MCP4251 (2)
The MCP4251 is available from Microchip at Xecor. Designed for digital potentiometer applications, the MCP4251 offers high precision, low power consumption, and SPI interface compatibility. Available in a 14-PDIP package, it is ideal for industrial control systems, audio equipment, and instrumentation. Whether used in automotive electronics, telecommunications, or consumer electronics, this series ensures reliable performance, scalability, and efficiency for demanding applications. Xecor is an authorized distributor for Microchip. Please view our extensive selection of the MCP4251 series below.
| Part Number | Description | Package | Inventory | Add To Bom |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MCP4251-502E/P | MCP4251-502E/P, Digital Potentiometer 5kΩ 257-Position Linear 2-channel Serial-SPI 8-Pin PDIP | 14-PDIP | 9,283 | |
| MCP4251-104E/P | Digital Potentiometer with 256 Positions and 100k Ohm Resistance in a Dual 14-Pin PDIP Tube | 14-DIP | 8,614 |
Key Featrues
SPI Interface: The digital potentiometer utilizes an SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface) for communication, enabling precise and fast control of the potentiometer settings. This feature enhances performance in applications requiring real-time adjustments and integration with microcontrollers or digital systems.
10k Ohm Resistance with 257 Taps: With a 10k Ohm resistance and 257 taps, this potentiometer offers fine-grained resolution for adjusting voltage or current. This precision is ideal for applications like audio volume control, sensor calibration, and signal conditioning.
Dual Circuit Configuration: The device features two independent potentiometer circuits in a single package, allowing for simultaneous control of two channels. This dual configuration reduces component count and simplifies circuit design in multi-channel systems.
Wide Operating Voltage Range (1.8V to 5.5V): The potentiometer operates across a broad voltage range, making it versatile for use in both low-power and standard-voltage applications. This flexibility ensures compatibility with a wide range of electronic systems and power supplies.
Through-Hole Mounting (14-PDIP): The 14-pin PDIP package with through-hole mounting provides robust mechanical stability and ease of assembly in prototyping or industrial applications. This feature is particularly beneficial for environments requiring durable and reliable connections.
10k Ohm Resistance with 257 Taps: With a 10k Ohm resistance and 257 taps, this potentiometer offers fine-grained resolution for adjusting voltage or current. This precision is ideal for applications like audio volume control, sensor calibration, and signal conditioning.
Dual Circuit Configuration: The device features two independent potentiometer circuits in a single package, allowing for simultaneous control of two channels. This dual configuration reduces component count and simplifies circuit design in multi-channel systems.
Wide Operating Voltage Range (1.8V to 5.5V): The potentiometer operates across a broad voltage range, making it versatile for use in both low-power and standard-voltage applications. This flexibility ensures compatibility with a wide range of electronic systems and power supplies.
Through-Hole Mounting (14-PDIP): The 14-pin PDIP package with through-hole mounting provides robust mechanical stability and ease of assembly in prototyping or industrial applications. This feature is particularly beneficial for environments requiring durable and reliable connections.
Applications
Precision Audio Volume Control: The MCP4251 digital potentiometer is perfect for fine-tuning audio volume levels in high-fidelity audio systems. Its 257-tap resolution allows for smooth and precise adjustments, while the SPI interface enables seamless integration with microcontrollers for automated control. This makes it ideal for use in professional audio equipment, home theater systems, and portable audio devices.
Programmable Gain Amplifier (PGA): The MCP4251 can be used to adjust the gain of operational amplifiers in signal conditioning circuits. By varying the resistance in the feedback loop, the gain of the amplifier can be precisely controlled via the SPI interface. This application is particularly useful in instrumentation, medical devices, and communication systems where adjustable gain is required for optimal signal processing.
Industrial Process Control: In industrial automation, the MCP4251 can be employed to control the setpoints of various process parameters, such as temperature, pressure, or flow rate. Its linear taper and volatile memory allow for real-time adjustments, while the SPI interface facilitates communication with central control systems. This makes it suitable for use in PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers) and other industrial control systems.
LED Brightness Control: The MCP4251 can be used to regulate the brightness of LEDs in lighting systems. By adjusting the resistance in series with the LEDs, the current and thus the brightness can be precisely controlled. The SPI interface allows for remote or automated control, making it ideal for use in smart lighting systems, automotive lighting, and display backlighting applications.
Programmable Gain Amplifier (PGA): The MCP4251 can be used to adjust the gain of operational amplifiers in signal conditioning circuits. By varying the resistance in the feedback loop, the gain of the amplifier can be precisely controlled via the SPI interface. This application is particularly useful in instrumentation, medical devices, and communication systems where adjustable gain is required for optimal signal processing.
Industrial Process Control: In industrial automation, the MCP4251 can be employed to control the setpoints of various process parameters, such as temperature, pressure, or flow rate. Its linear taper and volatile memory allow for real-time adjustments, while the SPI interface facilitates communication with central control systems. This makes it suitable for use in PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers) and other industrial control systems.
LED Brightness Control: The MCP4251 can be used to regulate the brightness of LEDs in lighting systems. By adjusting the resistance in series with the LEDs, the current and thus the brightness can be precisely controlled. The SPI interface allows for remote or automated control, making it ideal for use in smart lighting systems, automotive lighting, and display backlighting applications.
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