Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX1238EEE+
- Part No.:
- MAX1238EEE+
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Analog to Digital Converters (ADC)
- Package:
- 16-SSOP (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
MAX1238EEE+.pdf
- Description:
- IC ADC 12BIT SAR 16QSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:412
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Product details
Overview
The MAX1238EEE+ from Maxim Integrated is a 12-bit, 12-channel analog-to-digital converter (ADC) with I²C-compatible 2-wire serial interface, internal 4.096V reference, and single-supply operation from 4.5V to 5.5V. It delivers 94.4ksps throughput, ±1 LSB INL/DNL accuracy, and ultra-low 670µA supply current at full rate-enabling high-resolution sensing in space-constrained industrial monitoring and battery-backed data loggers.
For engineers reviewing the MAX1238EEE+ datasheet, MAX1238EEE+ pinout, MAX1238EEE+ application, or MAX1238EEE+ equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, validated pin functions, confirmed operating conditions across –40°C to +85°C, and real-world selection guidance for multichannel precision ADC replacement or upgrade paths.
Technical Context
The MAX1238EEE+ employs successive-approximation architecture with fully differential track/hold circuitry and software-configurable unipolar/bipolar, single-ended/differential input modes. Its internal 4.096V reference sets full-scale range, while external reference support (1V to VDD) enables system-level scaling flexibility.
It operates exclusively in I²C Fast Mode (400kHz) or High-Speed Mode (1.7MHz), with auto-shutdown reducing current to <1µA between conversions. Channel-scan mode with internal FIFO supports sequential acquisition across all 12 analog inputs without host intervention.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Resolution | 12-bit - delivers 4096 discrete output codes for precise analog signal digitization |
| Input Channels | 12 single-ended or 6 fully differential - supports scalable sensor arrays without external mux |
| Supply Voltage | 4.5V to 5.5V - compatible with standard 5V logic rails and industrial power domains |
| Internal Reference | 4.096V ±2% - enables ratiometric measurement stability and eliminates external reference component |
| INL / DNL | ±1 LSB - ensures monotonicity and end-point linearity critical for closed-loop control feedback |
| Throughput Rate | 94.4 ksps - supports real-time capture of transient events up to ~3 MHz bandwidth (full-linear) |
| Supply Current | 670 µA at 94.4 ksps; 6 µA in shutdown - enables low-power operation in energy-sensitive applications |
Pinout & Package
The MAX1238EEE+ is housed in a 16-pin QSOP package (5.3mm × 10.2mm, 0.65mm pitch), optimized for high-density PCB layouts and thermal performance in industrial environments.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1–3, 4–8, 14–16 | AIN0–AIN10 | Analog input channels - configurable as single-ended or differential pairs; absolute voltage range: GND to VDD |
| 4, 13 | AIN3/REF, AIN11/REF | Shared analog input/reference terminal - selectable via setup register for internal reference output or external reference input |
| 5, 9 | SCL | I²C clock input - controls timing of serial data transfer; supports Fast Mode (400kHz) and High-Speed Mode (1.7MHz) |
| 6, 10 | SDA | I²C bidirectional data line - transmits conversion results and receives configuration bytes |
| 7, 11 | GND | Analog and digital ground reference - must be connected to low-impedance system ground plane |
| 8, 12 | VDD | Positive supply - requires local 0.1µF ceramic bypass capacitor to minimize noise coupling into ADC core |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Software-configurable input mode | Single-ended (12 ch) or fully differential (6 ch) - eliminates need for external signal conditioning hardware |
| Internal FIFO with channel-scan mode | Automates sequential conversion across all 12 inputs - reduces host CPU overhead and simplifies firmware |
| AutoShutdown™ | Reduces supply current to <1µA between conversions - extends battery life in portable instrumentation |
| High-speed I²C interface | Up to 1.7MHz clock rate - enables rapid data streaming without requiring dedicated SPI peripherals |
| Low source impedance tolerance | Accurate sampling with ≤1.5kΩ source impedance - avoids mandatory op-amp buffering in many sensor interfaces |
Applications
| Industrial Process Monitoring | Medical Patient Vital Sign Acquisition |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Continuous logging of temperature, pressure, and flow sensor outputs in PLC-based control cabinets. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary multichannel ADC interfacing directly to 12 analog sensors via single 5V rail and I²C bus. Use Value: 12-channel integration reduces board area and BOM count versus discrete 4-channel alternatives; ±1 LSB linearity ensures calibration stability over temperature. |
Use Scenario: Portable ECG and SpO₂ monitor acquiring synchronized biopotential signals from multiple electrodes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-noise, low-power ADC capturing differential lead signals with programmable gain and bipolar input range. Use Value: 4.096V internal reference enables consistent 12-bit resolution across battery discharge cycle; 670µA max current extends runtime in coin-cell-powered devices. |
| Battery-Powered Test Equipment | Solar-Powered Remote Environmental Sensors |
|
Use Scenario: Handheld multimeter or data logger measuring voltage, current, and resistance with autoranging capability. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Core ADC providing calibrated measurements across multiple input ranges using internal reference and software-configurable gain. Use Value: AutoShutdown™ cuts quiescent current to sub-µA during idle periods; 16-pin QSOP allows compact, shielded layout minimizing EMI susceptibility. |
