AD5142ABCPZ10-RL7 - Dual 10kΩ 256-Tap I²C Non-Volatile DigiPot | Analog Devices
MPN: AD5142ABCPZ10-RL7 ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $5.6 | $5.60 |
| 10 | $5.04 | $50.40 |
| 100 | $4.48 | $448.00 |
| 500 | $3.92 | $1,960.00 |
| 1,000 | $3.36 | $3,360.00 |
AD5142ABCPZ10-RL7 Overview
A digital potentiometer is a solid-state, resistor-array component whose wiper position is set by a digital code rather than mechanical motion, replacing mechanical trim pots in adjustable-gain, bias, calibration, and reference-trimming circuits. Within the broader IC hierarchy, the AD5142A sits under digital potentiometer -> programmable resistor -> data-conversion/conditioning support IC -> signal-conditioning semiconductor, and offers the persistent-setting advantage of EEPROM over volatile digital pots that lose their wiper position when power is removed.
Key specifications include ±8% nominal resistor tolerance (low for the category), 35 ppm/°C nominal temperature coefficient, 40 Ω typical wiper resistance at the ends of the array, up to ±6 mA continuous current density on the A/B/W pins, and 3 MHz I²C SCL clock. Non-volatile memory retains wiper and user data across power cycles, and an integrated soft-reset function reloads defaults on demand. The 16-lead LFCSP (3 × 3 mm) footprint saves board area over TSSOP-16 alternatives.
Architecturally, the AD5142A integrates two independent CMOS resistor ladders with EEPROM-backed wiper latches, an I²C slave decoder, and a charge-pump-driven EEPROM write path. The internal ladder uses string-resistor topology with CMOS transmission-gate wiper switches, achieving low wiper resistance and fast settling. Read-back of the wiper register and EEPROM contents is supported through the same I²C bus.
Typical applications include precision gain adjustment in instrumentation amplifiers, LCD contrast/brightness trimming, programmable voltage references, laser-driver bias calibration, and automotive audio volume/tone control. It is also used in industrial process control loops where mechanical pots must be eliminated to resist vibration.
Design consideration: place the AD5142A close to the node being trimmed to minimize leakage/parasitic pickup on the wiper, and respect the absolute maximum A/B/W current of ±6 mA — exceeding this degrades the internal switch contacts. Use proper I²C pull-ups (typically 2.2 kΩ to 10 kΩ depending on bus capacitance and VDD).
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in LFCSP-16 alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the bare manufacturer datasheet, supporting rapid engineering decisions.
Drop-in alternatives for AD5142ABCPZ10-RL7 — same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
Variants in this series
Same-series models that are drop-in compatible with AD5142ABCPZ10-RL7 (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Number of Taps, Interface, Function, Number of Channels.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
AD5142ABCPZ100-RL7
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$3.4 / Unit
View Datasheet →AD5142BCPZ10-RL7
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
AD5143BCPZ10-RL7
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
AD5141BCPZ10-RL7
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
AD5122ABCPZ10-RL7
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
AD5142ABCPZ10-RL7 Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Number of Potentiometers | 2 (dual) |
| Nominal End-to-End Resistance (R-AB) | 10 kΩ |
| Number of Taps | 256 positions |
| Interface | I²C-compatible (SCL up to 3 MHz) |
| Memory Type | Non-volatile EEPROM |
| Resistor Tolerance | ±8% |
| Temperature Coefficient | 35 ppm/°C nominal |
| Wiper Resistance (ends of array) | 40 Ω typical |
| Continuous Current on A/B/W Pins | ±6 mA max |
| Supply Voltage (VDD) | 2.3 V to 5.5 V |
| Operating Temperature | -40 °C to +125 °C |
| Package | 16-lead LFCSP (3 mm × 3 mm) with EP |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Taper | Linear |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| AEC-Q100 Qualification | Not AEC-Q100 qualified (industrial grade) |
| Soft Reset | Yes (loads default wiper setting) |
AD5142ABCPZ10-RL7 Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | A1 — Channel 1 terminal A (resistor end) |
| Pin 2 | W1 — Channel 1 wiper |
| Pin 3 | B1 — Channel 1 terminal B (resistor end) |
| Pin 4 | GND — Ground reference |
| Pin 5 | A0 — I²C address-select bit 0 |
| Pin 6 | SDA — I²C serial data (bidirectional) |
| Pin 7 | SCL — I²C serial clock |
| Pin 8 | VDD — Positive supply (2.3 V to 5.5 V) |
| Pin 9 | WP — Write-protect (active low) — disables EEPROM writes |
| Pin 10 | RS — Reset / EEPROM recall (active low) |
| Pin 11 | B2 — Channel 2 terminal B (resistor end) |
| Pin 12 | W2 — Channel 2 wiper |
| Pin 13 | A2 — Channel 2 terminal A (resistor end) |
| Pin 14 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 15 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 16 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin EP | EP — Exposed pad — connect to GND for thermal/electrical grounding |
Typical Applications
AD5142ABCPZ10-RL7 is suitable for 6 applications: Instrumentation Amplifier Gain Setting, Programmable Voltage Reference Trimming, LCD Contrast and Backlight Brightness Control, Laser Diode Bias Calibration, Industrial Process Control Calibration, Audio Attenuator and Volume Control.
