Digitally Controlled Potentiometers (DCPs) or digipots can be used in analogue signal processing circuits to replace potentiometers. They allow small adjustments to be made to the circuit by software, instead of a mechanical adjustment. Because this type of control is updated only infrequently, it often has a serial interface, like SPI. Some types have non-volatile memory to enable them to remember their last settings when the power is switched off. The same idea can be used to create Digital Volume Controls, attenuators, or other controls under digital control. Usually such devices feature quite a high degree of accuracy, and find applications in instrumention, mixing desks and other precision systems.

The MCP41010 single-channel digital potentiometer features 8-bit resolution (256 wiper steps), and an industry-standard SPI™ serial interface. The wiper position varies linearly and is controlled via the SPI interface. The MCP41010 has a resistance value of 10 kohm, outstanding AC and DC characteristics, and consumes <1 µA during static operation. Applications for the MCP41010 digital potentiometer include audio equipment (volume and tone controls), servo-motor control, battery charging and control, communications (line impedance matching), power supplies, instrumentation (gain, offset adjust), LCD contrast control and programmable filters.