Microchip MCP102T-270E/TT Voltage Supervisor Datasheet and Application Circuit Design Guide
Introduction
The Microchip MCP102T-270E/TT is a precision voltage supervisor IC designed to monitor power supply voltages in a wide range of electronic systems. It ensures system reliability by providing a reset signal to the host microcontroller or processor whenever the supply voltage drops below a predefined threshold. This article explores the key features of the MCP102T-270E/TT, its datasheet specifications, and a practical application circuit design guide.
Key Features and Datasheet Overview
The MCP102T-270E/TT is part of Microchip’s family of voltage supervisors, offering a fixed threshold voltage of 2.7V, which is ideal for monitoring 3V systems. Key characteristics include:
- Ultra-low supply current (typically 5.5 µA), making it suitable for battery-powered applications.
- Push-pull or open-drain output configuration (MCP102T has a push-pull output).
- Small SOT-23 package, saving board space in compact designs.
- High accuracy threshold voltage (±1.5% tolerance), ensuring reliable monitoring.
- Manual reset input capability, allowing external forced reset.
The device operates over a wide temperature range (-40°C to +125°C), catering to industrial and automotive environments. The datasheet provides detailed electrical characteristics, timing diagrams, and performance graphs to assist designers in validating operation under specific conditions.

Application Circuit Design Guide
A typical application circuit for the MCP102T-270E/TT is straightforward, requiring minimal external components. Below is a basic design for monitoring a 3.3V power rail:
1. Power Supply Connection: Connect VDD pin to the power supply to be monitored (e.g., 3.3V rail).
2. Ground Connection: Connect VSS pin to system ground.
3. Output Connection: The RESET output pin can be directly connected to the reset pin of a microcontroller. Since the MCP102T has a push-pull output, no external pull-up resistor is needed.
4. Manual Reset Option: If required, connect a push-button switch between the MR (Manual Reset) pin and ground. A debounce capacitor (e.g., 100nF) can be added near the switch for noise immunity.
5. Bypass Capacitor: Place a 0.1µF ceramic capacitor close to the VDD pin to stabilize the supply and filter noise.
This circuit ensures that the RESET signal remains asserted during power-up, power-down, or brown-out conditions, preventing erratic operation in the controlled system.
ICGOOODFIND Summary
The MCP102T-270E/TT is a robust, low-power voltage supervisor ideal for ensuring system stability in 3V-based designs. Its high accuracy, small form factor, and manual reset capability make it a versatile choice for embedded systems across consumer, industrial, and automotive applications. Designers can leverage its simple implementation to enhance reliability without significant board space or cost overhead.
Keywords:
Voltage Supervisor, Reset Circuit, Brown-out Protection, Low-Power Design, Microcontroller Interface.