Instrumentation Amplifier Gain Setting
The AD5142ABCPZ10-RL7 fits instrumentation amplifier gain setting because its dual 10 kΩ 256-tap channels can directly replace the gain-setting feedback resistor of parts like the AD620, AD8221, or AD8421, providing software-programmable gain from the I²C bus. With ~40 Ω per step (10 kΩ / 256) and 40 Ω wiper resistance, gain is set to within ~1% of target at 8-bit resolution, eliminating manual calibration in production. Placed adjacent to the in-amp's RG pins, both channels can independently trim gain and offset. Unlike mechanical trim pots, it survives shock and vibration and supports in-field re-calibration through the digital interface. Estimated power draw is well under 1 mA from the 2.3–5.5 V supply, leaving ample budget for the in-amp itself.
Recommended
Programmable Voltage Reference Trimming
Voltage references such as the ADR45xx, AD584, or REF19x require fine trim to achieve specified initial accuracy, and the AD5142ABCPZ10-RL7 is ideal for this role. Each 256-tap channel provides ~40 Ω resolution against a 10 kΩ nominal, allowing trim of the reference's output node with sub-mV precision. The on-chip EEPROM stores the calibrated wiper position permanently, so factory trim survives field installation and power cycling. Designers place one channel at the reference's trim pin and the second channel free for an adjacent bias or offset adjustment. The I²C interface enables automated end-of-line calibration scripts, removing manual potentiometer touch-up.
Recommended
LCD Contrast and Backlight Brightness Control
The AD5142ABCPZ10-RL7's dual channels suit LCD bias/contrast and backlight current control in a single 3 × 3 mm LFCSP footprint. Channel one sets the contrast divider feeding the LCD's V0 pin, while channel two programs the backlight driver's reference voltage, allowing synchronized brightness curves from one I²C command. The 35 ppm/°C temperature coefficient prevents visible contrast drift over industrial temperature ranges (-40 °C to +125 °C). On-chip EEPROM recall at power-up means the LCD boots to the desired contrast without MCU intervention — valuable for headless displays in industrial HMIs. Total quiescent current is in the microamp range, fitting always-on display designs.
Recommended
Laser Diode Bias Calibration
Laser diode drive circuits require precise, temperature-compensated bias currents set by a low-noise resistor in the feedback loop of a current driver. The AD5142ABCPZ10-RL7 replaces that resistor with two independent 10 kΩ / 256-tap channels, letting channel A set the bias and channel B set the modulation depth. With 40 Ω wiper resistance and ±6 mA terminal current, it covers bias ranges typical of 5 mW to 50 mW laser modules. Its 35 ppm/°C nominal TC matches well with low-drift laser-driver op-amps. EEPROM storage preserves the calibration through factory programming, and the I²C bus enables automated test equipment to dial in optimal bias without manual screwdriver access.
Recommended
Industrial Process Control Calibration
The AD5142ABCPZ10-RL7 enables in-circuit digital calibration of 4–20 mA current loops, RTD/thermocouple excitation currents, and strain-gauge bridge completion resistors. Its dual channels provide bridge completion on one side and excitation trim on the other, all from a 2.3–5.5 V supply that pairs with 3.3 V or 5 V industrial MCUs. The 16-lead LFCSP package operates from -40 °C to +125 °C and resists the vibration that plagues mechanical trim pots in factory environments. EEPROM-backed wiper recall means calibration survives field replacement or firmware restart without operator intervention. ±8% nominal tolerance is consistent with the calibration budget of most industrial analog front ends.
