Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX120EAG+

Overview

MAX120EAG+ from Maxim Integrated is a 12-bit, 500ksps BiCMOS sampling analog-to-digital converter with integrated track/hold and -5V buried-zener reference. It features 1.6µs conversion time, ±5V bipolar input range (overvoltage tolerant to ±15V), and TTL/CMOS-compatible parallel interface - used in high-speed data acquisition systems requiring precision timing and low system component count.

For engineers reviewing the MAX120EAG+ datasheet, MAX120EAG+ pinout, MAX120EAG+ application, or MAX120EAG+ equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, mode-specific timing behavior, real-world FIFO interfacing guidance, and validated alternative part comparisons - all grounded in Maxim's official 19-0030 Rev 1 documentation.

Technical Context

The MAX120EAG+ implements successive approximation architecture with on-chip track/hold, achieving 350ns acquisition time and fixed 13–14 clock-cycle conversion latency. Its internal -5V reference exhibits ±25ppm/°C drift over -40°C to +85°C, and supports external overdrive between -5.05V and -5.10V with ≥5mA sink capability.

It operates across five configurable interface modes (full-control, stand-alone, slow-memory, ROM, continuous-conversion), each governed by MODE, CONVST, RD, and CS logic states. The INT/BUSY output behavior (interrupt vs. busy) is determined solely by MODE pin voltage level - VDD for INT, open/DGND for BUSY - with no internal configuration register.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX120EAG+ is housed in a 24-pin SSOP (Shrink Small Outline Package) with 0.635mm pitch, RoHS-compliant and lead(Pb)-free.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 12-bit, high-speed ADC applications.

Compared with MAX120EAG+, MAX122EWG+ trades 167ksps throughput for marginally better dynamic performance at lower clock rates, while ADS8320UB abandons parallel bus and internal reference to gain 4 extra bits - making it incompatible for drop-in replacement but viable for redesigns prioritizing resolution over speed.

Availability

MAX120EAG+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-speed data acquisition, digital signal processing, and spectrum analysis applications requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges.

Supply support for MAX120EAG+ 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 MAX120/MAX122 product line delivers complete, low-component-count ADC solutions for systems needing integrated track/hold, reference, and µP-compatible parallel interface - targeting real-time signal capture in space- and power-constrained environments.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for MAX120EAG+?

The MAX120EAG+ is rated for -40°C to +85°C (industrial grade), as confirmed in the Ordering Information table under "MAX120ENG+" and "MAX120EWG+" variants. This range applies specifically to the E-grade version denoted by the 'E' in MAX120EAG+, and is validated across all electrical specifications including INL (±1 LSB), SINAD (70dB min), and reference drift (±25ppm/°C).

Does MAX120EAG+ require external components for basic operation?

Yes - MAX120EAG+ requires only decoupling capacitors: 0.1µF ceramic + 10µF electrolytic on VDD–DGND, and 0.1µF ceramic + 22µF electrolytic on VREF–AGND. No external hold capacitor, reference, or level-shifters are needed due to its integrated track/hold and -5V zener reference - per General Description and Pin Description sections.

Can MAX120EAG+ interface directly with a FIFO buffer without a microprocessor?

Yes - MAX120EAG+ supports stand-alone (Mode 2) and continuous-conversion (Mode 5) operation, where CONVST triggers conversions and INT/BUSY controls FIFO write enable. Figure 8 and Figure 11 confirm direct connection to IDT7200 FIFOs at 428ksps, eliminating µP interrupt overhead - a core design feature highlighted in Applications and Operating Modes sections.

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by MAX120EAG+?

MAX120EAG+ accepts clocks from 0.1MHz to 8MHz in Modes 1–4, and up to 6MHz in Mode 5 (continuous-conversion) to satisfy the 350ns acquisition time within 2 clock cycles. This is explicitly stated in Electrical Characteristics (fCLK row) and Operating Modes (Mode 5 section), with timing diagrams validating 8MHz operation in full-control mode.

How does the MODE pin affect MAX120EAG+ functionality?

The MODE pin configures the INT/BUSY output: tied to VDD → generates an interrupt pulse on conversion completion; left open or tied to DGND → functions as a busy signal (low during conversion). This behavior is hardwired logic - no internal register - and directly impacts µP polling strategy and timing-critical interrupt service routines, as detailed in Pin Description and Operating Modes sections.