The MAX5160/MAX5161 linear-taper digital potentiometers perform the same function as a mechanical potentiometer or a variable resistor. They consist of a fixed resistor and a wiper contact with 32 tap points that are digitally controlled by three lines for the 8-pin MAX5160 or by two lines for the 6-pin MAX5161.These parts are ideal for applications requiring digitally controlled resistors. Three resistance values are available for each part type: 50kΩ,100kΩ, and 200kΩ. A nominal resistor temperature coefficient of 50ppm/°C end-to-end and only 5ppm/°C ratiometric makes the MAX5160 ideal for applications requiring a low-temperature-coefficient variable resistor, such as low-tempco, adjustable-gain circuit configurations.The MAX5160 is available in an 8-pin µMAX package, and the MAX5161 is available in a 6-pin SOT23 package. Both devices are guaranteed over the extended-industrial temperature range (-40°C to +85°C).ApplicationsLCD Screen AdjustmentMechanical Potentiometer ReplacementsVolume Control