-voltage tolerant inputs (up to 12.5 V), enabling robust operation in mixed-voltage industrial environments.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| RAB Resistance | 100 kΩ ±20% - defines full-scale analog attenuation range per channel |
| Resolution | 8-bit / 257 taps - enables fine-grained 0.39% step resolution across full scale |
| Wiper Resistance | 75 Ω typical - minimizes signal path distortion in low-impedance feedback loops |
| Tempco (Ratiometric) | 15 ppm/°C typical - ensures stable voltage division over temperature in potentiometer mode |
| I²C Speed Support | Up to 3.4 MHz - allows rapid wiper updates in real-time closed-loop systems |
| Operating Voltage | 2.7V to 5.5V - compatible with standard logic rails and mixed-supply designs |
| Temperature Range | –40°C to +125°C - qualified for automotive under-hood and industrial motor control |
Pinout & Package
TSSOP-20 package with 0.65 mm pitch; 20-pin surface-mount outline optimized for automated assembly and thermal performance in space-constrained PCBs.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VDD | Power supply input | 2.7–5.5 V analog/digital core supply; powers internal logic and resistor networks |
| VSS | Ground reference | Common return for all analog and digital circuitry; 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 output with weak pull-up; supports multi-master bus arbitration |
| WP | Hardware write protect | Active-low pin disabling EEPROM and wiper writes when asserted |
| RESET | Asynchronous reset input | Forces wipers to nonvolatile stored values; 50 ns minimum pulse width |
| HVC/A0 | High-voltage command / address bit | Enables WiperLock™ at ≥9.0 V; also serves as LSB of I²C slave address |
| A1 | I²C address bit | MSB of 7-bit slave address; sets device address alongside HVC/A0 |
| P0A–P0B, P1A–P1B, P2A–P2B, P3A–P3B | Resistor network terminals | Four independent A–W–B terminals; each pair forms one 100 kΩ potentiometer |
| P0W–P3W | Wiper outputs | Four analog wiper nodes; connect to feedback paths or gain-setting points |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Nonvolatile wiper storage | Automatic recall on power-up eliminates boot-time calibration in embedded systems |
| WiperLock™ technology | Prevents accidental wiper changes during system operation via high-voltage enable |
| Terminal disconnect control | TCON registers allow software-controlled isolation of A/W/B terminals for flexible rheostat use |
| Split-rail support | Operates with analog signals beyond VDD/VSS bounds using high-voltage tolerant pins |
| 5 general-purpose EEPROM locations | Stores user-defined calibration constants or configuration data alongside wiper settings |
Applications
| LED Current Control | Sensor Signal Conditioning |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Precise dimming of high-brightness LEDs in automotive lighting modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Four-channel digital potentiometer setting current-sense resistor values for individual LED strings. Use Value: Enables factory-programmed brightness matching and field-adjustable intensity without hardware changes. | Use Scenario: Calibration of bridge-based pressure sensors in industrial process transmitters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Offset and gain adjustment in instrumentation amplifier feedback networks. Use Value: Nonvolatile storage retains calibration across power cycles, reducing recalibration frequency by >90%. |
| Programmable Power Supply | Audio Volume Control |
Use Scenario: Adjustable output voltage in digitally controlled DC-DC converter feedback loops. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Replaces mechanical trimmers in voltage-divider networks for VOUT sensing. Use Value: Supports remote firmware updates to modify output setpoints without physical access. | Use Scenario: Channel-balanced volume control in professional audio mixing consoles. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual-channel attenuation for left/right stereo paths with matched tempco. Use Value: 15 ppm ratiometric tempco ensures consistent channel balance across –40°C to +125°C ambient. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar digital potentiometer applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MCP4561-104E/ST | Same 100 kΩ RAB, 8-bit, nonvolatile, but includes volatile RAM wiper shadow for faster updates | Preferred where frequent dynamic wiper adjustments are required without EEPROM wear concerns | Select MCP4561-104E/ST if system requires sub-millisecond wiper reconfiguration without EEPROM endurance limits |
| AD5204BRUZ100 | Quad 100 kΩ, 8-bit, SPI interface only; no nonvolatile storage; 200 kΩ max wiper resistance | Suitable for cost-sensitive, SPI-native systems where power-cycle wiper reset is acceptable | Choose AD5204BRUZ100 only if SPI interface is mandatory and nonvolatile recall is not required |
Compared with MCP4561-104E/ST, the MCP4461-104E/ST trades volatile RAM flexibility for guaranteed EEPROM retention and simpler I²C-only firmware integration; versus AD5204BRUZ100, it adds nonvolatility and higher I²C speed at the cost of interface inflexibility.
