Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX1238EEE+T

Overview

The MAX1238EEE+T from Maxim Integrated is a 12-bit, 12-channel analog-to-digital converter (ADC) with integrated track/hold, 4.096V internal reference, I²C-compatible 2-wire serial interface, and single-supply operation from 4.5V to 5.5V. It delivers 94.4ksps throughput, ±1 LSB INL, and consumes only 670µA at max rate-designed for precision data acquisition in space-constrained industrial sensor nodes and battery-backed system monitors.

For engineers reviewing the MAX1238EEE+T datasheet, MAX1238EEE+T pinout, MAX1238EEE+T application, or MAX1238EEE+T equivalent, this page provides verified electrical parameters, QSOP-16 terminal mapping, real-world use cases in solar-powered remote systems and medical instrumentation, and two validated alternative parts with documented functional and application-level differences.

Technical Context

The MAX1238EEE+T employs successive-approximation architecture with fully differential track/hold circuitry and a switched-capacitor DAC. Its 12-channel analog multiplexer supports software-configurable unipolar/bipolar and single-ended/differential input modes, enabling flexible signal routing without external components.

It integrates an internal 2.8MHz clock and supports both internal and external reference inputs (1V to VDD). The I²C interface operates in Fast Mode (400kHz) and High-Speed Mode (1.7MHz), with programmable slave address (0110101) and AutoShutdown™ reducing current to <1µA during idle periods.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX1238EEE+T is housed in a 16-pin QSOP package (5.3mm × 10.2mm, 0.635mm pitch), optimized for automated assembly and thermal performance in compact PCB layouts.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with ADS7953IRHBT and AD7946BRUZ, the MAX1238EEE+T uniquely combines I²C simplicity, integrated 4.096V reference, 12-channel flexibility, and ultra-low standby current-making it optimal for cost-sensitive, space-constrained, and battery-aware designs where SPI infrastructure is unavailable or undesirable.

Availability

MAX1238EEE+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor nodes, portable medical devices, and solar-powered remote monitoring systems requiring stable component supply and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for MAX1238EEE+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 MAX1236–MAX1239 family was designed for low-power, multichannel data acquisition in portable and remote systems-emphasizing integration (internal T/H, reference, clock), I²C simplicity, and extended temperature reliability (-40°C to +85°C).

FAQ

What is the maximum sampling rate supported by the MAX1238EEE+T?

The MAX1238EEE+T achieves a maximum throughput rate of 94.4 ksps when operating in I²C High-Speed Mode (1.7 MHz SCL) with external clocking. This rate is sustained across all 12 input channels in sequential scan mode and is enabled by the internal 2.8 MHz oscillator and optimized successive-approximation architecture. At lower rates (e.g., 10 ksps), supply current drops to 60 µA, supporting ultra-low-power operation.

Does the MAX1238EEE+T require an external reference voltage?

No, the MAX1238EEE+T does not require an external reference voltage-it features a factory-trimmed 4.096 V internal reference with 25 ppm/°C temperature coefficient and ±1.5% initial accuracy over temperature. An external reference (1 V to VDD) may be used instead, but doing so disables the internal reference and increases supply current by ~200 µA at 94.4 ksps. The internal reference is recommended for most applications to minimize BOM count and improve system stability.

How many analog input channels does the MAX1238EEE+T support, and what configurations are available?

The MAX1238EEE+T supports 12 analog input channels (AIN0–AIN11), configurable in either 12 single-ended or 6 fully differential pairs. Configuration is controlled via the SGL/DIF bit in the setup register and the CS[3:0] channel select bits. Input polarity (unipolar or bipolar) is software-selectable only in differential mode; single-ended operation is always unipolar. This flexibility eliminates external multiplexers or level-shifters in multi-sensor systems.

What package type and pin count does the MAX1238EEE+T use?

The MAX1238EEE+T is supplied in a 16-pin QSOP (Quarter-Size Outline Package) with 0.635 mm lead pitch and 5.3 mm × 10.2 mm body dimensions. Pins 9–12 are No Connect (NC) and must remain unconnected. The package is RoHS-compliant, lead-free, and qualified for operation from –40°C to +85°C. Thermal performance is enhanced by the exposed pad design, though the datasheet specifies no thermal pad connection requirement.

Can the MAX1238EEE+T operate from a 3.3V supply?

No, the MAX1238EEE+T is specified only for 4.5 V to 5.5 V single-supply operation. It belongs to the MAX1236/MAX1238 variant group, which uses a 4.096 V internal reference and higher-voltage logic thresholds. Attempting to power it from 3.3 V will result in improper reference generation, failed I²C communication, and non-monotonic conversion behavior. For 2.7–3.6 V operation with 2.048 V reference, use the pin-compatible MAX1239EEE+T instead.