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Microchip Technology MCP4551T-503E/MS
- Part No.:
- MCP4551T-503E/MS
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Digital Potentiometers
- Package:
- 8-TSSOP, 8-MSOP (0.118", 3.00mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
MCP4551T-503E/MS.pdf
- Description:
- IC DGTL POT 50KOHM 257TAP 8MSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:12,408
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Product details
Overview
MCP4551T-503E/MS from Microchip Technology is a single-channel, 8-bit volatile digital potentiometer in MSOP-8 package with 50 kΩ end-to-end resistance, I²C interface supporting up to 3.4 MHz, and wiper operation from zero- to full-scale. It delivers 257-step resolution, 75 Ω typical wiper resistance, and ±0.5 LSB integral non-linearity for precision analog control in voltage divider or gain-setting circuits.
For engineers reviewing the MCP4551T-503E/MS datasheet, MCP4551T-503E/MS pinout, MCP4551T-503E/MS application, or MCP4551T-503E/MS equivalent, key selection criteria include its 50 kΩ RAB value, 8-bit resolution, MSOP-8 footprint, extended temperature range (–40°C to +125°C), and support for high-voltage tolerant digital inputs up to 12.5 V.
Technical Context
The MCP4551T-503E/MS implements a resistor ladder network with digitally controlled wiper position via I²C commands, enabling real-time adjustment of analog signal paths without mechanical wear. Its volatile memory architecture resets wiper to mid-scale on power-up, and Terminal Control (TCON) register allows dynamic disconnection of resistor terminals A/B/W.
It operates across 1.8V–5.5V supply range with brown-out reset at ~1.5 V, supports standard/fast/high-speed I²C modes (100 kHz/400 kHz/3.4 MHz), and features low 2.5 µA serial-inactive current. Absolute tempco is 50 ppm/°C (0°C to 70°C) in rheostat mode; ratiometric tempco is 15 ppm/°C in potentiometer mode.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Resolution | 8-bit (257 steps): enables fine-grained analog tuning with 0.39% step size for 50 kΩ device. |
| RAB Resistance | 50 kΩ ±20%: defines maximum end-to-end resistance; used directly in gain/voltage-divider calculations. |
| Wiper Resistance | 75 Ω typical: contributes minimal series error in low-impedance signal paths; critical for accuracy below 1 kΩ loads. |
| I²C Speed Support | Up to 3.4 MHz: allows rapid wiper updates in closed-loop systems; requires ≤100 pF bus capacitance. |
| Operating Temp Range | –40°C to +125°C: validated for automotive under-hood and industrial motor-control environments. |
| Supply Voltage Range | 1.8V to 5.5V: supports mixed-voltage systems; analog characteristics specified from 2.7V. |
| Tempco (Ratiometric) | 15 ppm/°C typical: ensures stable voltage division ratio over temperature in potentiometer configuration. |
Pinout & Package
Package: MSOP-8 (3.0 mm × 4.9 mm, 0.65 mm pitch), thermally enhanced with exposed pad (EP) per DFN-8 reference in datasheet Figure 2-1.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| P0A | Resistor terminal A (high-side) | Connects to VDD or signal source; forms one end of 50 kΩ resistive element. |
| P0W | Wiper output | Provides variable voltage/current node; low 75 Ω resistance minimizes loading effects. |
| P0B | Resistor terminal B (low-side) | Connects to VSS or return path; completes potentiometer/rheostat configuration. |
| VSS | Ground reference | System ground for analog and digital sections; must be low-impedance for noise immunity. |
| VDD | Power supply | 1.8V–5.5V analog/digital supply; powers internal logic and resistor network. |
| HVC/A0 | I²C address bit 0 / high-voltage control | Configures LSB of 7-bit I²C address (0x2C or 0x2D); tolerates up to 12.5 V. |
| SDA | I²C data line | Open-drain bidirectional interface; requires external pull-up; supports 3.4 MHz timing. |
| SCL | I²C clock line | Open-drain input; synchronizes all I²C transactions; rise/fall time constrained by bus capacitance. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Zero- to full-scale wiper operation | Enables complete voltage range utilization (0–VDD) without dead zones in feedback or bias networks. |
| Terminal disconnect via TCON register | Allows software-controlled isolation of P0A/P0B/P0W to eliminate leakage or floating nodes during sleep. |
| High-voltage tolerant digital inputs | SDA/SCL/HVC/A0 accept up to 12.5 V, enabling direct interfacing with 5 V or 12 V logic without level shifters. |
| Brown-out reset protection | Resets wiper on VDD drop below ~1.5 V, preventing undefined analog output during power transients. |
| Low serial-inactive current | 2.5 µA typical quiescent draw when I²C idle, critical for battery-powered sensor calibration modules. |
Applications
| LED Brightness Control | DC-DC Converter Feedback |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Adjusting LED current in automotive interior lighting using PWM dimming with analog offset trimming. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MCP4551T-503E/MS acts as programmable current-set resistor in constant-current sink topology. Use Value: 50 kΩ RAB and 8-bit resolution enable precise 0.39% current step control; 125°C rating supports under-dash mounting. |
Use Scenario: Dynamically tuning output voltage of isolated flyback converter via optocoupler feedback loop. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MCP4551T-503E/MS replaces fixed resistor in TL431 reference divider to enable remote voltage programming. Use Value: I²C interface allows firmware-based voltage scaling; 15 ppm/°C ratiometric tempco maintains regulation accuracy across temperature. |
| Industrial Sensor Calibration | Audio Volume Control |
|
Use Scenario: Compensating offset/gain drift in 4–20 mA transmitter analog front-end during factory calibration. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MCP4551T-503E/MS serves as trimmer in instrumentation amplifier gain stage and reference buffer. Use Value: 257-step resolution and ±0.5 LSB INL ensure <0.2% calibration accuracy; volatile memory prevents unintended post-calibration drift. |
Use Scenario: Implementing digital volume control in portable audio DAC output stage with headphone driver. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MCP4551T-503E/MS configures as potentiometer between DAC output and amplifier input. Use Value: 75 Ω wiper resistance minimizes THD at low volumes; 2 MHz bandwidth (5 kΩ equiv.) preserves audio fidelity up to 20 kHz. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar digital potentiometer applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| AD5175BRMZ-50 | Non-volatile EEPROM memory; 50 kΩ; SPI interface; 105 ppm/°C absolute tempco. | Retains wiper setting after power cycle; unsuitable where volatile reset-on-power-up is required. | Select AD5175BRMZ-50 when persistent settings are mandatory; avoid if mid-scale POR behavior is needed. |
| MCP4651T-503E/MS | Dual-channel version; identical 50 kΩ, 8-bit, MSOP-10 package; shares same I²C protocol and tempco. | Enables dual independent adjustments (e.g., gain + offset) in same footprint; requires extra PCB area. | Choose MCP4651T-503E/MS when two coordinated potentiometers are needed; otherwise MCP4551T-503E/MS saves space and cost. |
Compared with AD5175BRMZ-50 and MCP4651T-503E/MS, the MCP4551T-503E/MS offers optimal balance of volatile reset safety, compact MSOP-8 layout, and industry-leading 15 ppm/°C ratiometric stability-making it ideal for recalibratable industrial and automotive analog interfaces.