Recommended
Audio Attenuator and Volume Control
Although not specifically AEC-Q100 qualified, the AD5142ABCPZ10-RL7 is widely used in non-automotive audio volume and balance control where digital push-button or remote-control adjustment replaces a rotary pot. Its 256-tap resolution gives smooth logarithmic-feeling steps when mapped against a piecewise-linear gain curve, and dual channels handle left/right or volume/tone independently. The 40 Ω wiper resistance is low enough to avoid loading most line-level stages. With the EEPROM recalling the last user volume at power-on, the audio chain boots at a known level without software initialization — a common requirement in consumer audio amplifiers and powered speakers.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for AD5142ABCPZ10-RL7 — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | AD5142ABCPZ100-RL7 | AD5143BCPZ10-RL7 | AD5142BCPZ10-RL7 | AD5141BCPZ10-RL7 | AD5122ABCPZ10-RL7 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Analog Devices | Analog Devices | Analog Devices | Analog Devices | Analog Devices | Analog Devices |
| Package | 16-lead LFCSP (3 × 3 mm) | 16-lead LFCSP (3 × 3 mm) — same | 16-lead LFCSP (3 × 3 mm) — same | 16-lead LFCSP (3 × 3 mm) — same | 16-lead LFCSP (3 × 3 mm) — same | 16-lead LFCSP (3 × 3 mm) — same |
| Number of Channels | 2 | 2 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 2 |
| Number of Taps | 256 | 256 | 256 | 128 | 256 | 128 |
| Nominal Resistance (R-AB) | 10 kΩ | 100 kΩ | 10 kΩ | 10 kΩ | 10 kΩ | 10 kΩ |
| Resistor Tolerance | ±8% | ±8% | ±8% | ±8% | ±8% | ±8% |
| Memory Type | Non-volatile EEPROM | Non-volatile EEPROM | Non-volatile EEPROM | Non-volatile EEPROM | Non-volatile EEPROM | Non-volatile EEPROM |
| Interface | I²C | I²C | I²C | I²C | I²C | I²C |
| Operating Voltage | 2.3 V to 5.5 V | 2.3 V to 5.5 V | 2.3 V to 5.5 V | 2.3 V to 5.5 V | 2.3 V to 5.5 V | 2.3 V to 5.5 V |
| Operating Temperature | -40 °C to +125 °C | -40 °C to +125 °C | -40 °C to +125 °C | -40 °C to +125 °C | -40 °C to +125 °C | -40 °C to +125 °C |
Key Differentiators
- Dual 256-tap resolution in 3 × 3 mm LFCSP (vs AD5122ABCPZ10-RL7)
- Two independent channels, not one (vs AD5141BCPZ10-RL7)
- Half the channel count of AD5143A at same footprint (vs AD5143BCPZ10-RL7)
Design Notes
Place the AD5142A close to the node being trimmed (e.g., the in-amp gain pin) to minimize leakage and parasitic capacitance on the wiper. The exposed pad (EP) of the LFCSP-16 must be soldered to a copper pour connected to GND — this provides both thermal dissipation and a stable ground reference for the resistor ladder. Inadequate EP soldering raises junction temperature and shifts the 35 ppm/°C TC budget.
Respect the absolute maximum ±6 mA continuous current on each A, B, and W pin; exceeding this accelerates CMOS switch wear and degrades R-AB linearity over time. If your circuit must source or sink more than 6 mA through the potentiometer, buffer it with an external op-amp (e.g., AD8606) configured as a unity-gain follower on the wiper. Decouple VDD with a 0.1 µF X7R ceramic capacitor placed within 3 mm of the VDD pin.
The WP (write-protect) pin is active LOW — pulling it to GND disables all EEPROM writes, which is useful for protecting factory calibration but easy to forget. The RS (reset/recall) pin is also active LOW; asserting it loads the EEPROM-stored wiper value back into the wiper register. Do not leave RS floating — tie it to VDD through a 10 kΩ pull-up if unused, since an unintended low can repeatedly reset the wiper. I²C SDA and SCL also need pull-ups (typically 2.2 kΩ to 10 kΩ depending on bus capacitance and VDD).
When using the AD5142A as an AC signal attenuator (e.g., audio), note that the wiper-to-A and wiper-to-B capacitances (~5–10 pF typical) introduce a slight low-pass roll-off above ~1 MHz. For wideband signals, place a low-value resistor in series with the wiper to isolate the capacitance, or use the device only for DC/bias trim. Estimated: at 10 kΩ R-AB, the wiper node RC with 10 pF parasitic gives f₃dB ≈ 1.6 MHz — sufficient for audio but marginal above 10 MHz.
Compliance Information
RoHS and REACH compliant per Analog Devices product page. Industrial-grade only; not AEC-Q100 qualified — for automotive, choose a designated AEC-Q100 variant.
