Renesas X9271UV14Z-2.7T1

Overview

X9271UV14Z-2.7T1 from Intersil (now Renesas) is a single-supply, low-power, 256-tap digitally controlled potentiometer (XDCP™) with SPI interface, 50kΩ end-to-end resistance, ±300ppm/°C temperature coefficient, and operation from 2.7V to 5.5V. It functions as a three-terminal potentiometer or two-terminal variable resistor for precision trimming in analog signal paths.

For engineers reviewing the X9271UV14Z-2.7T1 datasheet, X9271UV14Z-2.7T1 pinout, X9271UV14Z-2.7T1 application, or X9271UV14Z-2.7T1 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 256-step resolution, nonvolatile data register storage, power-on recall of DR0, 100-year data retention, and 14-lead TSSOP package compatible with industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C).

Technical Context

The X9271UV14Z-2.7T1 implements a monolithic CMOS resistor ladder of 255 segments with CMOS switches selecting one of 256 tap points via an 8-bit volatile Wiper Counter Register (WCR). Its SPI interface supports read/write/transfer operations with device addressing via A0/A1 pins and hardware write protection via WP.

Power-up loads the default data register (DR0) into the WCR, enabling deterministic startup behavior. Nonvolatile writes to its 16-byte register bank require up to 10ms and are monitored via the WIP status bit; standby current remains below 3µA, supporting battery-powered applications.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 14-lead TSSOP (4.4mm body width), RoHS-compliant, Pb-free plus anneal finish (M14.173 drawing).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with AD5241BRMZ50 and MCP41050-I/P, the X9271UV14Z-2.7T1 uniquely combines SPI interface, 256-tap resolution, nonvolatile register storage with power-on recall, and industrial temperature rating in a surface-mount TSSOP package-making it optimal for embedded systems requiring autonomous, field-programmable analog calibration.

Availability

X9271UV14Z-2.7T1 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor conditioning, programmable power supplies, and RF bias control requiring stable component supply and long-term calibration integrity.

Supply support for X9271UV14Z-2.7T1 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

Renesas Electronics (formerly Intersil) is a global semiconductor leader specializing in microcontrollers, analog power, and mixed-signal solutions for industrial, automotive, and communications markets.

The X9271 product line delivers digitally programmable analog front-ends for precision trimming and dynamic gain control in harsh-environment applications where mechanical potentiometers fail.

FAQ

What is the operating voltage range for the X9271UV14Z-2.7T1?

The X9271UV14Z-2.7T1 operates from 2.7V to 5.5V, making it compatible with both 3.3V and 5V logic systems. This wide supply range eliminates need for level shifters in mixed-voltage designs and supports battery-powered applications down to 2.7V. The device maintains full functionality-including SPI communication and wiper positioning-across this entire range. Its internal regulation ensures consistent 50kΩ end-to-end resistance and 256-tap resolution regardless of VCC value within spec.

How does the power-on recall feature work in the X9271UV14Z-2.7T1?

On power-up, the X9271UV14Z-2.7T1 automatically loads the contents of Data Register 0 (DR0) into the volatile Wiper Counter Register (WCR), establishing a known wiper position without host intervention. This behavior is hardwired and occurs after VCC stabilizes, independent of SPI activity. DR0 is nonvolatile and retains its value for 100 years, enabling factory-trimmed startup conditions. The X9271UV14Z-2.7T1 does not rely on external configuration or firmware initialization to achieve repeatable analog behavior at boot.

Can the X9271UV14Z-2.7T1 be used as a two-terminal variable resistor?

Yes, the X9271UV14Z-2.7T1 can be configured as a two-terminal variable resistor by connecting either RH or RL to RW, leaving the unused terminal open. In this mode, resistance varies from near-zero (wiper at connected terminal) to 50kΩ (wiper at opposite terminal). Wiper resistance remains ≤150Ω at 5V, minimizing insertion error. The device retains full SPI controllability and nonvolatile storage capability in rheostat mode, supporting dynamic resistance adjustment in feedback loops or current-limiting paths.

What is the maximum SPI clock frequency supported by the X9271UV14Z-2.7T1?

The X9271UV14Z-2.7T1 supports a maximum SPI clock frequency of 2.5MHz, as specified in its AC timing characteristics. This allows complete 3-byte instructions (e.g., Read WCR or Write DR) to execute in under 1.2µs, enabling rapid reconfiguration in real-time control loops. The interface uses standard SPI mode 0 (CPOL=0, CPHA=0) with data latched on SCK rising edge and output on falling edge. All timing parameters-including tSU, tH, and tV-are guaranteed across the full –40°C to +85°C temperature range.

Does the X9271UV14Z-2.7T1 have hardware write protection?

Yes, the X9271UV14Z-2.7T1 includes a dedicated Hardware Write Protect (WP) pin that, when driven LOW, blocks all nonvolatile writes to its data registers-preventing accidental overwrites of calibration data during normal operation or power transitions. WP is a CMOS-level input requiring no pull-up; it operates independently of SPI commands or software states. This hardware lock complements the device's 100,000-cycle endurance and 100-year data retention, providing a robust safeguard for field-deployed systems where firmware reliability cannot be fully guaranteed.