Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX1203BCAP
- Part No.:
- MAX1203BCAP
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Analog to Digital Converters (ADC)
- Package:
- 20-SSOP (0.209", 5.30mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
MAX1203BCAP.pdf
- Description:
- IC ADC 12BIT SAR 20SSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:1,024
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Product details
Overview
MAX1203BCAP from Maxim Integrated is a 12-bit, 8-channel serial analog-to-digital converter (ADC) designed for mixed 5V analog / 3V digital supply systems. It features single-ended or differential input configuration, 133ksps sampling rate, ±1 LSB INL accuracy, and SPI/MICROWIRE-compatible 4-wire serial interface - enabling direct connection to TMS320-family DSPs in battery-powered instrumentation and medical data acquisition.
For engineers reviewing the MAX1203BCAP datasheet, MAX1203BCAP pinout, MAX1203BCAP application, or MAX1203BCAP equivalent, this device supports flexible power-down modes (down to 2µA), user-adjustable digital output levels via VL pin (2.7V–5.25V), external reference operation at 4.096V, and high-accuracy process control with channel-to-channel offset matching of ±0.1 LSB.
Technical Context
The MAX1203BCAP implements successive-approximation architecture with integrated track/hold circuitry, supporting both internal clock (1.7MHz) and external clock (up to 2MHz) conversion timing. Its analog front-end accepts unipolar (0V to VREF) or bipolar (±VREF/2) inputs across eight single-ended or four differential channels.
Digital interfacing uses a 4-wire SPI/MICROWIRE protocol with CS, SCLK, DIN, and DOUT; SSTRB provides synchronous strobe output for precise timing alignment with DSPs. The VL pin decouples logic-level definition from VDD, allowing seamless integration with 3V microcontrollers while maintaining 5V analog supply integrity.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Resolution | 12-bit - delivers 1 LSB = 0.024% full-scale precision for high-fidelity sensor digitization. |
| Sampling Rate | 133ksps - enables real-time capture of signals up to 4.5MHz small-signal bandwidth with undersampling capability. |
| INL (Integral Nonlinearity) | ±1 LSB - ensures monotonicity and accurate transfer function across temperature (0°C to +70°C). |
| Power Consumption | 1.5mA operating / 2µA full power-down - supports energy-constrained portable designs with adaptive shutdown between conversions. |
| Analog Input Range | Unipolar: 0V to 4.096V; Bipolar: ±2.048V - configurable per channel via software-controlled control byte. |
| Digital I/O Voltage Range | VL = 2.7V to 5.25V - sets DOUT/SSTRB output swing independently of VDD, enabling mixed-voltage system interoperability. |
| Serial Interface Speed | Up to 2MHz SCLK - allows fast data transfer compatible with standard SPI peripherals without external level-shifting. |
Pinout & Package
MAX1203BCAP is housed in a 20-pin SSOP package (body size 7.2mm × 5.3mm, 0.65mm pitch), RoHS-compliant and lead-free.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CH0–CH7 (Pins 1–8) | Analog input multiplexer channels | Selectable as single-ended (GND-referenced) or differential (paired CH0/CH1 etc.) inputs; support pseudo-differential sampling with stable IN− requirement. |
| VSS (Pin 9) | Negative analog supply | Accepts 0V (single-supply) or −5V (dual-supply) operation; defines bipolar input common-mode range. |
| SHDN (Pin 10) | Three-level shutdown control | Pulled low → 10µA shutdown; open → external compensation mode; tied to VDD → internal compensation mode. |
| REF (Pin 11) | Reference buffer output / ADC reference input | Receives external 4.096V reference; internal buffer disabled when REFADJ = VDD (required for MAX1203). |
| REFADJ (Pin 12) | Reference buffer gain adjustment | Tied to VDD to disable internal reference buffer - mandatory for MAX1203 operation with external reference. |
| GND (Pin 13) | Analog ground / IN− for single-ended mode | Common return for analog circuitry; serves as implicit negative input in single-ended conversions. |
| VL (Pin 14) | Digital output supply | Sets DOUT/SSTRB logic-high level (2.7V–5.25V); isolates digital interface voltage from analog VDD. |
| DOUT (Pin 15) | Serial data output | MSB-first 12-bit result clocked on SCLK falling edge; high-impedance when CS = high. |
| SSTRB (Pin 16) | Serial strobe output | Pulses high before MSB in external clock mode; indicates conversion start/end in internal clock mode - synchronizes DSP read timing. |
| DIN (Pin 17) | Serial data input | Accepts 8-bit control byte defining channel, unipolar/bipolar, single/differential, and clock/power-down mode. |
| CS (Pin 18) | Active-low chip select | Enables serial interface; DOUT enters high-Z state when CS = high to prevent bus contention. |
