Microchip Technology MCP4462T-103E/ST
- Part No.:
- MCP4462T-103E/ST
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Digital Potentiometers
- Package:
- 14-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
MCP4462T-103E/ST.pdf
- Description:
- IC DGT POT 10KOHM 257TAP 14TSSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
MCP4462T-103E/ST from Microchip Technology is a quad-channel, nonvolatile I²C digital rheostat with 8-bit resolution (257 taps), 10 kΩ end-to-end resistance, WiperLock™ technology, and EEPROM-based wiper recall. It operates from 2.7V to 5.5V, supports I²C up to 3.4 MHz, and delivers 75 Ω typical wiper resistance for precision analog control in programmable gain amplifiers and sensor calibration circuits.
For engineers reviewing the MCP4462T-103E/ST datasheet, MCP4462T-103E/ST pinout, MCP4462T-103E/ST application, or MCP4462T-103E/ST equivalent, key selection criteria include its rheostat-only configuration, 10 kΩ RAB tolerance (±20%), 15 ppm/°C ratiometric tempco, terminal disconnect via TCON register, and support for split-rail analog interfaces with high-voltage tolerant digital inputs up to 12.5V.
Technical Context
The MCP4462T-103E/ST implements four independent rheostat networks-each with A, W, and B terminals-configured exclusively for variable-resistor operation (no potentiometer mode). Its internal EEPROM stores wiper positions and five general-purpose memory locations, enabling automatic recall after power-up and persistent configuration across cycles.
Control is handled via an I²C interface supporting Standard (100 kHz), Fast (400 kHz), and High-Speed (3.4 MHz) modes, with hardware write protection (WP pin), software-configurable write lock, and dedicated RESET input. The device includes brown-out reset (1.65 V threshold), serial interface inactive current of 2.5 µA, and terminal disconnect capability per channel through the TCON register.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| RAB Resistance | 10 kΩ ±20% - defines maximum adjustable resistance per channel; used directly in current-setting and biasing applications. |
| Resolution | 8-bit (257 taps) - enables fine-grained adjustment with 39.2 Ω step size (10 kΩ / 256); no missing codes guaranteed. |
| Wiper Resistance | 75 Ω typical - minimizes insertion error in series rheostat configurations; critical for low-offset current-sense paths. |
| Ratiometric Tempco | 15 ppm/°C - ensures stable resistance ratio between channels over temperature; essential for matched gain control. |
| I²C Speed Support | Up to 3.4 MHz - allows rapid wiper updates in real-time closed-loop systems without bus contention. |
| Operating Voltage | 2.7V–5.5V (characterized), 1.8V–5.5V (functional) - supports mixed-supply designs and battery-backed operation down to 1.8V logic. |
| Terminal Disconnect | Per-channel via TCON register - electrically isolates resistor terminals to eliminate leakage paths during standby or fault conditions. |
Pinout & Package
Package: TSSOP-20 (4.4 mm × 6.5 mm, 0.65 mm pitch), lead-free, RoHS-compliant.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VDD | Power supply | Primary analog/digital supply rail (2.7–5.5 V); powers internal logic, EEPROM, and resistor networks. |
| VSS | Ground reference | Analog and digital common return; must be low-impedance for accurate wiper voltage referencing. |
| SCL | I²C clock input | Drives synchronous communication; Schmitt-triggered, supports 100 kHz–3.4 MHz timing. |
| SDA | I²C data bidirectional | Open-drain I/O with weak pull-up; handles read/write commands and status responses. |
| WP | Hardware write protect | Active-low pin disabling all EEPROM writes and wiper changes when asserted. |
| RESET | Asynchronous reset | Forces wipers to POR state (080h) and clears volatile registers; 50 ns minimum pulse width. |
| HVC/A0 | High-voltage command / address bit | Enables WiperLock™ when driven >9 V; also serves as LSB of I²C slave address (A1/A0). |
| A1 | I²C slave address bit | MSB of 7-bit slave address; combined with HVC/A0 determines device address on bus. |
| P0A–P3B | Rheostat terminals | Four independent A/W/B sets (P0A/P0W/P0B through P3A/P3W/P3B); A and B are fixed endpoints, W is wiper. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Nonvolatile wiper storage | EEPROM retains last wiper position across power cycles; eliminates need for external initialization firmware. |
| WiperLock™ technology | Prevents accidental wiper changes via high-voltage (≥9 V) signal on HVC/A0; avoids runtime corruption in noisy environments. |
| Terminal disconnect (TCON) | Software-controlled isolation of each rheostat's A/W/B terminals; reduces system leakage and enables dynamic reconfiguration. |
| Split-rail compatibility | Digital inputs tolerate up to 12.5 V regardless of VDD level; allows interfacing with higher-voltage controllers or mixed-supply systems. |
| Brown-out reset (BOR) | Resets internal logic when VDD drops below ~1.65 V; prevents erratic behavior during power ramp-up or brownout events. |
Applications
| Programmable Gain Amplifier | Sensor Offset Calibration |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Adjusting feedback resistance in op-amp circuits to dynamically set gain across multiple ranges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Rheostat network acts as digitally controlled feedback element; updated via I²C at system initialization or during runtime calibration. Use Value: Enables 257-step gain resolution with nonvolatile storage, eliminating manual trimpots and supporting auto-calibration sequences. | Use Scenario: Compensating for zero-point drift in bridge-based pressure or load-cell sensors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Series rheostat injects precise offset current into sensor excitation path; adjusted during factory calibration and stored in EEPROM. Use Value: Achieves <±0.1% offset correction stability over –40°C to +125°C using 15 ppm/°C ratiometric tracking. |
| Laser Diode Bias Control | Industrial Current Loop Setpoint |
