Microchip Technology MCP4901T-E/SN
- Part No.:
- MCP4901T-E/SN
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Digital to Analog Converters (DAC)
- Package:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
MCP4901T-E/SN.pdf
- Description:
- IC DAC 8BIT V-OUT 8SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
MCP4901T-E/SN from Microchip Technology is an 8-bit single-channel buffered voltage-output Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) with rail-to-rail output, SPI interface (up to 20 MHz), and selectable 1x/2x gain. It operates from 2.7V to 5.5V, delivers 4.5 µs settling time, and supports external voltage reference input for precision analog control in motor feedback loops and calibration systems.
For engineers reviewing the MCP4901T-E/SN datasheet, MCP4901T-E/SN pinout, MCP4901T-E/SN application, or MCP4901T-E/SN equivalent, key selection criteria include its 8-bit resolution, extended temperature range (–40°C to +125°C), simultaneous latching via LDAC, unbuffered VREF input impedance (165 kΩ), and guaranteed monotonicity across all codes.
Technical Context
The MCP4901T-E/SN uses a resistive string DAC architecture with double-buffered registers, enabling synchronous output updates via the LDAC pin. Its output amplifier supports rail-to-rail swing (0.01 V to VDD – 0.04 V) and programmable gain (1x or 2x), with offset error ±0.02% of FSR and INL ±0.25 LSB over the extended temperature range.
SPI communication follows Mode 0,0 and Mode 1,1 protocols with Schmitt-trigger inputs (VIH = 0.7×VDD, VIL = 0.2×VDD), 15 ns minimum clock high/low times, and 100 ns minimum LDAC pulse width. The device integrates Power-on Reset (VPOR = 1.85 V min) and software shutdown mode (ISHDN_SW = 5 µA typical at +125°C).
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Resolution | 8-bit - defines 256 discrete output levels; LSb = VREF/256 (gain=1x) or (2×VREF)/256 (gain=2x) |
| Settling Time | 4.5 µs - time to settle within ½ LSB after major code transition; enables fast closed-loop response |
| Output Swing | 0.01 V to VDD – 0.04 V - rail-to-rail capability ensures full utilization of supply voltage range |
| SPI Clock Frequency | 20 MHz - supports high-throughput digital control without bottlenecking MCU data rate |
| INL Error | ±0.25 LSB (–40°C to +125°C) - limits end-point nonlinearity in precision trimming applications |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.7 V to 5.5 V - compatible with both 3.3 V and 5 V system rails without level-shifting |
| Operating Temperature | –40°C to +125°C - qualified for under-hood automotive, industrial motor drives, and harsh-environment sensing |
Pinout & Package
Package: 8-lead SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit), surface-mount, RoHS-compliant, with exposed thermal pad internally connected to VSS.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VDD | Positive supply input | 2.7–5.5 V power rail; requires 0.1 µF ceramic + 10 µF tantalum bypassing for low-noise DAC performance |
| CS | Chip select input | Active-low SPI enable; falling edge initiates serial frame; must meet tCSSR ≥ 40 ns setup to first SCK rising edge |
| SCK | SPI clock input | Supports up to 20 MHz; timing-critical for reliable data capture; Schmitt-triggered for noise immunity |
| SDI | SPI data input | Serial command/data stream (16-bit frame); tSU = 15 ns, tHD = 10 ns relative to SCK edges |
| LDAC | Latch DAC synchronization | Low-active signal transfers input register to DAC register; enables synchronized multi-DAC updates |
| VREF | External voltage reference input | Unbuffered mode default; 0–VDD range, 165 kΩ input impedance, 7 pF capacitance |
| VSS | Analog ground reference | Low-impedance connection required; shared with exposed thermal pad (EP) for thermal and noise control |
| VOUT | Analog voltage output | Rail-to-rail buffered output; full-scale = G × VREF × (D/256); short-circuit current = 17 mA max |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Double-buffered registers | Enables glitch-free, synchronized DAC updates across multiple devices using shared LDAC signal |
| Selectable 1x/2x output gain | Configurable via GA bit; 2x gain doubles full-scale range but reduces multiplier-mode bandwidth to 400 kHz |
| Software shutdown mode | Reduces current to 5 µA (typ) at +125°C; preserves SPI interface for wake-up without reset sequence |
| Power-on Reset (POR) | Ensures high-impedance output until valid write and LDAC low threshold met; VPOR = 1.85 V min |
| Guaranteed monotonicity | Valid across all codes and temperatures; eliminates missed or repeated steps in control loop applications |
Applications
| Motor Control Feedback Loop | Precision Selectable Voltage Reference |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Closed-loop speed/torque regulation in BLDC or stepper motor drivers requiring real-time analog setpoint adjustment. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: DAC generates precise analog reference voltage for current-sense amplifier offset compensation or PWM comparator thresholds. Use Value: 4.5 µs settling time and ±0.25 LSB INL ensure stable, jitter-free motor commutation at high update rates. |
Use Scenario: Programmable bias voltage generation for sensor front-ends or ADC reference scaling in portable instrumentation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Provides stable, digitally adjustable VREF for downstream analog circuitry with minimal drift over temperature. Use Value: Rail-to-rail output and 2.7–5.5 V operation allow direct interfacing with 3.3 V or 5 V systems without external op-amps. |
| Set Point or Offset Trimming | Calibration of Optical Communication Devices |
Use Scenario: Factory or field calibration of analog sensor outputs (e.g., pressure, temperature transducers) via microcontroller-controlled trim. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Delivers fine-grained DC offset correction voltage to op-amp summing junctions or DAC-based trim networks. Use Value: 8-bit resolution (256 steps) and ±0.02% FSR offset error enable sub-mV accuracy in production test environments. |
