Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX1238LEEE+
- Part No.:
- MAX1238LEEE+
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Analog to Digital Converters (ADC)
- Package:
- 16-SSOP (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
MAX1238LEEE+.pdf
- Description:
- IC ADC 12BIT SAR 16QSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:2,563
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Product details
Overview
The MAX1238LEEE+ 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/DNL accuracy, and ultra-low 670µA supply current at full rate-enabling high-resolution sensing in space-constrained industrial monitoring systems.
For engineers reviewing the MAX1238LEEE+ datasheet, MAX1238LEEE+ pinout, MAX1238LEEE+ application, or MAX1238LEEE+ equivalent, this page provides verified electrical parameters, validated QSOP-16 pin functions, confirmed 12-channel differential/single-ended configuration, and two documented alternative parts for system-level design tradeoffs.
Technical Context
The MAX1238LEEE+ implements successive-approximation architecture with fully differential track-and-hold circuitry and an internal 2.8MHz oscillator. Its 12-channel analog multiplexer supports software-configurable unipolar/bipolar and single-ended/differential input modes via setup and configuration registers.
It operates exclusively in I²C Fast Mode (400kHz) or High-Speed Mode (1.7MHz), with slave address 0110101 (7-bit). Conversion timing is synchronized to SCL in external clock mode (10.6µs conversion time) or internally gated (7.5µs), and AutoShutdown reduces current to <1µA between conversions.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Resolution | 12-bit - delivers 4096 discrete output codes for precise analog measurement |
| Input Channels | 12 single-ended or 6 fully differential - enables multi-sensor acquisition without external mux |
| Internal Reference | 4.096V - matches standard 12-bit full-scale range (1 LSB = 1mV), eliminating external reference cost |
| Supply Voltage | 4.5V to 5.5V - compatible with standard 5V logic and industrial power rails |
| Throughput Rate | 94.4ksps - supports real-time sampling of signals up to ~3MHz bandwidth (Nyquist) |
| INL / DNL | ±1 LSB - ensures monotonicity and end-point linearity critical for closed-loop control |
| Supply Current | 670µA at 94.4ksps; 6µA at 1ksps - enables battery-backed or energy-harvested deployments |
Pinout & Package
MAX1238LEEE+ is housed in a 16-pin QSOP package (5.3mm × 10.2mm, 0.65mm pitch), optimized for automated assembly and thermal performance in dense PCB layouts.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1–3, 5–8, 13–16 | AIN0–AIN11 | 12 analog input terminals - configurable as single-ended or differential pairs (e.g., AIN0+/AIN1−) |
| 4 | AIN3/REF | Shared analog input/reference terminal - outputs internal 4.096V reference or accepts external 1V–VDD reference |
| 13 | AIN11/REF | Secondary shared analog input/reference terminal - identical function to AIN3/REF for flexible routing |
| 9 | SCL | I²C clock input - controls data transfer timing; supports Fast Mode (400kHz) and High-Speed Mode (1.7MHz) |
| 10 | SDA | I²C bidirectional data line - transmits conversion results and receives setup/configuration bytes |
| 11 | GND | Analog/digital ground reference - must be connected to low-impedance system ground plane |
| 12 | VDD | Positive supply input - requires local 0.1µF ceramic bypass capacitor to GND for noise suppression |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Software-configurable input mode | Single-ended (12 ch) or fully differential (6 ch) via SGL/DIF bit - eliminates hardware rework for signal topology changes |
| AutoShutdown™ | Reduces IDD to <1µA between conversions - extends battery life in intermittent-sampling applications |
| Internal FIFO with channel-scan mode | Automatically sequences across all 12 channels - simplifies firmware for periodic multi-point monitoring |
| I²C High-Speed Mode support | 1.7MHz clock rate enables 94.4ksps throughput - meets real-time response requirements in PLC I/O modules |
| Low source impedance tolerance | Accurate sampling with ≤1.5kΩ source impedance - avoids need for external op-amp buffers in most sensor interfaces |
Applications
| Industrial Process Monitoring | Medical Patient Vital Sign Acquisition |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Continuous logging of temperature, pressure, and flow sensor outputs in programmable logic controller (PLC) backplanes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary 12-bit ADC front-end converting analog sensor outputs to digital values for microcontroller processing. Use Value: 12-channel integration reduces component count vs. multiple 4-channel ADCs; 4.096V reference ensures 1mV resolution alignment with industrial sensor scaling. |
Use Scenario: Multi-parameter patient monitor acquiring ECG, SpO₂, and respiration waveforms from isolated front-end circuits. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-noise, low-power ADC capturing biopotential signals with software-selectable gain and filtering. Use Value: Bipolar differential mode rejects common-mode interference from isolation barriers; AutoShutdown conserves power during standby intervals. |
| Battery-Powered Test Equipment | Solar-Powered Remote Environmental Sensors |
|
