The MAX5477/MAX5478/MAX5479 nonvolatile, dual, linear-taper, digital potentiometers perform the function of a mechanical potentiometer, but replace the mechanics with a simple 2-wire digital interface. Each device performs the same function as a discrete potentiometer or variable resistor and has 256 tap points. The devices feature an internal, nonvolatile EEPROM used to store the wiper position for initialization during power-up. A write-protect feature prevents accidental overwrites of the EEPROM. The fast-mode I2C-compatible serial interface allows communication at data rates up to 400kbps, minimizing board space and reducing interconnection complexity in many applications. Three address inputs allow a total of eight unique address combinations.