Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX1241ACPA+
- Part No.:
- MAX1241ACPA+
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Analog to Digital Converters (ADC)
- Package:
- 8-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Datasheet:
-
MAX1241ACPA+.pdf
- Description:
- IC ADC 12BIT SAR 8DIP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,244
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Product details
Overview
MAX1241ACPA+ from Maxim Integrated is a low-power, 12-bit successive-approximation analog-to-digital converter (ADC) operating from a single +2.7V to +5.25V supply. It features a 7.5µs conversion time, internal track/hold with 1.5µs acquisition, and SPI/QSPI/MICROWIRE-compatible 3-wire serial interface. Designed for battery-powered sensor nodes and isolated data-acquisition systems requiring high resolution and minimal power.
For engineers reviewing the MAX1241ACPA+ datasheet, MAX1241ACPA+ pinout, MAX1241ACPA+ application, or MAX1241ACPA+ equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, real-world design meaning of key specs, validated pin functions, and two confirmed alternative parts - all grounded in the official MAX1240/MAX1241 datasheet Rev 5 (8/10).
Technical Context
The MAX1241ACPA+ implements a capacitive SAR architecture with integrated track/hold, eliminating external hold capacitors. Its analog input accepts 0V to VREF signals, where VREF is externally supplied and must be stable within ±10mV during conversion.
It operates in two modes: normal (73ksps max throughput) and shutdown (≤2µA supply current). The 3-wire serial interface uses unipolar MSB-first output format with an EOC-leading bit, and supports clock rates up to 2.1MHz with unrestricted duty cycle as long as each phase exceeds 200ns.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Resolution | 12-bit - delivers 4096 discrete digital codes over full-scale range |
| Conversion Time | 7.5 µs - sets minimum inter-conversion interval at 73ksps maximum rate |
| Track/Hold Acquisition | 1.5 µs - defines minimum signal settling time before CS falling edge initiates conversion |
| INL (Integral Nonlinearity) | ±0.5 LSB - ensures monotonicity and <0.012% full-scale error across temperature |
| Supply Voltage Range | +2.7V to +5.25V - enables direct interfacing with 3.3V and 5V microcontrollers without level-shifting |
| SPI Clock Frequency | Up to 2.1 MHz - allows fast readout using standard MCU hardware SPI peripherals |
| Power Consumption | 3 mW at 73ksps (VDD = 3.6V) - supports >1-year operation on coin-cell batteries in periodic-sampling applications |
Pinout & Package
MAX1241ACPA+ is housed in an 8-pin plastic DIP (PDIP) package with through-hole mounting and 0.3-inch body width. Pin spacing is 0.1 inch, compatible with standard prototyping and production PCB footprints.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VDD (Pin 1) | Positive supply input | Accepts +2.7V to +5.25V; powers analog core, reference buffer, and digital interface |
| AIN (Pin 2) | Analog input | Single-ended input referenced to GND; 0V to VREF range; protected to ±0.3V beyond rails |
| SHDN (Pin 3) | Three-level shutdown control | Pull low for ≤2µA shutdown; open or high for active mode; controls internal reference enable only on MAX1240 |
| REF (Pin 4) | Reference voltage terminal | External reference input (MAX1241); requires ≥0.1µF bypass; load capable of sourcing 250µA DC |
| GND (Pin 5) | Analog/digital common ground | Single-point star ground connection required; separates analog and digital return paths |
| SCLK (Pin 6) | Serial clock input | Asynchronous external clock; drives data shift-out; min pulse width 200ns per phase |
| CS (Pin 7) | Active-low chip select | Falling edge initiates conversion; high state places DOUT in high-impedance mode |
| DOUT (Pin 8) | Serial data output | MSB-first unipolar output; transitions on SCLK falling edge; EOC bit precedes 12 data bits |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Single-supply operation | Operates from +2.7V to +5.25V - eliminates dual-rail supplies and simplifies power architecture |
| Internal track/hold | 1.5µs acquisition time with no external capacitor - reduces BOM count and layout sensitivity |
| SPI/QSPI/MICROWIRE compatibility | Direct connection to standard MCU serial peripherals - no custom firmware or glue logic needed |
| Low-power shutdown mode | ≤2µA supply current - enables energy harvesting and ultra-low-duty-cycle sensor wake-up schemes |
| External reference flexibility | REF pin accepts 1.0V to VDD - supports precision references, ratiometric sensing, or system-level voltage scaling |
Applications
| Battery-Powered Sensor Node | Isolated Data Acquisition |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Remote environmental monitoring using lithium-thionyl chloride battery and low-power MCU. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary ADC digitizing thermistor, humidity, and pressure sensor outputs at 1–10Hz intervals. Use Value: 3 mW active power and 2µA shutdown current extend battery life beyond 5 years; 12-bit resolution captures sub-degree thermal changes. |
Use Scenario: Industrial current/voltage measurement across galvanic isolation barrier. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Isolated-side ADC sampling analog signals from shunt resistors or CTs before digital transmission. Use Value: Single-supply +2.7V–+5.25V operation matches isolated DC-DC output; 7.5µs conversion enables real-time response within 100µs control loops. |
| Portable Data Logger | Process Control Transmitter |
Use Scenario: Handheld device logging vibration, temperature, and strain gauge readings in field service. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-accuracy front-end ADC feeding SD card or BLE interface via low-pin-count serial bus. Use Value: 8-pin PDIP footprint minimizes PCB area; ±0.5 LSB INL ensures calibration stability across 0°C–70°C operating range. |
Use Scenario: 4–20mA loop-powered transmitter measuring tank level or flow rate. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Precision ADC converting conditioned sensor output prior to DAC-driven current loop modulation. Use Value: External REF input allows ratiometric operation with same reference used by sensor excitation - cancels supply drift errors. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 12-bit serial ADC applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADS7822U | 2.7V–5.25V supply; 12-bit SAR; 200ksps; internal reference only; SPI-only interface | Higher speed but lacks shutdown mode; no external REF option | Select when higher throughput is critical and external reference not required |
| AD7490BRUZ | 2.7V–5.25V supply; 12-bit SAR; 1MSPS; internal reference; SPI-compatible 4-wire interface | Requires additional CS/SCLK/DOUT/DIN lines; no SHDN pin; higher power (12mW) | Select when system demands >100ksps sampling and board space permits larger TSSOP-20 package |
Compared with ADS7822U and AD7490BRUZ, the MAX1241ACPA+ uniquely combines external reference support, true 2µA shutdown, and 3-wire simplicity - making it optimal for ultra-low-power, ratiometric, or space-constrained designs where 73ksps suffices.
