Single 50kΩ digital pot with 256-tap I²C control
The MAX5395MATA+T from Analog Devices is a single-channel, linear-taper digital potentiometer with 256 wiper taps and a 50kΩ end-to-end resistance. It communicates over an I²C bus with a selectable address, allowing multiple devices on the same two-wire interface without conflict. The part operates from a 1.7V to 5.5V supply, making it compatible with both 1.8V and 3.3V logic systems, and is specified over the -40°C to +125°C temperature range for industrial and automotive environments.
What the key ratings mean for your BOM
The 256-tap resolution provides 0.39% step size relative to the 50kΩ total, which is fine enough for gain trimming, offset nulling, or adjustable reference biasing in sensor signal chains. The wiper resistance is typically 25Ω, low enough that it doesn't dominate the divider ratio at mid-scale settings. The 50ppm/°C temperature coefficient keeps the resistance stable across the full -40°C to +125°C range, so a calibration performed at room temperature holds within about 0.5% over temperature. The supply range from 1.7V to 5.5V means the same BOM line can serve a 1.8V IoT edge node and a 5V industrial controller without a voltage translator.
Package and footprint notes for layout
The part is housed in an 8-WFDFN exposed-pad package (8-TDFN-EP, 2x2 mm body). The exposed pad must be soldered to a PCB thermal land and connected to the ground plane for rated thermal performance. The I²C interface uses standard open-drain lines with pull-up resistors sized for the bus capacitance and supply voltage. The selectable address pin allows up to two devices on the same bus (or more with an I²C mux).
Lifecycle and sourcing posture
The MAX5395MATA+T carries an Active lifecycle status from Analog Devices, with no announced end-of-life or last-time-buy schedule. It is ROHS3 compliant.