Availability
MCP4461-104E/ST is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for LED driver calibration, sensor signal conditioning, programmable power supplies, industrial automation interfaces, and audio equipment requiring stable component supply and long-term design continuity.
Supply support for MCP4461-104E/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 leading provider of microcontrollers, analog components, and connectivity solutions, serving automotive, industrial, and consumer markets with high-reliability silicon.
The MCP4461-104E/ST belongs to Microchip's MCP44xx/446x family of quad digital potentiometers, designed specifically for precision analog tuning in harsh-environment applications requiring nonvolatile configuration retention and wide temperature operation.
FAQ
What is the RAB resistance tolerance for the MCP4461-104E/ST?
The MCP4461-104E/ST has a nominal RAB resistance of 100 kΩ with a tolerance of ±20%, as specified in the DS22265A datasheet. This tolerance applies across the full operating temperature range (–40°C to +125°C) and is measured between terminals A and B for each of the four independent resistor networks. The actual value for a given unit falls within 80 kΩ to 120 kΩ.
Does the MCP4461-104E/ST support both potentiometer and rheostat configurations?
Yes, the MCP4461-104E/ST supports both configurations. Each of its four resistor networks can operate as a three-terminal potentiometer (A–W–B) or a two-terminal rheostat by floating either terminal A or B. Terminal disconnect is controlled via the TCON registers, allowing software-selectable rheostat mode without external component changes.
How does WiperLock™ technology function on the MCP4461-104E/ST?
WiperLock™ on the MCP4461-104E/ST prevents unintended wiper movement by requiring a high-voltage (≥9.0 V) signal on the HVC/A0 pin to enable wiper writes. When HVC/A0 is below this threshold, all wiper register updates are blocked-even via I²C-ensuring configuration stability during normal operation or ESD events.
What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the MCP4461-104E/ST?
The MCP4461-104E/ST supports I²C clock frequencies up to 3.4 MHz in High-Speed mode, provided VDD ≥ 4.5 V and bus capacitance ≤ 100 pF. At lower voltages (2.7–4.5 V), it operates at up to 400 kHz (Fast Mode), and down to 100 kHz (Standard Mode) for legacy compatibility.
Is the MCP4461-104E/ST pin-compatible with other devices in the MCP44xx family?
Yes, the MCP4461-104E/ST in TSSOP-20 is pin-compatible with MCP4441, MCP4451, and MCP4462 variants sharing the same package. However, functional differences exist: MCP4441 is 7-bit, MCP4451 lacks nonvolatile memory, and MCP4462 is configured as a quad rheostat. Pin mapping remains identical, but register behavior and default POR states differ.
MCP4461-104E/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):
- 100k
- 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
MCP4461-104E/ST FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MCP4461-104E/ST through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MCP4461-104E/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 MCP4461-104E/ST reliable?
The price and inventory of MCP4461-104E/ST are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MCP4461-104E/ST is usually 5 days.
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MCP4461-104E/ST orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MCP4461-104E/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 MCP4461-104E/ST?
For technical support, including MCP4461-104E/ST datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MCP4461-104E/ST requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MCP4461-104E/ST is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MCP4461-104E/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 MCP4461-104E/ST meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MCP4461-104E/ST?
All MCP4461-104E/ST units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MCP4461-104E/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 MCP4461-104E/ST part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MCP4461-104E/ST:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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