Availability
MAX1241ACPA+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered systems, portable data logging, isolated data acquisition, and process control requiring stable component supply and long-term manufacturability.
Supply support for MAX1241ACPA+ 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 MAX1240/MAX1241 product line was designed for low-power, space-constrained data-acquisition systems requiring 12-bit accuracy and simple serial interfacing - targeting remote sensors, handheld instruments, and isolated measurement front-ends.
FAQ
What is the reference voltage requirement for MAX1241ACPA+?
The MAX1241ACPA+ requires an external reference voltage applied to the REF pin, ranging from +1.0V to VDD. For full 12-bit accuracy, the reference must be stable within ±10mV during conversion and capable of sourcing up to 250µA DC load current. A minimum 0.1µF ceramic bypass capacitor is required at the REF pin; a 4.7µF capacitor is recommended if the reference has higher output impedance or noise.
Does MAX1241ACPA+ support SPI mode 0,0 (CPOL=0, CPHA=0)?
Yes, MAX1241ACPA+ fully supports SPI mode 0,0. Its 3-wire serial interface uses CS falling edge to initiate conversion, DOUT transitions on SCLK falling edge, and outputs data MSB-first with an EOC-leading bit. No setup/hold timing violations occur under CPOL=0, CPHA=0, and it is explicitly compatible with SPI, QSPI, and MICROWIRE protocols per the datasheet.
What is the maximum source impedance allowed at the AIN pin of MAX1241ACPA+?
The MAX1241ACPA+ analog input has an effective input resistance of 9kΩ. To maintain specified acquisition time (tACQ ≤1.5µs), the source impedance should be ≤1kΩ. Higher impedances increase tACQ per the formula tACQ = 9(RS + 9kΩ) × 16pF. If RS exceeds 1kΩ, a 0.01µF capacitor placed directly at AIN is required to limit bandwidth and ensure stable sampling.
Can MAX1241ACPA+ operate with a 5V supply while using a 2.5V external reference?
Yes, MAX1241ACPA+ supports VDD = +5.25V and VREF = +2.5V simultaneously. The device's REF input range includes the positive supply rail, and its absolute maximum rating allows REF up to VDD + 0.3V. With VDD = 5V and VREF = 2.5V, the ADC digitizes 0V–2.5V inputs with full 12-bit resolution and maintains ±0.5 LSB INL performance across 0°C to +70°C.
How does the SHDN pin function on MAX1241ACPA+?
On MAX1241ACPA+, the SHDN pin is a three-level control: pulling it low places the device in shutdown mode (≤2µA supply current); leaving it open or pulling it high enables normal operation. Unlike the MAX1240, SHDN has no effect on reference selection - the MAX1241ACPA+ always uses an external reference regardless of SHDN state.
MAX1241ACPA+ Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Number of Bits:
- 12
- Sampling Rate (Per Second):
- 73k
- Number of Inputs:
- 1
- Input Type:
- Single Ended
- Data Interface:
- SPI
- Configuration:
- S/H-ADC
- Ratio - S/H:ADC:
- 1:1
- Number of A/D Converters:
- 1
- Architecture:
- SAR
- Reference Type:
- External
- Voltage - Supply, Analog:
- 2.7V ~ 5.25V
- Voltage - Supply, Digital:
- 2.7V ~ 5.25V
- Features:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- 0°C ~ 70°C
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-PDIP
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
MAX1241ACPA+ FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX1241ACPA+ through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX1241ACPA+ 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 MAX1241ACPA+ reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX1241ACPA+ are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX1241ACPA+ is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX1241ACPA+?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX1241ACPA+ transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX1241ACPA+?
MAX1241ACPA+ orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX1241ACPA+ 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 MAX1241ACPA+?
For technical support, including MAX1241ACPA+ datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX1241ACPA+ requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX1241ACPA+ is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX1241ACPA+ 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 MAX1241ACPA+ meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX1241ACPA+?
All MAX1241ACPA+ units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX1241ACPA+, 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 MAX1241ACPA+ part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX1241ACPA+:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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