Use Scenario: Bias voltage tuning for laser diode drivers or photodiode transimpedance amplifiers in fiber-optic transceivers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Generates stable, temperature-compensated bias points for optical component linearization and aging compensation. Use Value: Extended –40°C to +125°C operation and <5 ppm/°C gain drift support long-term reliability in telecom chassis. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 8-bit voltage-output DAC applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MCP4801T-E/SN | Internal 2.048 V reference; no external VREF pin; fixed 1x gain only; same SOIC-8 package and SPI interface | Best for space-constrained designs where external reference sourcing is impractical; lacks gain flexibility and VREF scaling | Choose when reference stability and board area outweigh need for external VREF control or gain selection |
| AD5300BRMZ-REEL7 | 8-bit, rail-to-rail, SPI interface; internal reference (2.5 V); 10 µs settling time; higher DNL (±0.5 LSB) and wider temp range (–40°C to +105°C) | Preferred in medical instrumentation where internal reference simplifies BOM; slower settling limits high-speed control loops | Choose when integrated reference and ADI's qualification pedigree are prioritized over speed and extended temperature compliance |
Compared with MCP4901T-E/SN, MCP4801T-E/SN trades external reference flexibility for reduced component count, while AD5300BRMZ-REEL7 offers alternate qualification and internal reference but sacrifices 5.5 µs in settling time and 20°C in max operating temperature.
Availability
MCP4901T-E/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for motor control feedback loops, precision voltage reference generation, and sensor calibration applications requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and extended temperature compliance.
Supply support for MCP4901T-E/SN 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, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.
The MCP49xx family was designed specifically for cost-sensitive, high-reliability industrial and automotive applications requiring precision analog output control with minimal external components and robust SPI interoperability.
FAQ
What is the maximum SPI clock frequency supported by the MCP4901T-E/SN?
The MCP4901T-E/SN supports SPI clock frequencies up to 20 MHz at +25°C, with timing parameters validated across the full operating temperature range (–40°C to +125°C). This allows high-speed configuration and update rates in real-time control systems without compromising data integrity.
Does the MCP4901T-E/SN include an internal voltage reference?
No, the MCP4901T-E/SN does not include an internal voltage reference. It requires an external VREF source connected to the VREF pin, supporting unbuffered operation from 0 V to VDD. This enables flexible full-scale range selection and compatibility with precision external references like the MCP1541.
How does the LDAC pin function in the MCP4901T-E/SN?
The LDAC pin on the MCP4901T-E/SN is an active-low synchronization input that transfers data from the input latch register to the DAC register, updating VOUT. When held low, VOUT updates immediately upon CS deassertion; when controlled externally, it enables coordinated updates across multiple DACs in a system.
What is the output impedance of the MCP4901T-E/SN in shutdown mode?
In software shutdown mode, the MCP4901T-E/SN configures its output stage to present a known high-resistance load of 500 kΩ (typical) at the VOUT pin. This prevents loading of downstream circuitry while maintaining safe, predictable behavior during power-saving states.
Can the MCP4901T-E/SN operate from a 3.3 V supply?
Yes, the MCP4901T-E/SN is fully specified for operation from 2.7 V to 5.5 V, including standard 3.3 V logic and supply rails. At VDD = 3.3 V, typical supply current is 125 µA (code = 0x000), and output swing remains rail-to-rail (0.01 V to 3.26 V), ensuring compatibility with modern low-voltage embedded systems.
MCP4901T-E/SN Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Number of Bits:
- 8
- Number of D/A Converters:
- 1
- Settling Time:
- 4.5µs (Typ)
- Output Type:
- Voltage - Buffered
- Differential Output:
- No
- Data Interface:
- SPI
- Reference Type:
- External
- Voltage - Supply, Analog:
- 2.7V ~ 5.5V
- Voltage - Supply, Digital:
- 2.7V ~ 5.5V
- INL/DNL (LSB):
- ±0.25, ±0.2
- Architecture:
- String DAC
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-SOIC
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
MCP4901T-E/SN FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MCP4901T-E/SN through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MCP4901T-E/SN 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 MCP4901T-E/SN reliable?
The price and inventory of MCP4901T-E/SN are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MCP4901T-E/SN is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MCP4901T-E/SN?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MCP4901T-E/SN transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MCP4901T-E/SN?
MCP4901T-E/SN orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MCP4901T-E/SN 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 MCP4901T-E/SN?
For technical support, including MCP4901T-E/SN datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MCP4901T-E/SN requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MCP4901T-E/SN is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MCP4901T-E/SN 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 MCP4901T-E/SN meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MCP4901T-E/SN?
All MCP4901T-E/SN units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MCP4901T-E/SN, 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 MCP4901T-E/SN part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MCP4901T-E/SN:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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