CAT521

The CAT521 is a 8-bit digitally-programmable potentiometer (DPP™) configured for programmable voltage and DAC-like applications. Intended for final calibration of products such as camcorders, fax machines and cellular telephones on automated high volume production lines, it is also well suited for self-calibrating systems and for applications where equipment which requires periodic adjustment is either difficult to access or in a hazardous environment.

The programmable DPP CAT521 has an output voltage range which includes both supply rails. The wiper is buffered by a rail to rail op amp. The wiper setting, stored in non-volatile NVRAM memory, is not lost when the device is powered down and is automatically reinstated when power is returned. The wiper can be dithered to test new output values without effecting the stored settings and stored settings can be read back without disturbing the DPP's output.

The CAT521 is controlled with a simple 3-wire, Microwire-like serial interface. A Chip Select pin allows several devices to share a common serial interface. Communication back to the host controller is via a single serial data line thanks to the CAT521 Tri-Stated Data Output pin. A RDY/BSY output working in concert with an internal low voltage detector signals proper operation of the non-volatile NVRAM memory Erase/Write cycle.

The CAT521 is available in 0C to 70C commercial and -40C to 85C industrial operating temperature ranges. Both 14-pin plastic DIP and surface mount packages are available.