Texas Instruments TPL0401B-10DCKR

Overview

TPL0401B-10DCKR from Texas Instruments is a single-channel, 128-tap digital potentiometer with 10-kΩ end-to-end resistance, I²C interface (7-bit address 0x3E), 2.7–5.5-V supply operation, and –40°C to +125°C temperature range. It functions as a precision voltage divider in low-power DDR3 memory reference circuits, replacing mechanical potentiometers for stable, programmable resistance control.

For engineers reviewing the TPL0401B-10DCKR datasheet, TPL0401B-10DCKR pinout, TPL0401B-10DCKR application, or TPL0401B-10DCKR equivalent, key selection criteria include its fixed GND-connected L terminal, wiper settling time of 0.152 µs, ±20% resistance tolerance, 22 ppm/°C temperature coefficient, and SC70-6 package compatibility with space-constrained embedded systems.

Technical Context

The TPL0401B-10DCKR implements a linear-taper digital potentiometer architecture with an internal L terminal tied to GND-eliminating external grounding and simplifying rheostat or voltage-divider configurations. Its I²C interface supports Standard Mode (100 kHz) and Fast Mode (400 kHz) timing, with dedicated SCL/SDA pins and open-drain SDA output requiring external pull-up.

Wiper position is controlled via an 8-bit WR register (default power-up code 0x40), where decimal value D determines V_W = V_H × D/128 in voltage-divider mode. Resistance linearity is characterized by ±0.5 LSB INL and ±0.25 LSB DNL, with ratiometric temperature coefficient of 4 ppm/°C at mid-scale.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: SC70-6 (2.00 mm × 1.25 mm body), moisture sensitivity level 1, rated for surface-mount reflow assembly.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar digital potentiometer applications.

Compared with MCP4017T-103I/OT and AD5170BRJZ-10-R7, the TPL0401B-10DCKR uniquely combines internal GND-L connection, +125°C rating, and industry-standard SC70-6 footprint - reducing BOM count and enabling robust operation in thermally demanding applications where external L routing or temperature derating would otherwise compromise reliability.

Availability

TPL0401B-10DCKR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for adjustable power supplies, precision amplifier offset trimming, sensor calibration, and LPDDR3 memory reference circuits requiring stable component supply and long-term manufacturability.

Supply support for TPL0401B-10DCKR 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

Texas Instruments is a global semiconductor leader specializing in analog, embedded processing, and connectivity technologies, with decades of expertise in precision analog ICs and power management solutions.

The TPL0401B-10DCKR belongs to TI's digital potentiometer product line, engineered for reliable, software-controllable resistance adjustment in space-constrained, high-temperature applications such as memory subsystems and industrial control interfaces.

FAQ

What is the I²C address of the TPL0401B-10DCKR and how does it differ from the TPL0401A-10DCKR?

The TPL0401B-10DCKR has a fixed 7-bit I²C address of 0x3E (binary 0111110), while the TPL0401A-10DCKR uses 0x2E (binary 0101110). This deliberate address separation allows both devices to share the same I²C bus without conflict - a key feature for systems requiring dual independent potentiometer channels. The TPL0401B-10DCKR address is hardwired and not configurable.

Does the TPL0401B-10DCKR require an external connection to the L terminal?

No. The L terminal of the TPL0401B-10DCKR is internally connected to GND and is not brought out to a pin. Pin 2 (GND) serves as both the device ground reference and the L terminal connection point. This eliminates the need for external wiring or PCB traces to L, simplifying layout and reducing parasitic effects in precision voltage-divider configurations.

What is the default wiper position after power-up for the TPL0401B-10DCKR?

The TPL0401B-10DCKR powers up with the wiper register set to code 0x40 (decimal 64), corresponding to the mid-scale position - 50% of full-scale resistance between W and GND. This default ensures predictable startup behavior in voltage-divider applications, such as setting a nominal V_REF before firmware initialization. The value is stored in volatile register memory and must be reloaded after each power cycle unless managed externally.

Can the TPL0401B-10DCKR operate in rheostat mode, and what are the electrical constraints?

Yes, the TPL0401B-10DCKR supports rheostat mode using the H and W terminals (with L internally grounded). In this configuration, resistance varies from ~0 Ω (code 0x00) to 10 kΩ (code 0x7F), with specified RH ≤ 200 Ω and RW ≤ 100 Ω. Maximum wiper current is ±2 mA - exceeding this risks parametric shift or damage. Rheostat-mode linearity is characterized by ±1 LSB INL and ±0.5 LSB DNL per datasheet Section 7.5.

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the TPL0401B-10DCKR?

The TPL0401B-10DCKR supports I²C Fast Mode up to 400 kHz, in addition to Standard Mode (100 kHz). Timing compliance requires t_SCH ≥ 0.6 µs, t_SCL ≥ 1.3 µs, and t_ICR/t_ICF ≤ 300 ns. Bus capacitance must remain ≤400 pF; typical layout with 10-cm traces and 10-pF pin capacitance meets this requirement. The TPL0401B-10DCKR does not support High-Speed Mode (3.4 MHz).