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Microchip Technology MCP4551-103E/MS
- Part No.:
- MCP4551-103E/MS
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Digital Potentiometers
- Package:
- 8-TSSOP, 8-MSOP (0.118", 3.00mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
MCP4551-103E/MS.pdf
- Description:
- IC DGTL POT 10KOHM 257TAP 8MSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:1,586
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Product details
Overview
MCP4551-103E/MS from Microchip Technology is a single-channel, 8-bit volatile digital potentiometer in MSOP-8 package with 10 kΩ end-to-end resistance (RAB), 257-step resolution, I²C interface supporting up to 3.4 MHz, and wiper operation from zero- to full-scale. It delivers low wiper resistance (75 Ω typ.), 15 ppm/°C ratiometric tempco, and operates across 1.8V–5.5V supply for precision analog trimming in sensor calibration circuits.
For engineers reviewing the MCP4551-103E/MS datasheet, MCP4551-103E/MS pinout, MCP4551-103E/MS application, or MCP4551-103E/MS equivalent, key selection criteria include its 8-bit resolution, 10 kΩ RAB value, MSOP-8 footprint compatibility, I²C timing compliance at 400 kHz/3.4 MHz, and extended temperature range (–40°C to +125°C) for industrial-grade analog control.
Technical Context
The MCP4551-103E/MS implements a single potentiometer network with three terminals (P0A, P0W, P0B) controlled via an I²C serial interface featuring address pins (HVC/A0, A1), SDA/SCL lines, and internal wiper register logic. Its volatile memory architecture requires host initialization on power-up, and wiper position is updated via write commands or increment/decrement instructions.
It integrates terminal disconnect capability through the TCON register, brown-out reset protection (1.5 V typical), and high-voltage tolerant digital inputs (up to 12.5 V). The device supports both potentiometer and rheostat configurations by floating one terminal, with bandwidth reaching 1 MHz (10 kΩ, mid-scale code) and leakage current below 100 nA per terminal.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| RAB Resistance | 10 kΩ ±20% - defines maximum adjustable resistance between P0A and P0B terminals for gain/offset tuning |
| Resolution | 8-bit / 257 steps - enables fine-grained analog adjustment with 39.2 Ω step size (10 kΩ ÷ 256) |
| Wiper Resistance | 75 Ω typical - minimizes insertion loss and signal distortion in voltage-divider configurations |
| Ratiometric Tempco | 15 ppm/°C typical - ensures stable voltage division ratio over temperature (–40°C to +125°C) |
| I²C Speed Support | 100 kHz / 400 kHz / 3.4 MHz - allows flexible integration with legacy and high-speed microcontrollers |
| Supply Voltage Range | 1.8 V to 5.5 V - supports dual-supply systems and low-power battery operation without level-shifting |
| Operating Temperature | –40°C to +125°C - qualified for under-hood automotive, industrial motor control, and harsh-environment sensing |
Pinout & Package
Package: MSOP-8 (3.0 mm × 3.0 mm, 0.65 mm pitch), exposed pad optional per design; RoHS-compliant, moisture sensitivity level 1.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| P0A | Potentiometer Terminal A | Fixed end of resistor network; connects to reference voltage or signal source in divider topology |
| P0W | Wiper Terminal | Adjustable tap point; output node for variable voltage or current-controlled biasing |
| P0B | Potentiometer Terminal B | Fixed end of resistor network; typically tied to ground or return path in single-ended applications |
| VSS | Ground Reference | Primary digital/analog ground connection; must be low-impedance for noise immunity |
| VDD | Power Supply | Single supply for core logic and resistor network; decoupling capacitor required near pin |
| HVC / A0 | I²C Address Input / High-Voltage Control | Configures LSB of I²C slave address (0x2C or 0x2D); accepts up to 12.5 V for HV-level signaling |
| SDA | I²C Data Line | Open-drain bidirectional data line; requires external pull-up to VDD or higher voltage rail |
| SCL | I²C Clock Line | Open-drain clock input; synchronizes all read/write and increment/decrement operations |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Zero- to Full-Scale Wiper Operation | Enables complete voltage sweep from VSS to VDD at P0W, supporting rail-to-rail analog control |
| Terminal Disconnect via TCON Register | Allows software isolation of P0A/P0B/P0W from internal resistor network-critical for power sequencing and fault-safe shutdown |
| Brown-Out Reset Protection | Resets wiper to mid-scale (128) when VDD drops below ~1.5 V, preventing undefined analog states during power transients |
| High-Voltage Tolerant Digital Inputs | HVC/A0, A1, A2, SDA, SCL withstand up to 12.5 V-enables direct interfacing with 5 V or 12 V controllers without level shifters |
| Low Serial Interface Inactive Current | 2.5 µA typical standby current when I²C bus is idle-extends battery life in portable instrumentation and IoT edge nodes |
Applications
| LED Brightness Control | Sensor Signal Conditioning |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Adjustable constant-current driver for RGB LED modules in industrial HMI panels. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Digital potentiometer sets reference voltage for current-sense amplifier feedback loop. Use Value: Enables factory-calibrated brightness levels via I²C without trimming resistors, reducing BOM count and assembly cost. |
Use Scenario: Offset and gain adjustment for bridge-based pressure sensors in HVAC control units. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Configurable voltage divider provides programmable zero-point and span correction before ADC input. Use Value: Compensates for sensor unit-to-unit variation and thermal drift using 15 ppm/°C ratiometric stability. |
| Programmable Power Supply Feedback | Audio Volume Control |
|
Use Scenario: Dynamic output voltage setting in digitally controlled DC-DC converters for FPGA core rails. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Replaces fixed resistor in TL431 shunt regulator feedback network to enable remote voltage programming. Use Value: Supports 8-bit resolution (39.2 Ω step) for precise 0.5% output accuracy across 0.8 V–1.5 V range. |
Use Scenario: Channel-matched volume control in professional audio mixers with microcontroller-based UI. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual-terminal rheostat configuration (P0A–P0W) attenuates line-level analog signals pre-amplification. Use Value: Delivers monotonic 257-step attenuation with <±0.5 LSb DNL, eliminating zipper noise during real-time adjustments. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar digital potentiometer applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| AD5171BRMZ-10 | 64-step (6-bit), nonvolatile EEPROM memory, 10 kΩ RAB, SPI interface only | Lacks I²C support and 8-bit resolution; retains wiper setting after power loss | Select when persistent settings are mandatory and SPI is available; avoid if I²C or finer resolution required |
| MCP41010-I/P | 8-bit, 10 kΩ, SPI interface, PDIP-8 package, no HVC pin or high-voltage tolerance | Requires level-shifting for >5.5 V controller interfaces; larger through-hole footprint | Choose for cost-sensitive prototyping with legacy 5 V microcontrollers; not suitable for space-constrained or HV environments |
Compared with AD5171BRMZ-10 and MCP41010-I/P, the MCP4551-103E/MS uniquely combines I²C compatibility, 8-bit resolution, 12.5 V-tolerant addressing, and MSOP-8 packaging-making it optimal for compact, high-reliability industrial systems requiring field-updatable analog trim without nonvolatile storage overhead.