Use Scenario: Setting precise bias current for laser diodes in optical transceivers or industrial marking systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Rheostat placed in series with laser driver's sense resistor; wiper position determines compliance current limit. Use Value: Delivers 75 Ω low wiper resistance to minimize voltage drop and thermal drift, ensuring stable current regulation under varying ambient conditions. | Use Scenario: Configuring 4–20 mA transmitter output range in process automation field devices. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Four independent rheostats calibrate span/zero points for multiple analog outputs or sensor channels simultaneously. Use Value: Supports full-system calibration with single I²C transaction; EEPROM retention maintains accuracy across maintenance cycles and firmware updates. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar digital rheostat applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MCP4461T-103E/ST | Potentiometer configuration (A–W–B three-terminal); no terminal disconnect via TCON register. | Suitable for voltage-divider applications requiring dual-ended output; not usable as pure series rheostat without external wiring. | Select only if potentiometer topology is required; MCP4462T-103E/ST provides superior rheostat-specific features including TCON and optimized INL/DNL for 2-terminal use. |
| AD5242BRUZ10 | 2-channel, 10 kΩ, I²C, volatile-only wiper; no EEPROM, no WiperLock, no terminal disconnect. | Limited to applications where power-cycle wiper reset is acceptable; lacks nonvolatile safety-critical settings. | Choose for cost-sensitive, single-supply, lower-channel-count designs where EEPROM persistence and robustness are secondary. |
Compared with MCP4461T-103E/ST and AD5242BRUZ10, the MCP4462T-103E/ST uniquely combines quad rheostat topology, EEPROM persistence, WiperLock™ security, and per-channel terminal disconnect-making it optimal for industrial calibration, laser biasing, and safety-critical analog trimming where configuration integrity and flexibility are mandatory.
Availability
MCP4462T-103E/ST is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for programmable gain amplifiers, sensor calibration systems, laser diode bias control, and industrial 4–20 mA transmitters requiring stable component supply, long-term traceability, and automotive-grade temperature resilience.
Supply support for MCP4462T-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 microcontroller, mixed-signal, analog, and Flash-IP solutions, serving automotive, industrial, consumer, and communications markets with high-reliability silicon and development tools.
The MCP44xx/446x family was designed specifically for precision analog trimming and calibration in harsh environments, emphasizing nonvolatile configuration retention, wide temperature operation (–40°C to +125°C), and robust digital interface security.
FAQ
What is the exact RAB resistance tolerance and temperature coefficient for MCP4462T-103E/ST?
The MCP4462T-103E/ST has a nominal RAB resistance of 10 kΩ with a tolerance of ±20% across the full temperature range. Its ratiometric temperature coefficient is 15 ppm/°C (typical) when used in rheostat mode, measured at mid-scale code (080h) from –20°C to +70°C. Absolute tempco is 50 ppm/°C typical over the same range.
Does MCP4462T-103E/ST support potentiometer mode, or is it strictly a rheostat?
The MCP4462T-103E/ST is configured exclusively as a quad rheostat-each channel uses only two terminals (A–W or W–B) with the third terminal disconnected via internal switches. Unlike the MCP4461, it does not support true three-terminal potentiometer operation; floating either A or B terminal is required to implement rheostat functionality, and this is hardwired in the MCP4462 design.
How does WiperLock™ work on MCP4462T-103E/ST, and what voltage triggers it?
WiperLock™ on the MCP4462T-103E/ST is activated by applying ≥9.0 V to the HVC/A0 pin, which places the device in a protected state preventing any wiper or EEPROM changes until the voltage drops below the exit threshold (VDD + 0.8 V). This high-voltage command is independent of I²C activity and provides hardware-level immunity against spurious writes in electrically noisy industrial environments.
Can MCP4462T-103E/ST operate with a 1.8 V I²C bus while maintaining full analog functionality?
Yes-the MCP4462T-103E/ST supports I²C communication at 1.8 V logic levels (with VIH = 0.5×VDD and VIL = 0.3×VDD), but analog performance specifications-including RAB accuracy, tempco, and bandwidth-are only guaranteed when VDD is 2.7 V to 5.5 V. At 1.8 V, the device remains functional for configuration, but analog characteristics are not characterized.
What is the maximum recommended current through a single rheostat channel of MCP4462T-103E/ST?
The absolute maximum current through any single terminal (A, W, or B) of MCP4462T-103E/ST is ±2.5 mA. For a 10 kΩ device at full scale (RAB = 10 kΩ), the maximum safe continuous current is 0.55 mA (VDD = 5.5 V, RAB min ≈ 8 kΩ), based on IAB limits specified in the datasheet. Exceeding this risks thermal drift and long-term resistance shift.
MCP4462T-103E/ST Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- WiperLock™
- Package/Case:
- 14-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Taper:
- Linear
- Configuration:
- Rheostat
- 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:
- 14-TSSOP
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C
- Resistance - Wiper (Ohms) (Typ):
- 75
MCP4462T-103E/ST FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MCP4462T-103E/ST through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MCP4462T-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 MCP4462T-103E/ST reliable?
The price and inventory of MCP4462T-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 MCP4462T-103E/ST is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MCP4462T-103E/ST?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MCP4462T-103E/ST transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MCP4462T-103E/ST?
MCP4462T-103E/ST orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MCP4462T-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 MCP4462T-103E/ST?
For technical support, including MCP4462T-103E/ST datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MCP4462T-103E/ST requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MCP4462T-103E/ST is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MCP4462T-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 MCP4462T-103E/ST meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MCP4462T-103E/ST?
All MCP4462T-103E/ST units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MCP4462T-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 MCP4462T-103E/ST part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MCP4462T-103E/ST:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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