Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX1204BCAP
- Part No.:
- MAX1204BCAP
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Analog to Digital Converters (ADC)
- Package:
- 20-SSOP (0.209", 5.30mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
MAX1204BCAP.pdf
- Description:
- IC ADC 10BIT SAR 20SSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:2,746
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Product details
Overview
MAX1204BCAP from Maxim Integrated is a 10-bit, 8-channel serial analog-to-digital converter (ADC) designed for mixed +5V analog / +3V digital supply systems. It integrates an on-chip track/hold, internal 4.096V reference, SPI/MICROWIRE/TMS320-compatible 4-wire serial interface, and supports unipolar/bipolar input modes. Its 133ksps sampling rate, 2µA power-down current, and VL pin for 2.7V–5.25V logic-level control make it suitable for battery-powered data acquisition in medical and industrial instrumentation.
For engineers reviewing the MAX1204BCAP datasheet, MAX1204BCAP pinout, MAX1204BCAP application, or MAX1204BCAP equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, real-world timing behavior, confirmed package mapping to 20-pin SSOP, validated differential/single-ended channel configuration, and precise supply-current trade-offs across internal/external clock modes.
Technical Context
The MAX1204BCAP employs successive-approximation architecture with integrated track/hold circuitry, acquiring input signals over 1.5µs before conversion. It accepts 8 single-ended or 4 pseudo-differential inputs, with common-mode range spanning VSS to VDD and ±0.5 LSB stability requirement on IN− during differential sampling.
Its serial interface operates in two distinct clock modes: external clock mode (SCLK drives conversion at up to 2MHz, 15 clocks/conversion) and internal clock mode (self-timed conversion, SSTRB asserts low for ≤10µs). The VL pin directly sets DOUT/SSTRB output swing (2.7V–5.25V), enabling direct interfacing with 3V microcontrollers without level shifters.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Resolution | 10-bit - delivers 1024 discrete output codes with no missing codes guaranteed over temperature (MAX1204B grade) |
| Sampling Rate | 133ksps - achieved using 15-clock external SCLK cycles at 2MHz, enabling real-time monitoring of sub-100kHz signals |
| INL / DNL | ±0.5 LSB / ±1.0 LSB - ensures monotonicity and <0.05% full-scale linearity error for precision sensor digitization |
| Reference | Internal 4.096V ±0.5% - provides stable scaling for unipolar 0–4.096V or bipolar ±2.048V full-scale ranges without external components |
| Supply Current | 1.5mA operating / 2µA full power-down - allows duty-cycled operation in portable instruments to extend battery life |
| Input Bandwidth | 4.5MHz small-signal - supports undersampling of RF transients while maintaining integrity up to Nyquist limit |
| Digital Interface | SPI/MICROWIRE/TMS320 4-wire - requires only CS, SCLK, DIN, DOUT; no glue logic needed for TI C2000 or ARM Cortex-M3 integration |
Pinout & Package
MAX1204BCAP is housed in a 20-pin SSOP (Shrink Small Outline Package) with 0.65mm lead pitch, RoHS-compliant and rated for 0°C to +70°C operation.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CH0–CH7 (Pins 1–8) | Analog Input Channels | Selectable as 8 single-ended inputs (vs. GND) or 4 pseudo-differential pairs; IN− must remain stable within ±0.5 LSB during conversion |
| VSS (Pin 9) | Negative Supply Rail | Accepts 0V (unipolar) or –5V ±5% (bipolar); defines lower bound of analog input common-mode range |
| SHDN (Pin 10) | Three-Level Control Input | Low = 10µA shutdown; float = external REFADJ compensation; VDD = internal REF compensation |
| REF (Pin 11) | Reference Buffer Output / ADC Reference Input | Delivers 4.096V (internal mode) or accepts external reference; buffer gain = 1.68× REFADJ voltage |
| DOUT (Pin 15) | Serial Data Output | MSB-first, clocked on SCLK falling edge; high-impedance when CS = high; logic levels set by VL voltage |
| VL (Pin 14) | Digital Output Supply | Sets DOUT/SSTRB VOH/VOL thresholds (2.7V–5.25V); enables native 3V logic interfacing without level translators |
| GND (Pin 13) | Analog/Digital Ground | Common return for analog inputs (IN− in single-ended mode) and digital logic; requires star grounding for <70dB SNR |
| REFADJ (Pin 12) | Reference Buffer Adjustment Input | Tie to GND for internal 4.096V ref; tie to VDD to disable buffer for external reference use |
| VDD (Pin 20) | Positive Analog Supply | +5V ±5%; powers analog core, multiplexer, and reference buffer; independent of digital logic supply VL |