Availability
MCP4551-103E/MS is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, programmable power supplies, LED driver feedback loops, and audio signal conditioning requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for MCP4551-103E/MS 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, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, serving automotive, industrial, consumer, and communications markets.
The MCP45XX family was designed specifically for precision analog trimming in embedded systems where software-controlled resistor adjustment replaces mechanical potentiometers-emphasizing I²C simplicity, wide voltage operation, and robust thermal performance.
FAQ
What is the nominal end-to-end resistance of the MCP4551-103E/MS?
The MCP4551-103E/MS has a nominal RAB resistance of 10 kΩ, with a tolerance of ±20% across temperature and voltage. This value is confirmed in the Electrical Characteristics table (DS22096B-page 5) for "-103" suffix devices and defines the total resistance between P0A and P0B terminals at zero wiper code.
Does the MCP4551-103E/MS retain its wiper setting after power cycling?
No, the MCP4551-103E/MS uses volatile RAM for wiper storage and resets to mid-scale (code 0x80) on power-up or brown-out. This behavior is documented in the Device Features table (DS22096B-page 2) under "POR Wiper Setting" for MCP4551 as "Mid-Scale", and requires host MCU initialization at startup.
Can the MCP4551-103E/MS operate with a 1.8 V supply?
Yes, the MCP4551-103E/MS supports full functionality-including I²C communication and resistor network operation-at VDD = 1.8 V, as specified in the "VDD Operating Range" column (DS22096B-page 2) and DC Characteristics (DS22096B-page 4). Analog performance remains valid down to 2.7 V, but digital interface works from 1.8 V.
What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the MCP4551-103E/MS?
The MCP4551-103E/MS supports I²C clock frequencies up to 3.4 MHz in High-Speed mode, provided VDD ≥ 4.5 V and bus capacitance ≤ 100 pF. This is explicitly listed in the I²C AC Characteristics table (DS22096B-page 13) under FSCL parameter for "High-Speed 3.4" mode.
Is the MCP4551-103E/MS pin-compatible with other devices in the MCP45XX family?
Yes, the MCP4551-103E/MS shares identical MSOP-8 pinout and terminal assignment (P0A/P0W/P0B/VSS/VDD/HVC-A0/SDA/SCL) with all MCP45X1-series devices including MCP4531, MCP4541, and MCP4561-enabling drop-in replacement within the same RAB and resolution variants, as shown in the Package Types diagram (DS22096B-page 1).
MCP4551-103E/MS Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-TSSOP, 8-MSOP (0.118", 3.00mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Taper:
- Linear
- Configuration:
- Potentiometer
- Number of Circuits:
- 1
- Number of Taps:
- 257
- Resistance (Ohms):
- 10k
- 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:
- 8-MSOP
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C
- Resistance - Wiper (Ohms) (Typ):
- 75
MCP4551-103E/MS FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MCP4551-103E/MS through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MCP4551-103E/MS 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 MCP4551-103E/MS reliable?
The price and inventory of MCP4551-103E/MS are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MCP4551-103E/MS is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MCP4551-103E/MS?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MCP4551-103E/MS transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MCP4551-103E/MS?
MCP4551-103E/MS orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MCP4551-103E/MS 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 MCP4551-103E/MS?
For technical support, including MCP4551-103E/MS datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MCP4551-103E/MS requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MCP4551-103E/MS is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MCP4551-103E/MS 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 MCP4551-103E/MS meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MCP4551-103E/MS?
All MCP4551-103E/MS units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MCP4551-103E/MS, 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 MCP4551-103E/MS part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MCP4551-103E/MS:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MCP4551-103E/MS Tags
-
MCP4018T-103E/LT
Microchip Technology
-
MCP4018T-503E/LT
Microchip Technology
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MCP4011T-103E/SN
Microchip Technology
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MCP4018T-104E/LT
Microchip Technology
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MCP4017T-503E/LT
Microchip Technology
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MCP4018T-502E/LT
Microchip Technology
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MCP4017T-103E/LT
Microchip Technology
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MCP4531T-103E/MF
Microchip Technology
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MCP4021T-202E/SN
Microchip Technology
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MCP4023T-103E/CH
Microchip Technology
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MCP4022T-503E/CH
Microchip Technology
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MCP4551T-502E/MS
Microchip Technology
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