Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated DG444CY

Overview

DG444CY from Maxim Integrated is a quad, normally closed (NC), single-pole/single-throw (SPST) analog switch IC designed for precision signal routing in bipolar and single-supply systems. It delivers 85Ω max on-resistance, 4Ω max on-resistance matching between channels, <5nA off-leakage at +85°C, 10pC max charge injection, and rail-to-rail analog signal handling up to ±15V. It is used in test equipment, audio signal routing, and military radios where low distortion and channel-to-channel consistency are critical.

For engineers reviewing the DG444CY datasheet, DG444CY pinout, DG444CY application, or DG444CY equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed R_ON flatness (9Ω max), TTL/CMOS logic compatibility, ESD tolerance (2000V min), dual-supply operation (±4.5V to ±20V), and narrow SOIC-16 packaging for space-constrained industrial designs.

Technical Context

The DG444CY implements four independent NC SPST switches fabricated using a 44V silicon-gate process, enabling robust operation across wide supply ranges. Its architecture guarantees matched on-resistance (≤4Ω) and flat on-resistance (≤9Ω) over the full analog signal range - specifications validated only under bipolar-supply conditions per datasheet Note 4.

Switching is controlled by active-low logic inputs (IN1–IN4), with VL referenced to +5V for TTL compatibility. The device features rail-to-rail analog signal handling, low power consumption (35µW max), and electrostatic discharge protection rated to 2000V per Method 3015.7 - all while maintaining sub-250ns turn-on and sub-70ns turn-off times at ±16.5V supplies.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

DG444CY is housed in a 16-pin narrow SOIC (SO) package with standard 0.15-inch body width and 1.27mm pitch. Pin 1 is marked with a beveled corner or dot; the exposed pad variant is not used in this SOIC configuration.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar analog switch applications.

Compared with ADG1414BRUZ and TS5A3157DCKR, DG444CY uniquely combines quad NC topology, bipolar supply capability, guaranteed R_ON matching, and industrial temperature-rated leakage performance - making it irreplaceable in legacy ±15V test and military systems requiring fail-safe closure.

Availability

DG444CY is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for test equipment, audio signal routing, and military radio applications requiring stable component supply, long-term obsolescence management, and traceable sourcing from authorized channels.

Supply support for DG444CY includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Maxim Integrated (now part of Analog Devices) is a U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, communications, and computing markets.

The DG444CY belongs to Maxim's legacy analog switch product line, engineered for precision signal routing in harsh environments - emphasizing low leakage, matched performance, and robust ESD tolerance in ±15V infrastructure.

FAQ

What is the default switch state of DG444CY when power is removed?

The DG444CY features normally closed (NC) switches, meaning all four SPST paths remain conductive when V+ and V− are unpowered. This fail-safe behavior prevents signal interruption during power sequencing or brownout events - a key design feature confirmed in the General Description and Functional Diagram sections of the datasheet. DG444CY maintains continuity until logic inputs (IN1–IN4) are actively driven high to open the switches.

Does DG444CY support single-supply operation, and what is the minimum required voltage?

Yes, DG444CY supports single-supply operation from +10V to +30V, with V− tied to GND. The minimum valid single-supply voltage is +10V, as specified in the Absolute Maximum Ratings and Electrical Characteristics tables. Operation below +10V is not characterized and may result in undefined switching behavior or increased on-resistance - the datasheet confirms guaranteed performance only within the stated +10V to +30V range.

What is the maximum analog signal voltage range supported by DG444CY?

DG444CY supports an analog signal range of ±15V when operated with bipolar supplies (e.g., V+ = +15V, V− = −15V). This rail-to-rail capability is explicitly listed in the Electrical Characteristics table under "Analog Signal Range" and verified in Typical Operating Characteristics plots (DG444/5-4 through DG444/5-7). Exceeding ±15V risks violating the absolute maximum rating of (V+ − V−) ≤ 44V and may cause latch-up or permanent damage.

How does the VL pin affect logic compatibility for DG444CY?

The VL pin sets the logic threshold voltage for IN1–IN4 inputs: connecting VL to +5V enables TTL-compatible operation (logic high ≥ 2.4V, logic low ≤ 0.8V), while tying VL to V+ enables CMOS-level compatibility. This dual-mode flexibility is documented in the Applications Information section and Pin Description table. DG444CY requires VL to be externally biased - it is not internally regulated - and must remain within (GND − 0.3V) to (V+ + 0.3V) per Absolute Maximum Ratings.

Is DG444CY pin-compatible with the original industry-standard DG444 devices?

Yes, DG444CY is a plug-in upgrade for industry-standard DG444 devices, retaining identical pinout, footprint, and functional behavior while improving key parameters including R_ON match (4Ω max vs. older 10Ω spec), charge injection (10pC max), and off-leakage (<5nA at +85°C). The datasheet explicitly states "Plug-In Upgrades for Industry-Standard DG444/DG445" under New Features, confirming mechanical and electrical drop-in compatibility for existing SOIC-16 designs.