| SCLK (Pin 19) | Serial clock input | Drives data shift-in/out and (in external mode) controls conversion timing; 40–60% duty cycle required. |
| VDD (Pin 20) | Positive analog supply | +5V ±5% supply powering analog core, track/hold, and reference buffer; supports single or dual supply configurations. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 8-channel multiplexer with software-selectable input mode | Supports both single-ended (8 channels) and differential (4 channels) configurations via 3-bit SEL field in control byte - eliminates external signal conditioning for multi-sensor systems. |
| User-adjustable digital output voltage (VL pin) | Enables direct interfacing with 3V, 3.3V, or 5V logic families without level-shifters - reduces BOM count and layout complexity in mixed-voltage PCBs. |
| Two software-configurable power-down modes | Fast power-down (30µA) and full power-down (2µA) allow dynamic current optimization between conversions - extends battery life in portable instruments. |
| SPI/MICROWIRE/TMS320-compatible serial interface | 4-wire interface operates at up to 2MHz with no external logic required - simplifies firmware integration and enables deterministic timing for real-time control loops. |
| Channel-to-channel offset matching (±0.1 LSB) | Ensures consistent baseline across all inputs - critical for ratiometric measurements and multi-channel calibration in medical and industrial DAQ systems. |
Applications
| Battery-Powered Portable Instrumentation | Medical Patient Monitoring Systems |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Handheld blood glucose meters and portable ECG recorders requiring low quiescent current and high DC accuracy over temperature. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary ADC digitizing analog biosensor outputs with 12-bit resolution and ±1 LSB INL, synchronized via SSTRB to MCU sampling triggers. Use Value: 2µA full power-down current and VL-configurable 3V logic outputs enable direct connection to ultra-low-power MCUs, extending runtime beyond 100 hours on coin-cell batteries. |
Use Scenario: Multi-parameter patient monitors acquiring ECG, SpO₂, and respiration waveforms simultaneously with clinical-grade linearity. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-precision analog front-end ADC providing synchronized 133ksps sampling across 8 analog channels with channel-to-channel offset matching ≤ ±0.1 LSB. Use Value: Bipolar input mode (±2.048V) and 70dB SINAD support accurate differential biopotential measurement; REFADJ pin allows fine-tuning of reference gain for calibrated sensor scaling. |
| Industrial Process Control Sensors | Automated Test Equipment (ATE) Front-Ends |
Use Scenario: PLC analog input modules measuring 4–20mA current loops, thermocouples, and RTDs in factory automation environments. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Precision ADC with programmable unipolar/bipolar range and robust input protection (±0.3V beyond rails) handling noisy industrial analog signals. Use Value: ±1 LSB INL and ±0.1 LSB channel-to-channel offset matching ensure repeatable calibration across multiple sensor inputs; VSS pin supports true bipolar operation with −5V supply. |
Use Scenario: Modular ATE systems requiring fast, accurate digitization of DUT outputs across multiple test channels with minimal board space. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Compact 20-pin SSOP ADC delivering 133ksps throughput with deterministic SSTRB strobe for synchronized multi-channel capture in parallel test architectures. Use Value: SPI-compatible interface and 2MHz SCLK enable tight timing control in high-speed test sequences; small SSOP footprint allows dense channel packing on ATE carrier boards. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 12-bit serial ADC applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADS7822U | 12-bit, 200ksps, single-supply (2.7–5.25V), internal reference only, no VL pin, SPI-only interface | Lacks dual-supply support and external reference flexibility; unsuitable for bipolar or mixed-rail systems | Choose ADS7822U only for simple 3V-only systems where internal reference suffices and bipolar input is unnecessary. |
| MAX11131ETE+ | 12-bit, 500ksps, internal reference, VL pin supported, but requires 1.8–3.6V digital supply (not 2.7–5.25V) | Higher speed but narrower VL range limits compatibility with 5V-tolerant microcontrollers | Select MAX11131ETE+ when >200ksps sampling is required and digital interface voltage is strictly ≤3.6V. |
Compared with ADS7822U and MAX11131ETE+, the MAX1203BCAP uniquely combines external reference support, ±5V dual-supply operation, 2.7–5.25V VL flexibility, and 133ksps throughput - making it optimal for mixed-voltage, bipolar, and battery-sensitive applications where reference accuracy and power adaptability are critical.
