Renesas X9279TV14Z-2.7

Overview

X9279TV14Z-2.7 from Intersil is a single-channel, 256-tap, digitally controlled potentiometer (XDCP™) with 2-wire serial interface, 100 kΩ end-to-end resistance, 2.7V to 5.5V supply operation, and Pb-free 14-lead TSSOP packaging. It functions as a programmable three-terminal potentiometer or two-terminal variable resistor for precision analog trimming in sensor signal conditioning, voltage regulator feedback, and audio gain control circuits.

For engineers reviewing the X9279TV14Z-2.7 datasheet, X9279TV14Z-2.7 pinout, X9279TV14Z-2.7 application, or X9279TV14Z-2.7 equivalent, this device delivers non-volatile wiper position storage, power-on recall from DR0, <5 µA standby current, and hardware write protection via the WP pin - critical for embedded systems requiring repeatable calibration across power cycles.

Technical Context

The X9279TV14Z-2.7 implements a monolithic CMOS resistor ladder of 255 segments with CMOS-switched wiper access, controlled by an 8-bit volatile Wiper Counter Register (WCR). Its 2-wire bus interface supports read/write/transfer operations to four non-volatile Data Registers (DR0–DR3), all accessible via I²C-compatible protocol with slave address A3–A0 configuration.

Power-up behavior loads DR0 into the WCR, enabling deterministic startup wiper position. Hardware write protection on the WP pin disables non-volatile writes to Data Registers, while the 100 kΩ end-to-end resistance and ±3 mA wiper current rating support direct integration into biasing and feedback paths without external buffering.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 14-lead TSSOP (4.4 mm width), Pb-free (RoHS compliant), moisture sensitivity level (MSL) per J-STD-020.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with ISL95810 and MCP45HV51-103E/P, the X9279TV14Z-2.7 uniquely combines hardware write protection, four non-volatile registers with power-on recall, and single-supply 2.7–5.5 V operation - making it optimal for field-deployed systems needing robust, maintenance-free calibration retention.

Availability

X9279TV14Z-2.7 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for sensor calibration, power supply feedback, audio gain control, and industrial instrumentation requiring stable component supply and long-term calibration integrity.

Supply support for X9279TV14Z-2.7 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

Intersil (now part of Renesas Electronics) is a semiconductor company specializing in precision analog, power management, and interface ICs for industrial, communications, and computing markets.

The X9279 product line was designed for digitally programmable analog trimming in space-constrained, low-power systems where mechanical potentiometers fail due to wear, vibration, or environmental exposure.

FAQ

What is the operating voltage range for the X9279TV14Z-2.7?

The X9279TV14Z-2.7 operates from 2.7 V to 5.5 V on its VCC pin. This extended low-voltage capability distinguishes it from standard 5 V-only variants like X9279TV14, enabling direct interfacing with 3.3 V microcontrollers and battery-powered systems without level shifting. The device maintains full functionality-including 256-tap resolution and non-volatile register access-across this entire range.

Does the X9279TV14Z-2.7 support power-on recall, and how does it work?

Yes, the X9279TV14Z-2.7 supports power-on recall: at every power-up, the contents of Data Register 0 (DR0) are automatically loaded into the volatile Wiper Counter Register (WCR), establishing a known wiper position without host intervention. This behavior is hardwired and requires no configuration - DR0 must be pre-programmed with the desired startup value during manufacturing or field calibration.

How many non-volatile registers does the X9279TV14Z-2.7 have, and what is their endurance?

The X9279TV14Z-2.7 includes four 8-bit non-volatile Data Registers (DR0–DR3), each rated for 100,000 data changes per bit and guaranteed 100-year data retention at +25°C. These registers store wiper positions or system parameters independently of power state, enabling persistent calibration in medical devices, test equipment, and industrial controllers where firmware updates or battery backup are impractical.

What is the function of the WP pin on the X9279TV14Z-2.7?

The WP (Write Protect) pin on the X9279TV14Z-2.7 is a hardware enable for non-volatile writes: when pulled LOW, it blocks all writes to the four Data Registers, preventing accidental overwriting of calibrated values during normal operation or firmware updates. This pin operates independently of the 2-wire interface and remains effective even if the host misconfigures the bus - a critical safeguard for field-deployed systems.

Can the X9279TV14Z-2.7 be used as a two-terminal variable resistor, and what are the current limits?

Yes, the X9279TV14Z-2.7 can operate as a two-terminal variable resistor by connecting RH and RW (or RL and RW) externally, with the third terminal left unconnected. Its wiper current rating is ±3 mA maximum - sufficient for biasing transistors, setting LED currents, or adjusting op-amp feedback without external buffering. Exceeding this limit risks resistor array degradation or measurement inaccuracy.