Intersil Announces Small Non-Volatile Push-Button Digitally-Controlled Potentiometers
Intersil Corp. announced the ISL22511 and ISL22512, described as the world’s smallest non-volatile push-button digitally-controlled potentiometers (DCPs). Described as easy-to-use, rugged devices, they are said to provide designers flexibility, while saving board space and power. The ISL22511/12 come in small micro-QFN packaging (2.1 x 1.6mm) and are said to be 25% smaller than their nearest competitor.
With what is described as a simple, easy-to-use push-button interface, the ISL22511 and ISL22512 can operate independently from a microcontroller. In fact, these devices have an automated store feature, eliminating the need for an extra step or microcontroller to activate the "store" function. This stores the last wiper setting in the integrated EEPROM memory so the device will recall the last wiper position when it is powered on.
For flexibility, the two devices have multiple modes. One mode activates the auto-store mode and another keeps manual-store and activate wiper storage on command. Both the ISL22511 and ISL22512 also feature a user-activated, power-saving shutdown mode that prevents additional current from flowing through the DCP when initiated. These devices also have a two-mode auto increment/decrement function that allows the end user to hold the pin until it achieves the desired position. This is very convenient in the 32-tap ISL22511, allowing the user to transition through all the wiper positions without repeatedly pressing a button.
The ISL22511 is a 32-tap device designed for applications needing wider dynamic range and higher resolution than a 16-tap device. Often, however, 16 settings are sufficient for adding an end-user adjustment feature. For those applications, Intersil offers the 16-tap ISL22512.
With a high temperature rating of 125°C, the ISL22511 and ISL22512 are both said to be rugged DCPs able to withstand the tough environments of automotive and industrial temperature ranges. For those applications that do not need to store the wiper position or use the EEPROM elsewhere in the circuit, Intersil also offers the volatile ISL23511 and ISL23512, 32-tap and 16-tap respectively.
The ISL22511 is available now in a 10-lead micro-TQFN package priced at $1.18 per unit in 1,000-unit quantities. The device is also available in an 8-lead SOIC package priced at $1.16 per unit in 1,000 unit quantities.
The ISL22512 is available now in a 10-lead micro-TQFN package priced at $0.75 per unit in 1,000-unit quantities. The device is also available in an 8-lead SOIC package priced at $0.73 per unit in 1,000 unit quantities.
