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

- Shipping:

Inventory:1,358
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Product details
Overview
MAX1203BCAP+T 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 integral nonlinearity, and operates from +5V analog supply with VL-adjustable 2.7V–5.25V digital output logic - enabling direct interfacing with 3V microcontrollers in battery-powered medical instruments.
For engineers reviewing the MAX1203BCAP+T datasheet, MAX1203BCAP+T pinout, MAX1203BCAP+T application, or MAX1203BCAP+T equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, SSOP-20 pin mapping, real-world use cases in process control and portable diagnostics, and two validated alternative ADCs with documented functional trade-offs.
Technical Context
The MAX1203BCAP+T employs successive-approximation architecture with integrated track/hold, supporting both internal clock (1.7MHz) and external clock (up to 2MHz) operation. Its 4-wire SPI/MICROWIRE-compatible serial interface enables direct connection to TMS320-family DSPs via SSTRB strobe output and supports unipolar/bipolar mode selection via software-configurable control byte.
It requires an external 4.096V reference applied to REF pin and uses REFADJ to disable the internal reference buffer. The VL pin independently sets digital output voltage levels (2.7V–5.25V), decoupling logic interface requirements from analog supply constraints - critical for low-noise mixed-voltage data acquisition.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Resolution | 12-bit - delivers 1 LSB = 0.024% of full-scale range for high-precision sensor digitization |
| Sampling Rate | 133ksps - supports real-time monitoring of fast transients in industrial control loops |
| INL (Max) | ±1 LSB - ensures monotonicity and <0.025% end-point linearity error across temperature |
| Analog Supply | +5V ±5% - compatible with standard analog rail without isolated regulators |
| Digital Logic Supply (VL) | 2.7V to 5.25V - allows seamless interfacing with 3V, 3.3V, or 5V microcontrollers |
| Power Consumption | 1.5mA operating / 2μA full power-down - enables ultra-low-duty-cycle battery operation |
| Input Configuration | 8-channel single-ended or 4-channel pseudo-differential - simplifies multi-sensor front-end design |
Pinout & Package
MAX1203BCAP+T is housed in a 20-pin SSOP package (5.3mm × 7.2mm, 0.65mm pitch), RoHS-compliant and lead-free (+ suffix). Pin functions are validated per Maxim's official datasheet Rev 3 (19-1173).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CH0–CH7 (Pins 1–8) | Analog Input Channels | Selectable as single-ended inputs or differential pairs (CH0/CH1, CH2/CH3, etc.) for multi-sensor acquisition |
| VSS (Pin 9) | Negative Analog Supply | Accepts 0V (single-supply) or –5V ±5% (bipolar mode); defines input common-mode range |
| SHDN (Pin 10) | Three-Level Shutdown Control | Pull low for 10μA shutdown; leave floating for external REF compensation; tie to VDD for internal compensation |
| REF (Pin 11) | Reference Input/Output | Receives external 4.096V reference; internal buffer disabled when REFADJ = VDD |
| REFADJ (Pin 12) | Reference Buffer Control | Tie to VDD to disable internal reference amplifier - mandatory for MAX1203 operation |
| GND (Pin 13) | Analog Ground / IN– Reference | Serves as return path for single-ended conversions and system ground reference |
| VL (Pin 14) | Digital Output Supply | Sets DOUT/SSTRB logic high level (2.7V–5.25V); isolates digital interface from analog supply noise |
| DOUT (Pin 15) | Serial Data Output | MSB-first, SCLK-falling-edge synchronized output; high-impedance when CS = high |
| SSTRB (Pin 16) | Serial Strobe Output | Pulses high before MSB in external clock mode; signals conversion start/end for TMS320 synchronization |
| DIN (Pin 17) | Serial Data Input | Accepts 8-bit control byte (channel, mode, power-down) on SCLK rising edge |
| CS (Pin 18) | Chip Select | Active-low enable; disables DOUT/SSTRB and places device in standby when high |
| SCLK (Pin 19) | Serial Clock Input | Drives data transfer and (in external mode) controls conversion timing at up to 2MHz |
| VDD (Pin 20) | Positive Analog Supply | +5V ±5% main analog rail; powers internal track/hold, SAR core, and reference buffer |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Software-Configurable Input Mode | Single-ended (8 ch) or pseudo-differential (4 ch) via 8-bit control byte - eliminates external multiplexer hardware |
| Flexible Digital Interface | VL-adjustable outputs (2.7V–5.25V) + SPI/MICROWIRE/TMS320 compatibility - no level-shifting required for 3V µPs |
| Low-Power Operation | 1.5mA active current and 2μA full power-down - extends battery life in portable diagnostic equipment |
| High-Accuracy Reference Path | External 4.096V reference with ±3 LSB gain error and ±0.8 ppm/°C tempco - supports stable calibration over temperature |
| Robust Input Protection | Analog inputs tolerate (VSS − 0.3V) to (VDD + 0.3V); clamped by internal diodes - reduces need for external protection circuitry |
Applications
| Battery-Powered Medical Instruments | Industrial Process Monitoring |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Portable ECG or blood glucose meter acquiring analog sensor signals under tight power budgets. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary 12-bit ADC digitizing conditioned biopotential signals with 133ksps throughput and 2μA shutdown between readings. Use Value: VL pin enables direct 3V MCU interface; low 1.5mA operating current extends battery life; ±1 LSB INL ensures clinical-grade measurement fidelity. |
Use Scenario: PLC analog input module measuring temperature, pressure, and flow in factory automation systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-accuracy front-end ADC handling 8 sensor channels with bipolar input support for 4–20mA loop interfaces. Use Value: ±5V dual-supply operation accommodates industrial signal ranges; channel-to-channel offset matching ≤0.1 LSB improves multi-channel consistency. |
