**AD5246BKSZ100-RL7: A Comprehensive Technical Overview of the 100kΩ Dual-Channel Digital Potentiometer**

The **AD5246BKSZ100-RL7** from Analog Devices represents a significant advancement in integrated circuit technology for precision analog signal control. As a member of the company's extensive digital potentiometer portfolio, this device is engineered to replace traditional mechanical potentiometers with a robust, software-controlled, and space-saving solution. It is specifically designed for applications demanding high reliability, programmability, and minimal manual intervention.

This IC is a **dual-channel, 256-position digitally controlled variable resistor (VR)**. Each channel offers a nominal resistance of **100kΩ** between its terminal endpoints. The wiper position, which determines the output voltage, is set via a standard **I²C-compatible serial interface**, allowing for simple and efficient communication with a host microcontroller or processor. This digital control eliminates the physical wear and tear, noise, and environmental susceptibility inherent in mechanical pots, making it ideal for harsh or long-lifetime applications.

A key feature of the AD5246BKSZ100-RL7 is its versatile operating mode. It can be configured to function in either **potentiometer mode or rheostat mode**. In potentiometer mode, all three terminals (A, B, and W) are used, creating a programmable voltage divider. In rheostat mode, the wiper (W) and one end terminal (A or B) are used to create a digitally variable resistor. This flexibility allows designers to use a single component for a wide range of tasks, from adjusting reference voltages and setting gain to calibrating sensor signals.

The device operates from a single **2.7 V to 5.5 V supply voltage**, making it compatible with both 3.3V and 5V logic systems. It boasts a low temperature coefficient of 35 ppm/°C, ensuring stable performance across a wide temperature range. Furthermore, it features **non-volatile memory (EEMEM)** that stores the wiper's last position upon power-down. This ensures the device instantly returns to its previous configured state at power-up, which is critical for systems requiring consistent performance after cycling.

**ICGOOODFIND:** The AD5246BKSZ100-RL7 is a highly integrated, precise, and reliable solution for digital analog adjustment. Its dual-channel architecture, I²C interface, non-volatile memory, and flexible operating modes make it an exceptional choice for modern design in industrial control, audio equipment, optical networks, and automated test systems, providing superior performance over mechanical alternatives.

**Keywords:** **Digital Potentiometer**, **I²C Interface**, **Non-Volatile Memory**, **Dual-Channel**, **100kΩ**.