| SCLK (Pin 19) | Serial Clock Input | Drives data transfer and (in external mode) conversion timing; 40–60% duty cycle required; max 2MHz frequency |
| CS (Pin 18) | Active-Low Chip Select | Enables serial interface; DOUT/SSTRB enter high-Z state when CS = high; required before each control byte |
| DIN (Pin 17) | Serial Data Input | Accepts 8-bit control word on SCLK rising edge; START bit (MSB) initiates conversion sequence |
| SSTRB (Pin 16) | Serial Strobe Output | Signals conversion start/end: low during conversion (internal mode) or pulses high pre-MSB (external mode) |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Software-configurable input mode | Single-ended (8 channels) or pseudo-differential (4 pairs) selected via 3-bit channel control and SGL/DIF bit - eliminates external mux hardware |
| User-adjustable digital output levels | VL pin accepts 2.7V–5.25V to set DOUT/SSTRB VOH/VOL - enables direct connection to 3V µPs without level-shifting circuitry |
| Two power-down modes | Fast power-down (30µA) and full power-down (2µA) controlled by PD1/PD0 bits - supports adaptive current optimization between conversions |
| Internal reference with trim capability | 4.096V ±0.5% reference with REFADJ pin allowing ±1.5% adjustment range - simplifies gain calibration in production test |
| Flexible clock architecture | Supports both internal clock (self-timed, ≤10µs SSTRB low time) and external clock (SCLK-driven, 15-cycle timing) - decouples µP clock constraints from ADC timing |
Applications
| Portable ECG Monitor | Industrial PLC Analog Input Module |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Continuous 8-lead biopotential signal acquisition from dry electrodes with 3.3V ARM-based controller and Li-ion battery supply. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: 10-bit ADC digitizing amplified ECG waveforms at 133ksps; VL = 3.3V enables direct SPI link to µP; internal reference ensures consistent amplitude scaling across units. Use Value: 2µA shutdown current extends battery runtime >72 hours; 4.5MHz input bandwidth captures QRS complex fidelity without aliasing. |
Use Scenario: 8-channel 4–20mA current loop receiver in DIN-rail mounted controller with isolated 5V analog and 3.3V digital domains. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Simultaneous sampling of multiple process sensors (pressure, temp, flow); SHDN pin controlled by watchdog timer to reduce idle power; REFADJ used for field calibration. Use Value: ±0.5 LSB INL ensures <0.05% measurement accuracy over 0–70°C; SSOP package fits high-density I/O PCB layouts. |
| Battery-Powered Oscilloscope Probe | Automotive Cabin Air Quality Sensor Hub |
Use Scenario: Handheld scope accessory digitizing ±5V analog signals using ±5V dual supplies and 3.3V FPGA interface. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bipolar 10-bit ADC with VSS = –5V; internal clock mode frees FPGA from strict timing; SSTRB signals conversion completion for DMA trigger. Use Value: 133ksps sampling captures 50kHz harmonics; 70dB SINAD meets Class B EMC immunity requirements. |
Use Scenario: Multi-sensor node (CO₂, VOC, humidity) in 12V automotive system with LDO-regulated 5V analog and 3.3V digital rails. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Central ADC aggregating 8 analog sensor outputs; VL = 3.3V matches MCU I/O; software-selectable unipolar mode matches sensor output ranges. Use Value: 1.5mA operating current minimizes thermal drift in sealed enclosure; 800kHz full-power bandwidth resolves rapid CO₂ concentration changes. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 10-bit serial ADC applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX1202BCAP+ | 12-bit resolution, same pinout and serial interface; higher 1.8mW power consumption in active mode | Required where >10-bit ENOB needed for vibration analysis or audio pre-processing | Drop-in upgrade path when resolution is prioritized over power; shares identical layout and firmware register map |
| ADS7822U | 12-bit, SPI-only interface (no MICROWIRE/TMS320 support); 2.7V–5.25V supply; no internal reference | Suitable for cost-sensitive 3.3V-only systems requiring external reference flexibility | Preferred when external precision reference (e.g., REF5040) is already present; lacks SHDN and VL pin functionality |
Compared with MAX1204BCAP, MAX1202BCAP+ offers 2-bit higher resolution at the cost of +0.3mA supply current and no VL pin adjustability, while ADS7822U trades internal reference and multi-protocol support for lower BOM count in 3.3V-centric designs.
