MCP42050-I/SL Microchip Integrated Circuit (Small Outline Packages) In Stock
The MCP42050-I/SL is a dual-channel 50 kΩ digital potentiometer with 256 wiper positions and SPI interface from Microchip in a 14-pin SOIC package. It enables programmable resistance control for gain adjustment, offset trimming, and analog signal processing. Ideal for audio volume control, sensor calibration, and test equipment requiring software-controlled resistance.
- Manufacturer
- Microchip
- Package
- Small Outline Packages
- Pin Count
- 14
- Lifecycle
- ACTIVE
- Datasheet
- MCP42050-I/SL Datasheet PDF
- Category
- Integrated Circuit
- Price
- From $2.0800(MOQ 1)
- Temp Range
- -40.0°C to 85.0°C
- RoHS
- Compliant
- Lead Time
- 3–7 business days
- Shipping
- DHL Express · Worldwide
Key Features
- Dual independent 50 kΩ potentiometer channels with 256-step resolution
- SPI 3-wire serial interface for easy microcontroller integration
- 14-pin SOIC package for straightforward PCB assembly
- Non-volatile wiper position storage available in related family members
- Wide supply voltage compatibility with CMOS logic levels
Applications
The MCP42050-I/SL is used in applications requiring software-adjustable resistance such as automatic gain control in audio circuits, offset trimming in precision analog front-ends, and bias adjustment in sensor conditioning boards. Its dual-channel architecture allows simultaneous control of two independent resistance elements with a single SPI interface, simplifying microcontroller firmware. It is well-suited for test and measurement equipment, LCD contrast adjustment, and programmable filter cutoff frequency control.
Specifications
| Pbfree Code | Yes |
| Manufacturer Package Code | SOIC-14 |
| Factory Lead Time | 7Weeks |
| YTEOL | 8 |
| Bandwidth-Nom | 0.28kHz |
| Control Interface | 3-WIRE SERIAL |
| Converter Type | DIGITAL POTENTIOMETER |
| JESD-30 Code | R-PDSO-G14 |
| JESD-609 Code | e3 |
| Number of Functions | 2 |
| Number of Positions | 256 |
| Package Body Material | PLASTIC/EPOXY |
| Package Equivalence Code | SOP14,.24 |
| Package Shape | RECTANGULAR |
| Package Style | SMALL OUTLINE |
| Peak Reflow Temperature (Cel) | 260 |
| Qualification Status | Not Qualified |
| Resistance Law | LINEAR |
| Resistance Tolerance-Max | 20% |
| Resistor Terminal Voltage-Max | 5V |
| Screening Level | TS 16949 |
| Supply Current-Max | 0.6mA |
| Supply Voltage-Nom | 5V |
| Surface Mount | YES |
| Technology | CMOS |
| Temperature Coefficient-Nom | 800ppm/°C |
| Temperature Grade | INDUSTRIAL |
| Terminal Finish | Matte Tin (Sn) |
| Terminal Form | GULL WING |
| Terminal Pitch | 1.27mm |
| Terminal Position | DUAL |
| Time@Peak Reflow Temperature-Max (s) | 40 |
| Total Resistance-Nom | 50000Ω |
| Package | Small Outline Packages |
Compliance & Regulatory
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| Lead-Free | Yes (Pb-Free) |
| Moisture Sensitivity Level | MSL 1 |
| ECCN | EAR99 |
| HTS Code | 8542.39.00.01 |
| Country of Origin | Thailand |
Alternate & Equivalent Parts
No known alternates. Submit an RFQ and our team can suggest alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many resistance steps does the MCP42050-I/SL provide, and how does this affect resolution in a voltage divider application?
The MCP42050-I/SL provides 256 wiper positions over a 50 kΩ end-to-end resistance, giving a step size of approximately 196 Ω per step. In a voltage divider application powered from a 3.3 V supply, this corresponds to a voltage resolution of about 12.9 mV per step. This resolution is sufficient for audio volume control, LCD contrast adjustment, and analog bias trimming in embedded systems where mechanical potentiometers are impractical.
What SPI clock speed does the MCP42050-I/SL support, and how does the 3-wire interface simplify microcontroller connections?
The MCP42050-I/SL uses a 3-wire SPI interface (SCK, SDI, CS) that is compatible with standard SPI peripherals in virtually all microcontrollers. This eliminates the need for dedicated DAC hardware or PWM-filter circuits to achieve analog resistance control. The SPI protocol allows the wiper position of both channels to be updated with a single 16-bit transfer, minimizing communication overhead in real-time control applications running at typical SPI speeds of 10 MHz.
Is MCP42050-I/SL suitable for replacing a mechanical trimmer potentiometer in a production calibration procedure?
Yes. The MCP42050-I/SL is a direct digital replacement for mechanical 50 kΩ trimmer potentiometers, offering 256 discrete positions controlled via SPI without any manual adjustment. In production calibration, a microcontroller can automatically sweep the wiper through all 256 positions and lock the optimal setting, eliminating human error and reducing calibration time. For permanent storage of the calibrated position, pair it with non-volatile memory since the MCP42050 does not retain wiper position after power-off.
Related Guides
1206 100 uF MLCC Design Guide for Compact Bulk Decoupling
Design guidance for applying CL31A107MQHNNNE and related 1206 MLCCs in compact bulk decoupling networks.
Jul 3, 2026
0402 10 nF MLCC Design Guide for High-Speed Decoupling
Practical design guidance for using CL05B103KB5NNNC and related 0402 MLCCs in high-speed decoupling networks.
Jul 3, 2026
CL31A107MQHNNNE 1206 100 uF MLCC Selection Guide
How to choose CL31A107MQHNNNE and related 1206 MLCCs for low-voltage bulk capacitance and regulator stability.
Jul 2, 2026
CL05B103KB5NNNC 0402 10 nF X7R MLCC Selection Guide
How to choose CL05B103KB5NNNC and related 0402 MLCCs for bypassing, filtering, voltage derating, and sourcing.
Jul 2, 2026
Why Buy from FindMyChip
About Microchip
Microchip is a leading electronic component manufacturer. FindMyChip sources Microchip ICs directly from authorized China distributors, offering competitive pricing and reliable stock.
| Qty. | Unit Price | Ext. Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1+ | $2.8200 | $2.82 |
| 2+ | $2.8070 | $5.61 |
| 3+ | $2.7400 | $8.22 |
| 25+ | $2.3320 | $58.30 |
| 100+ | $2.1500 | $215.00 |
| 1000+ | $2.0800 | $2080.00 |
In Stock · 24h Response · Worldwide Shipping
Response within 24 hours · Worldwide shipping
“We've been using FindMyChip for 2 years. Pricing is consistently 20-30% below Mouser/DigiKey for volume orders.”