Availability
MAX1203BCAP is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered instrumentation, medical monitoring systems, and industrial process control requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.
Supply support for MAX1203BCAP 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 semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, medical, and communications applications.
The MAX1202/MAX1203 family was engineered for mixed 5V/3V data acquisition systems - delivering precision ADC functionality with flexible power management, robust analog input protection, and seamless digital interface compatibility across voltage domains.
FAQ
What is the reference configuration requirement for MAX1203BCAP?
The MAX1203BCAP requires an external 4.096V reference applied to the REF pin. Unlike the MAX1202, it has no internal reference; the internal reference buffer must be disabled by tying REFADJ to VDD. This configuration ensures precise, stable conversion accuracy independent of VDD variations and supports custom reference sources for enhanced system calibration.
How does the VL pin affect MAX1203BCAP digital interface behavior?
The VL pin on the MAX1203BCAP directly sets the high-level output voltage of DOUT and SSTRB - ranging from 2.7V to 5.25V. This allows the MAX1203BCAP to drive 3V, 3.3V, or 5V logic families without external level shifters. When VL = 3.3V, DOUT outputs are fully compatible with modern low-voltage MCUs while VDD remains at +5V for optimal analog performance.
Can MAX1203BCAP operate in bipolar input mode, and what supply conditions are needed?
Yes, the MAX1203BCAP supports bipolar input mode (±VREF/2 = ±2.048V) when configured via the UNI/BIP bit in the control byte. This requires VSS = −5V ±5% to establish the negative rail - enabling true differential measurement of AC-coupled or centered analog signals such as audio or biopotentials without external op-amp level-shifting circuitry.
What are the power-down current specifications for MAX1203BCAP?
The MAX1203BCAP offers two software-selectable power-down modes: fast power-down draws 30µA, and full power-down draws just 2µA (typical). These states are activated via PD1/PD0 bits in the control byte. Full power-down is ideal for intermittent sampling in battery-powered devices, while fast power-down enables rapid wake-up for burst-mode acquisition without compromising startup latency.
Is MAX1203BCAP compatible with standard SPI interfaces, and what settings are required?
Yes, the MAX1203BCAP is fully SPI-compatible and requires CPOL = 0 and CPHA = 0 configuration in the host controller. Data is sampled on the SCLK rising edge (DIN) and shifted out on the falling edge (DOUT), with CS active-low enabling. Its 4-wire interface (CS, SCLK, DIN, DOUT) needs no additional glue logic, and SSTRB provides optional hardware synchronization for time-critical DSP interfacing.
MAX1203BCAP Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 20-SSOP (0.209", 5.30mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Number of Bits:
- 12
- Sampling Rate (Per Second):
- 133k
- Number of Inputs:
- 4, 8
- Input Type:
- Differential, Single Ended
- Data Interface:
- SPI
- Configuration:
- MUX-S/H-ADC
- Ratio - S/H:ADC:
- 1:1
- Number of A/D Converters:
- 1
- Architecture:
- SAR
- Reference Type:
- External
- Voltage - Supply, Analog:
- ±5V, 5V
- Voltage - Supply, Digital:
- 2.7V ~ 5.25V
- Features:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- 0°C ~ 70°C
- Supplier Device Package:
- 20-SSOP
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
MAX1203BCAP FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX1203BCAP through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX1203BCAP on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MAX1203BCAP reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX1203BCAP are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX1203BCAP is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX1203BCAP?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX1203BCAP transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX1203BCAP?
MAX1203BCAP orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX1203BCAP order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MAX1203BCAP?
For technical support, including MAX1203BCAP datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX1203BCAP requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX1203BCAP is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX1203BCAP products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MAX1203BCAP meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX1203BCAP?
All MAX1203BCAP units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX1203BCAP, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MAX1203BCAP part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX1203BCAP:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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