Use Scenario: Handheld multimeter or data logger measuring voltage, current, and resistance across multiple test points. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Core analog digitizer interfacing directly with probe inputs and microcontroller host via I²C. Use Value: 670µA active current and sub-µA shutdown enable >100-hour battery life on two AA cells; QSOP-16 footprint fits compact handheld enclosures. |
Use Scenario: Unattended field node measuring soil moisture, ambient temperature, and solar irradiance for agricultural IoT networks. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Energy-efficient ADC performing scheduled burst sampling powered by supercapacitor or Li-ion cell. Use Value: External reference support (1V–VDD) allows direct connection to low-voltage solar panel output; 6µA @ 1ksps minimizes quiescent drain. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 12-bit multichannel ADC applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADS7953IRHBT | 12-bit, 16-channel, SPI interface, 2.7–5.25V supply, 1.25MSPS max rate | Higher speed and channel count but requires SPI host and external reference; no integrated T/H | Select when system already uses SPI peripherals and needs >94ksps throughput or >12 channels |
| AD7923BRUZ | 12-bit, 4-channel, SPI interface, 2.7–5.25V supply, 1MSPS max rate, no internal reference | Fewer channels, no internal reference or AutoShutdown; higher power (2.5mA active) | Select for cost-sensitive 4-channel designs where SPI is preferred and external reference is acceptable |
Compared with ADS7953IRHBT and AD7923BRUZ, the MAX1238LEEE+ offers I²C simplicity, integrated 4.096V reference, and sub-µA shutdown-making it optimal for low-pin-count, low-power, and reference-free embedded systems where 94.4ksps suffices.
Availability
MAX1238LEEE+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial process monitoring, medical vital sign acquisition, and battery-powered test equipment requiring stable component supply and long-term manufacturability.
Supply support for MAX1238LEEE+ 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 precision 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 integrated references, I²C compatibility, and extended temperature operation (-40°C to +85°C).
FAQ
What is the internal reference voltage of the MAX1238LEEE+?
The MAX1238LEEE+ features a factory-trimmed 4.096V internal reference, specified from 3.936V to 4.256V over temperature. This reference sets the full-scale input range for unipolar single-ended or differential measurements and eliminates the need for an external precision voltage reference in most applications.
Does the MAX1238LEEE+ support differential input mode?
Yes, the MAX1238LEEE+ supports fully differential input operation across six independent channel pairs (e.g., AIN0+/AIN1−). Configuration is performed via the SGL/DIF bit in the setup register, and bipolar mode (±VREF/2 range) is enabled using the BIP/UNI bit-providing rejection of common-mode noise in noisy industrial environments.
What is the maximum sampling rate achievable with the MAX1238LEEE+?
The MAX1238LEEE+ achieves a maximum throughput rate of 94.4ksps when operating in I²C High-Speed Mode (1.7MHz SCL) with external clocking. In Fast Mode (400kHz), the maximum rate drops to 22.2ksps. Both modes are supported without changing hardware-only firmware configuration of the bus timing mode is required.
How does AutoShutdown™ reduce power consumption in the MAX1238LEEE+?
AutoShutdown™ automatically powers down the MAX1238LEEE+ between conversions, reducing supply current to less than 1µA at low throughput rates. At 1ksps, IDD drops to 6µA; at 10ksps, it is 60µA. This feature is transparent to firmware and requires no explicit command-activation is inherent to the device's conversion sequencing logic.
Can the MAX1238LEEE+ operate with an external reference voltage?
Yes, the MAX1238LEEE+ accepts an external reference voltage from 1V to VDD applied to the AIN3/REF or AIN11/REF pins. When using an external reference, the internal 4.096V reference is disabled, and the full-scale range becomes proportional to the applied VREF-enabling custom scaling for specialized sensor interfaces or improved noise performance with low-drift external references.
MAX1238LEEE+ 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:
- Obsolete
- 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:
- -
MAX1238LEEE+ FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX1238LEEE+ through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX1238LEEE+ 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 MAX1238LEEE+ reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX1238LEEE+ are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX1238LEEE+ is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX1238LEEE+?
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Once your MAX1238LEEE+ 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 MAX1238LEEE+?
For technical support, including MAX1238LEEE+ datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX1238LEEE+ requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX1238LEEE+ is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX1238LEEE+ 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 MAX1238LEEE+ meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX1238LEEE+?
All MAX1238LEEE+ units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX1238LEEE+, 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 MAX1238LEEE+ part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX1238LEEE+:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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