| 5V/3V Mixed-Supply Data Acquisition | High-Accuracy Test & Measurement Equipment |
Use Scenario: Benchtop DAQ system integrating legacy 5V analog sensors with modern 3.3V FPGA controllers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bridge ADC providing galvanically isolated signal conditioning and level-adapted serial interface. Use Value: Independent VL supply decouples digital I/O from analog rails; SPI compatibility simplifies FPGA integration; 4.5MHz small-signal bandwidth captures transient events. |
Use Scenario: Calibration-grade multimeter or oscilloscope auxiliary channel requiring traceable linearity. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Precision digitizer with ±1 LSB INL and 70dB SINAD delivering metrology-grade accuracy at 133ksps. Use Value: External 4.096V reference path enables NIST-traceable calibration; THD = –80dB minimizes harmonic distortion in spectral analysis. |
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, SPI-only interface, no SSTRB output, fixed 3V digital supply | Lacks TMS320 strobe sync and VL flexibility; requires external level shifters for 5V systems | Choose for higher speed where strobe timing and mixed-voltage logic are not required |
| MAX11131ETE+ | 12-bit, 500ksps, internal reference, 10-pin μMAX, no external REFADJ control | Integrated reference simplifies BOM but removes precision external reference option | Prefer when board space is constrained and ±3 LSB gain error is acceptable |
Compared with ADS7822U and MAX11131ETE+, the MAX1203BCAP+T uniquely combines TMS320-compatible SSTRB strobe, VL-adjustable logic levels, and external 4.096V reference support - making it optimal for low-power, mixed-voltage, and metrology-critical designs where interface flexibility and reference control are essential.
Availability
MAX1203BCAP+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered medical instruments, industrial process monitoring, and 5V/3V mixed-supply data acquisition requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for MAX1203BCAP+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) is a semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, medical, and communications applications.
The MAX1202/MAX1203 product line was engineered for precision, low-power, mixed-voltage data acquisition - targeting portable instrumentation and embedded systems where 12-bit resolution, 3V digital compatibility, and flexible reference architecture are critical.
FAQ
What is the reference voltage requirement for MAX1203BCAP+T?
The MAX1203BCAP+T requires an external 4.096V reference applied to the REF pin. Unlike the MAX1202, it has no internal reference. The REFADJ pin must be tied to VDD to disable the internal reference buffer - confirmed in the datasheet's "External Reference at REF" section and Pin Description table. This ensures accurate 12-bit conversion with ±3 LSB gain error.
Does MAX1203BCAP+T support differential input mode?
Yes, MAX1203BCAP+T supports pseudo-differential input mode using four channel pairs: CH0/CH1, CH2/CH3, CH4/CH5, and CH6/CH7. The SGL/DIF bit in the 8-bit control byte selects this mode. During conversion, only the positive input (IN+) is sampled, while IN– must remain stable within ±0.1 LSB - verified in the "Detailed Description" and Table 4 of the datasheet.
What is the function of the VL pin on MAX1203BCAP+T?
The VL pin on MAX1203BCAP+T supplies power to the digital output drivers (DOUT and SSTRB), setting their logic-high voltage level between 2.7V and 5.25V. This allows direct interfacing with 3V, 3.3V, or 5V microcontrollers without level shifters - a key feature confirmed in the "Features" list and Electrical Characteristics table under "Digital Outputs".
How does the SHDN pin operate on MAX1203BCAP+T?
The SHDN pin on MAX1203BCAP+T provides three-level control: pulled low → full shutdown (≤10μA); left floating → external REF compensation mode; tied to VDD → internal REF compensation mode. This behavior is explicitly defined in the Pin Description table and Figure 10 timing diagrams - enabling flexible power management without external logic.
Is MAX1203BCAP+T compatible with SPI microcontrollers?
Yes, MAX1203BCAP+T is fully SPI-compatible with CPOL = 0 and CPHA = 0 configuration. It accepts an 8-bit control byte on DIN (SCLK rising edge) and outputs 12-bit results on DOUT (SCLK falling edge) in MSB-first format. The datasheet confirms SPI/MICROWIRE/TMS320 compatibility in the General Description and "How to Start a Conversion" section.
MAX1203BCAP+T Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 20-SSOP (0.209", 5.30mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- 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+T FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX1203BCAP+T through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX1203BCAP+T 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+T reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX1203BCAP+T are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX1203BCAP+T is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX1203BCAP+T?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX1203BCAP+T transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX1203BCAP+T?
MAX1203BCAP+T orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX1203BCAP+T 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+T?
For technical support, including MAX1203BCAP+T datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX1203BCAP+T requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX1203BCAP+T is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX1203BCAP+T 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+T meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX1203BCAP+T?
All MAX1203BCAP+T units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX1203BCAP+T, 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+T part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX1203BCAP+T:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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