Use Scenario: Unattended field node measuring soil moisture, ambient light, and air quality using solar harvesting and supercapacitor storage. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Energy-efficient ADC performing scheduled burst-mode sampling to conserve harvested power. Use Value: 6µA at 1ksps and <1µA shutdown current enable multi-year deployment; wide –40°C to +85°C rating ensures reliability in outdoor enclosures. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar multichannel, I²C-interfaced ADC applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADS7822U | 12-bit, 4-channel, SPI interface, 3.3V-only supply (2.7–3.6V), no internal reference | Requires external reference and level-shifting for 5V systems; lower channel count demands external multiplexing | Select when SPI interface is preferred and system already uses 3.3V domain with reference infrastructure |
| MAX11612EEE+ | 12-bit, 12-channel, I²C interface, 2.7–3.6V supply, 2.048V internal reference | Lower supply voltage range incompatible with 5V systems; different reference voltage affects full-scale scaling | Choose for 3.3V battery-powered designs where 2.048V reference aligns with existing signal chain |
Compared with ADS7822U and MAX11612EEE+, the MAX1238EEE+ uniquely combines 5V operation, 12-channel count, I²C compatibility, and integrated 4.096V reference-making it optimal for industrial 5V sensor hubs where pin count, power, and reference simplicity are co-constrained.
Availability
The MAX1238EEE+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial process monitoring, medical vital sign acquisition, and battery-powered test equipment requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.
Supply support for MAX1238EEE+ 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 MAX1236–MAX1239 family was designed for low-power, multichannel data acquisition in space- and energy-constrained systems-emphasizing integration of reference, T/H, clock, and I²C interface in minimal footprint packages.
FAQ
What is the operating temperature range for the MAX1238EEE+?
The MAX1238EEE+ is specified for continuous operation from –40°C to +85°C. This extended industrial temperature range is guaranteed per datasheet testing and applies to all electrical parameters including INL, DNL, throughput, and supply current across the full voltage and reference configuration scope.
Does the MAX1238EEE+ require an external crystal or clock source?
No, the MAX1238EEE+ includes an internal oscillator and does not require an external crystal. It supports both internal clock mode (2.8MHz typical) and external clock mode via the SCL line, enabling flexible timing control without additional components.
Can the MAX1238EEE+ operate with an external reference voltage?
Yes, the MAX1238EEE+ accepts an external reference voltage from 1V to VDD applied at the AIN3/REF or AIN11/REF pins. When using external reference, the internal 4.096V reference is disabled, and full-scale range becomes proportional to the applied VREF value.
What is the maximum sampling rate achievable with the MAX1238EEE+?
The MAX1238EEE+ achieves a maximum throughput rate of 94.4 ksps when configured in I²C High-Speed Mode (1.7MHz SCL) with external clocking. In Fast Mode (400kHz), the maximum rate drops to 22.2 ksps due to bus timing constraints.
How many analog input channels does the MAX1238EEE+ support in differential mode?
The MAX1238EEE+ supports six fully differential input channels (e.g., AIN0–AIN1, AIN2–AIN3, etc.) when configured in differential mode via the SGL/DIF bit in the configuration byte. Each pair shares common-mode rejection and enables precise measurement of small signals amid noise.
MAX1238EEE+ Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 16-SSOP (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Number of Bits:
- 12
- Sampling Rate (Per Second):
- 94.4k
- Number of Inputs:
- 6, 12
- Input Type:
- Differential, Single Ended
- Data Interface:
- I2C
- Configuration:
- 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
- Voltage - Supply, Digital:
- 5V
- Features:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Supplier Device Package:
- 16-QSOP
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
MAX1238EEE+ FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX1238EEE+ through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX1238EEE+ 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 MAX1238EEE+ reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX1238EEE+ are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX1238EEE+ is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX1238EEE+?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX1238EEE+ transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX1238EEE+?
MAX1238EEE+ orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX1238EEE+ 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 MAX1238EEE+?
For technical support, including MAX1238EEE+ datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX1238EEE+ requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX1238EEE+ is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX1238EEE+ 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 MAX1238EEE+ meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX1238EEE+?
All MAX1238EEE+ units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX1238EEE+, 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 MAX1238EEE+ part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX1238EEE+:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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