Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated ICL8069ACSA

Overview

ICL8069ACSA from Maxim Integrated is a 1.2V temperature-compensated bandgap voltage reference IC in 8-pin SO package, specified for 0°C to +70°C operation, with guaranteed 10ppm/°C max temperature coefficient, 50µA minimum reverse current, and 1.20V–1.25V output voltage at 500µA. It serves as a precision low-voltage reference in ADC/DAC signal chains and portable instrumentation.

For engineers reviewing the ICL8069ACSA datasheet, ICL8069ACSA pinout, ICL8069ACSA application, or ICL8069ACSA equivalent, key selection considerations include its 10ppm/°C tempco guarantee, low 50µA bias current requirement, stable 1.2V output under 50µA–5mA reverse current, SO-8 package compatibility, and qualification for commercial-temperature industrial measurement systems.

Technical Context

The ICL8069ACSA implements a two-terminal bandgap reference topology operating in reverse-bias mode, delivering a fixed 1.2V nominal output without external components. Its internal curvature compensation ensures monotonic temperature behavior across 0°C to +70°C.

It achieves low dynamic impedance (<2Ω typical) and RMS noise of 5µV (10Hz–10kHz) at 500µA reverse current, enabling high-resolution analog conversion without added filtering. Stability is maintained down to 50µA reverse current, with no oscillation observed when used with ≥4.7µF shunt capacitance per datasheet Note 2.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

ICL8069ACSA is housed in an 8-pin Small Outline (SO) plastic package (MS012), with exposed die pad not electrically connected. Pin 1 is ANODE; Pin 8 is CATHODE; Pins 2–7 are No Connect (N.C.).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar voltage reference applications.

Compared with ICL8069ACSA, MAX6126AASA21 offers superior stability and ultra-low power but at higher unit cost and tighter layout sensitivity, while REF191GS trades tempco for broader temperature qualification-making ICL8069ACSA optimal only for legacy commercial-grade designs where cost and SO-8 footprint are primary constraints.

Availability

ICL8069ACSA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable instrumentation, analog-to-digital converter reference design, and threshold detector circuits requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence support.

Supply support for ICL8069ACSA 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) designs precision analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, medical, and communications systems.

The ICL8069 series was developed as a low-cost, low-voltage bandgap reference family targeting commercial-grade portable test equipment and embedded measurement subsystems.

FAQ

What is the guaranteed temperature coefficient of the ICL8069ACSA?

The ICL8069ACSA has a guaranteed maximum temperature coefficient of 10ppm/°C over the 0°C to +70°C operating range, as confirmed in the Maxim datasheet Absolute Maximum Ratings table and Electrical Characteristics section. This specification applies specifically to the ICL8069ACSA variant and is measured at 500µA reverse current. The 10ppm/°C limit ensures predictable output drift in commercial-grade instrumentation where calibration intervals exceed one year. ICL8069ACSA maintains this performance without requiring external trimming or compensation circuitry.

Can the ICL8069ACSA operate below 50µA reverse current?

No-the ICL8069ACSA is not characterized or guaranteed for stable operation below 50µA reverse current. The datasheet specifies 50µA as the minimum reverse current for guaranteed output voltage accuracy and temperature coefficient performance. At currents lower than 50µA, output voltage may deviate significantly, dynamic impedance rises, and noise increases beyond the rated 5µV RMS. For ICL8069ACSA designs, the reverse current must be maintained within 50µA–5mA to meet published specifications. Operating outside this range risks reference inaccuracy and instability.

What package type does the ICL8069ACSA use?

The ICL8069ACSA uses an 8-pin Small Outline (SO) plastic package, also designated MS012 or SOIC-N, with standard 0.150" body width and 1.27mm lead pitch. This is explicitly stated in the Ordering Information table and Package Information section of the Maxim datasheet. The SO-8 footprint matches industry-standard pick-and-place and reflow profiles, distinguishing it from TO-92 and TO-52 variants like ICL8069ACSQ or ICL8069CCZQ. ICL8069ACSA's SO-8 package supports automated assembly and provides better thermal dissipation than through-hole alternatives.

Is the ICL8069ACSA pin-compatible with other ICL8069 variants?

Yes-the ICL8069ACSA shares identical pinout (ANODE on Pin 1, CATHODE on Pin 8, N.C. on Pins 2–7) and SO-8 package with all other SO-packaged ICL8069 variants including ICL8069BCSA, ICL8069CCSA, and ICL8069DCSA. However, electrical differences exist: ICL8069ACSA guarantees 10ppm/°C max tempco, while ICL8069BCSA is rated at 25ppm/°C, and ICL8069CCSA at 50ppm/°C. Substituting between them requires verification of system-level tempco budget. ICL8069ACSA remains functionally interchangeable in SO-8 layouts but not electrically equivalent across all grades.

Why is the ICL8069ACSA marked "Not Recommended for New Designs"?

The ICL8069ACSA is marked "Not Recommended for New Designs" because Maxim discontinued the wafer process used to manufacture it, and no second-source or drop-in replacement exists with identical specs and SO-8 footprint. While the datasheet remains available for legacy support, Maxim recommends the MAX6126AASA21 or REF191GS as modern alternatives. ICL8069ACSA continues to be stocked for repair and maintenance of existing equipment, but Aetrix Electronics advises new designs to select actively supported references to avoid future obsolescence risk and ensure long-term supply continuity.