MCP4241-104E/ST

Product Overview

Category

The MCP4241-104E/ST belongs to the category of digital potentiometers.

Use

It is primarily used for electronic circuitry and system control applications.

Characteristics

• Digital control interface
• Non-volatile memory storage
• Low power consumption
• Wide operating voltage range
• High resolution

Package

The MCP4241-104E/ST comes in a small outline transistor (SOT) package.

Essence

This digital potentiometer provides a compact and efficient solution for controlling electronic circuits and systems.

Packaging/Quantity

The MCP4241-104E/ST is typically packaged in reels, with a quantity of 2500 units per reel.

Specifications

• Resolution: 10-bit
• Number of Channels: 2
• Operating Voltage Range: 2.7V to 5.5V
• Interface: SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface)
• Temperature Range: -40°C to +125°C
• End-to-End Resistance: 100 kΩ

Detailed Pin Configuration

The MCP4241-104E/ST has a total of 14 pins, which are configured as follows:

1. VDD - Power supply voltage
2. CS - Chip select input
3. SCK - Serial clock input
4. SDI - Serial data input
5. SDO - Serial data output
6. GND - Ground
7. A - Terminal A of channel 1
8. W - Wiper terminal of channel 1
9. B - Terminal B of channel 1
10. H - Terminal H of channel 1
11. A - Terminal A of channel 2
12. W - Wiper terminal of channel 2
13. B - Terminal B of channel 2
14. H - Terminal H of channel 2

Functional Features

• Non-volatile memory allows for retaining settings even when power is disconnected.
• SPI interface enables easy integration with microcontrollers and other digital systems.
• High resolution provides precise control over circuit parameters.
• Wide operating voltage range allows for compatibility with various power supply configurations.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages

• Compact size and low power consumption make it suitable for portable electronic devices.
• Non-volatile memory ensures that settings are not lost during power cycles.
• High resolution allows for fine-grained control over circuit parameters.

Disadvantages

• Limited number of channels may restrict its use in certain applications.
• Requires an external microcontroller or digital system for control.

Working Principles

The MCP4241-104E/ST operates by digitally controlling the resistance between its terminal pins. This is achieved through a combination of electronic switches and non-volatile memory storage. The digital control interface, coupled with the SPI communication protocol, allows for precise adjustment of the potentiometer's wiper position, thereby altering the resistance value.

Detailed Application Field Plans

The MCP4241-104E/ST finds application in various fields, including:

1. Audio Equipment: It can be used to control volume levels and tone adjustments in audio amplifiers and mixers.
2. Industrial Automation: It enables precise calibration and adjustment of industrial control systems.
3. Test and Measurement Instruments: It provides accurate resistance control for testing and measurement equipment.
4. Automotive Electronics: It can be utilized in automotive systems for controlling various parameters, such as lighting intensity and motor speed.

Detailed and Complete Alternative Models

1. MCP4251-104E/ST: Similar to the MCP4241-104E/ST, but with four channels instead of two.
2. MCP4261-104E/ST: Offers the same features as the MCP4241-104E/ST, but with a higher resolution of 12 bits.
3. MCP4131-104E/ST: A lower-cost alternative with a resolution of 8 bits and a single channel.

These alternative models provide options for different requirements and specifications within the digital potentiometer category.

In conclusion, the MCP4241-104E/ST is a versatile digital potentiometer that offers precise control over circuit parameters. Its compact size, low power consumption, and non-volatile memory make it suitable for a wide range of applications in various industries.