Availability
MAX1204BCAP is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for medical instrumentation, industrial process control, and battery-powered test equipment requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and RoHS-compliant packaging.
Supply support for MAX1204BCAP 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 MAX1204BCAP belongs to Maxim's precision data-acquisition product line, engineered for mixed-voltage systems where 3V digital logic must interface reliably with 5V analog signal chains without level-shifting overhead.
FAQ
What is the guaranteed performance grade of MAX1204BCAP?
The 'B' grade in MAX1204BCAP specifies guaranteed no missing codes over the full 0°C to +70°C temperature range, ±0.5 LSB integral nonlinearity (INL), and ±1.0 LSB differential nonlinearity (DNL). This grade is validated per Maxim's production test flow and documented in the Electrical Characteristics table for MAX1204B devices. MAX1204BCAP maintains these specifications in its 20-pin SSOP package.
How does the VL pin affect MAX1204BCAP digital output behavior?
The VL pin on MAX1204BCAP directly sets the high/low voltage thresholds for DOUT and SSTRB outputs: VOH ≥ VL – 0.5V and VOL ≤ 0.4V (at ISINK = 3mA). When VL = 3.3V, outputs are compatible with 3.3V CMOS logic; at VL = 5V, they drive standard 5V TTL. This eliminates external level shifters. MAX1204BCAP requires VL to be stable during conversion to avoid output metastability.
Can MAX1204BCAP operate with a single +5V supply and still interface with a 3.3V microcontroller?
Yes. MAX1204BCAP supports single +5V analog supply (VDD = 5V, VSS = 0V) while interfacing with 3.3V µPs via its VL pin: set VL = 3.3V to configure DOUT/SSTRB VOH/VOL for 3.3V logic levels. Digital inputs (CS, SCLK, DIN) tolerate 0–5.3V, so 3.3V µP outputs drive them directly. MAX1204BCAP thus enables mixed-supply design without level translation.
What is the minimum acquisition time required before starting conversion on MAX1204BCAP?
The MAX1204BCAP requires a minimum acquisition time (tACQ) of 1.5µs, defined as the interval after the 8th control-bit clock edge during which the internal track/hold capacitor charges to the input signal. This value is fixed in the datasheet and applies regardless of source impedance. For optimal performance, ensure tACQ ≥ 1.5µs in all configurations; shorter intervals cause gain/offset errors. MAX1204BCAP's timing diagram confirms this constraint in both internal and external clock modes.
Does MAX1204BCAP support true differential input mode?
MAX1204BCAP implements pseudo-differential input mode: it samples only the IN+ channel (e.g., CH0), while IN− (e.g., CH1) serves as a stable reference that must remain within ±0.5 LSB of GND during conversion. It does not perform simultaneous sampling of both inputs like a true differential ADC. This architecture reduces pin count but requires careful IN− routing and local bypassing (0.1µF to GND). MAX1204BCAP's Pin Description section explicitly defines this behavior for CH0/CH1, CH2/CH3, etc. pairs.
MAX1204BCAP 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:
- 10
- 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, Internal
- Voltage - Supply, Analog:
- ±5V, 5V
- Voltage - Supply, Digital:
- ±5V, 5V
- Features:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- 0°C ~ 70°C
- Supplier Device Package:
- 20-SSOP
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
MAX1204BCAP FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX1204BCAP through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX1204BCAP 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 MAX1204BCAP reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX1204BCAP are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX1204BCAP is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX1204BCAP?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX1204BCAP transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX1204BCAP?
MAX1204BCAP orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX1204BCAP 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 MAX1204BCAP?
For technical support, including MAX1204BCAP datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX1204BCAP requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX1204BCAP is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX1204BCAP 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 MAX1204BCAP meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX1204BCAP?
All MAX1204BCAP units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX1204BCAP, 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 MAX1204BCAP part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX1204BCAP:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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