Availability
MCP4551T-503E/MS is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for LED driver design, DC-DC converter feedback tuning, industrial sensor calibration, and audio volume control requiring stable component supply across automotive, industrial, and medical electronics programs.
Supply support for MCP4551T-503E/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 is a leading provider of microcontrollers, analog components, and connectivity solutions, serving automotive, industrial, consumer, and communications markets since 1989.
The MCP45XX family was designed specifically for precision analog trimming and programmable gain control in space-constrained, thermally demanding applications-emphasizing low tempco, high-voltage tolerance, and robust I²C interoperability.
FAQ
What is the wiper resistance specification for MCP4551T-503E/MS?
The MCP4551T-503E/MS has a typical wiper resistance of 75 Ω at VDD = 5.5 V and IW = 2.0 mA (code = 00h), with a maximum of 300 Ω at VDD = 2.7 V. This low value minimizes insertion error in precision voltage divider or gain-setting configurations, especially critical when driving loads below 1 kΩ. The MCP4551T-503E/MS datasheet specifies this parameter in Table 1-1 under "Wiper Resistance".
Does MCP4551T-503E/MS retain its wiper setting after power cycling?
No, the MCP4551T-503E/MS uses volatile RAM for wiper storage and resets to mid-scale (code 0x80 for 8-bit) on power-up or brown-out event. This behavior is intentional for safety-critical applications like power supply feedback loops where predictable startup state is required. The MCP4551T-503E/MS does not include EEPROM or non-volatile memory.
What I²C address does MCP4551T-503E/MS use by default?
The MCP4551T-503E/MS defaults to I²C address 0x2C when HVC/A0 is pulled low, and 0x2D when HVC/A0 is pulled high. This 7-bit address supports standard (100 kHz), fast (400 kHz), and high-speed (3.4 MHz) modes. The MCP4551T-503E/MS address is fixed per hardware pin state-no software-configurable addressing is supported.
Can MCP4551T-503E/MS operate with a 1.8 V supply?
Yes, the MCP4551T-503E/MS functions across 1.8V–5.5V, but analog performance specifications (e.g., RAB tolerance, INL, bandwidth) are guaranteed only from 2.7 V. At 1.8 V, only serial interface operation is assured; users must validate resistor network behavior in their specific circuit. The MCP4551T-503E/MS datasheet explicitly states "Analog characteristics only tested from 2.7V to 5.5V".
How does the Terminal Control (TCON) register function in MCP4551T-503E/MS?
The TCON register in MCP4551T-503E/MS enables software-controlled disconnection of P0A, P0W, or P0B terminals from the internal resistor network-preventing leakage, reducing power in standby, or isolating fault conditions. Writing 0 to corresponding bits disconnects that terminal; default POR value (0xFF) connects all three. This feature is unique to the MCP4551T-503E/MS among 8-bit volatile pots in its class.
MCP4551T-503E/MS Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-TSSOP, 8-MSOP (0.118", 3.00mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Taper:
- Linear
- Configuration:
- Potentiometer
- Number of Circuits:
- 1
- 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:
- 8-MSOP
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C
- Resistance - Wiper (Ohms) (Typ):
- 75
MCP4551T-503E/MS FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MCP4551T-503E/MS through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MCP4551T-503E/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 MCP4551T-503E/MS reliable?
The price and inventory of MCP4551T-503E/MS are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MCP4551T-503E/MS is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MCP4551T-503E/MS?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MCP4551T-503E/MS transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MCP4551T-503E/MS?
MCP4551T-503E/MS orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MCP4551T-503E/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 MCP4551T-503E/MS?
For technical support, including MCP4551T-503E/MS datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MCP4551T-503E/MS requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MCP4551T-503E/MS is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MCP4551T-503E/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 MCP4551T-503E/MS meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MCP4551T-503E/MS?
All MCP4551T-503E/MS units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MCP4551T-503E/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 MCP4551T-503E/MS part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MCP4551T-503E/MS:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MCP4551T-503E/MS Tags
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