Single-channel 50kΩ digital pot with non-volatile wiper storage
The MAX5417NETA+ from Maxim Integrated is a single-channel digital potentiometer with a 50kΩ end-to-end resistance and 256 tap positions, controlled via an I²C interface. The non-volatile memory retains the wiper setting at power-off, so the device powers up to the last programmed position without requiring an external EEPROM or microcontroller initialization routine. The linear taper makes it suitable for voltage-divider and adjustable-regulator feedback applications rather than audio volume control, where a logarithmic taper is preferred. The supply range spans 2.7V to 5.25V, covering 3.3V and 5V logic rails common in industrial and instrumentation designs.
I²C bus integration with selectable address
The I²C interface operates at standard and fast-mode speeds. A selectable address pin allows up to two devices on the same bus — useful when calibrating multiple channels in a system. The ±25% tolerance on the end-to-end resistance is typical for digital pots; the wiper voltage divider ratio is what matters for accuracy, not the absolute resistance.