Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX1037MEKA+T

Overview

MAX1037MEKA+T from Maxim Integrated is an 8-bit, 4-channel, low-power analog-to-digital converter with integrated track/hold, 2.048V internal reference, I²C-compatible 2-wire serial interface, and single-supply operation from 2.7V to 3.6V. It delivers 188ksps throughput with only 350µA supply current and supports software-configurable unipolar/bipolar and single-ended/pseudo-differential input modes for battery-powered sensor monitoring and system supervision.

For engineers reviewing the MAX1037MEKA+T datasheet, MAX1037MEKA+T pinout, MAX1037MEKA+T application, or MAX1037MEKA+T equivalent, key selection criteria include its 2.048V internal reference accuracy (±2 LSB TUE), 8-pin SOT23 package footprint, I²C fast-mode (400kHz) and high-speed mode (1.7MHz) timing compliance, and guaranteed operation across –40°C to +85°C.

Technical Context

The MAX1037MEKA+T uses successive-approximation architecture with on-chip track/hold capacitor and switched-capacitor DAC. Its analog input multiplexer supports four single-ended or two pseudo-differential channels, with acquisition time dependent on source impedance and clock mode (e.g., 588ns typical track/hold acquisition time).

It features AutoShutdown™ enabling sub-1µA power-down current and internal FIFO with channel-scan mode. The I²C interface operates in both Fast Mode (400kHz) and High-Speed Mode (1.7MHz), with configurable slave address (1100100) and support for repeated START conditions to maintain bus activity.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX1037MEKA+T is housed in an 8-pin SOT23 package (3.0mm × 1.7mm × 1.3mm), optimized for space-constrained portable designs and requiring minimal PCB area and thermal mass.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 8-bit, multichannel, I²C ADC applications.

Compared with ADS7822U and MCP3221A0T-E/OT, MAX1037MEKA+T uniquely combines 4-channel multiplexing, I²C high-speed mode, AutoShutdown™, and integrated 2.048V reference in an 8-pin SOT23 - making it optimal for compact, battery-sensitive, multi-sensor systems where pin count and power efficiency are critical.

Availability

MAX1037MEKA+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for handheld portable applications, medical instruments, and battery-powered test equipment requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle assurance, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MAX1037MEKA+T 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 demanding industrial, medical, and communications applications.

The MAX1036–MAX1039 family was engineered for ultra-low-power, space-constrained systems needing multichannel digitization without external references or complex timing circuitry - targeting portable instrumentation and embedded supervision.

FAQ

What is the absolute maximum input voltage range for MAX1037MEKA+T analog inputs?

The MAX1037MEKA+T analog inputs (AIN0–AIN3/REF) tolerate –0.3V to (VDD + 0.3V) without damage due to internal clamping diodes. However, for accurate conversion, input voltage must stay within GND –50mV to VDD +50mV. Exceeding VDD by >50mV requires limiting input current to ≤2mA via series resistance.

Does MAX1037MEKA+T support true differential input mode?

No, MAX1037MEKA+T supports only pseudo-differential mode: the '+' input is actively sampled by the track/hold circuit, while the '–' input serves as a stable reference point that must remain within ±0.5LSB of GND during conversion. True differential sampling (with simultaneous capture of both inputs) is not implemented.

How does the internal 2.048V reference affect full-scale input range in unipolar mode?

In unipolar single-ended mode, the MAX1037MEKA+T full-scale input range is 0V to 2.048V - meaning an input of 2.048V yields digital output 0xFF (255). In unipolar pseudo-differential mode, the range is 0V to 2.048V referenced to the '–' input, so differential input (V₊ – V_–) = 2.048V produces 0xFF.

Can MAX1037MEKA+T operate with an external reference below 2.048V?

Yes - the MAX1037MEKA+T accepts external reference voltages from 1.0V to VDD. When using an external reference (e.g., 1.25V), the full-scale range scales linearly: 1.25V input yields 0xFF, and resolution becomes ~4.88mV per LSB instead of 7.99mV with 2.048V.

What is the minimum acquisition time required before conversion starts in internal clock mode?

In internal clock mode, the MAX1037MEKA+T requires two internal clock cycles (≈889ns at 2.25MHz) for track/hold acquisition. This is fixed and independent of source impedance - unlike external clock mode, where acquisition time equals one SCL period and must be sized for RC settling based on source impedance and 18pF input capacitance.