Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX1241CESA

Overview

The MAX1241CESA 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 precision data acquisition in space-constrained, battery-powered systems, it accepts analog inputs from 0V to VREF with external reference support.

For engineers reviewing the MAX1241CESA datasheet, MAX1241CESA pinout, MAX1241CESA application, or MAX1241CESA equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, validated pin functions, confirmed thermal and dynamic performance (70dB SINAD, ±0.5 LSB INL), and real-world substitution guidance - all specific to the MAX1241CESA variant in 8-pin SO package with –40°C to +85°C temperature range and ±0.5 LSB integral nonlinearity.

Technical Context

The MAX1241CESA implements a capacitive SAR architecture with integrated track/hold, eliminating need for external hold capacitors. Its conversion sequence is initiated by CS falling edge, with end-of-conversion signaled by DOUT high transition, enabling precise timing control in microcontroller-based systems.

It operates exclusively with an external reference voltage applied to the REF pin (no internal reference), supports unipolar 0V–VREF input range, and uses an on-chip clock synchronized to external SCLK up to 2.1MHz - ensuring deterministic 73ksps throughput without external timing components.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX1241CESA is housed in an 8-pin SO (Small Outline) package, RoHS-compliant and rated for –40°C to +85°C industrial operation. The package footprint matches standard SOIC-8 footprints with 1.27mm pitch.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with ADS7822U and AD7476ARTZ-REEL7, the MAX1241CESA uniquely balances 73ksps throughput, ±0.5 LSB INL accuracy, integrated 1.5µs track/hold, and ultra-low 1.9mA active current - making it optimal for precision, battery-sensitive industrial data acquisition where layout simplicity and thermal stability are critical.

Availability

MAX1241CESA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered data loggers, isolated industrial sensors, portable medical instrumentation, and process control transmitters requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX1241CESA 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 demanding industrial, medical, and communications applications.

The MAX1240/MAX1241 family was engineered specifically for low-power, high-accuracy data acquisition in space- and energy-constrained systems - emphasizing integration (on-chip T/H, clock, serial interface), supply flexibility, and guaranteed performance across –40°C to +85°C.

FAQ

What is the reference voltage configuration for the MAX1241CESA?

The MAX1241CESA requires an external reference voltage applied to the REF pin and does not include or activate an internal reference. It accepts VREF from 1.0V to VDD, with specified accuracy requiring ≤10Ω source impedance and ≥0.1µF ceramic bypass. This differs from the MAX1240 series, which integrates a 2.5V trimmed reference.

Does the MAX1241CESA support SPI mode 0,0 (CPOL=0, CPHA=0)?

Yes, the MAX1241CESA is fully compatible with SPI mode 0,0. Its 3-wire serial interface uses CS falling edge to initiate conversion, DOUT transitions on SCLK falling edge, and outputs MSB-first with a leading end-of-conversion (EOC) bit - matching standard SPI master timing without additional configuration.

What is the maximum allowed source impedance for the AIN pin on the MAX1241CESA?

The MAX1241CESA specifies a maximum source impedance of 1kΩ for optimal AC performance. Higher impedances increase acquisition time per tACQ = 9(RS + RIN) × 16pF (RIN = 9kΩ); above 1kΩ, a 0.01µF capacitor at AIN is recommended to maintain accuracy, though it limits input bandwidth.

How does shutdown mode affect wake-up time for the MAX1241CESA?

In shutdown mode, the MAX1241CESA wakes up in ≤4µs after SHDN is deasserted - significantly faster than the MAX1240 due to absence of internal reference recharge delay. This enables rapid burst-mode sampling with minimal latency penalty, ideal for event-triggered data capture in low-duty-cycle systems.

Is the MAX1241CESA pin-compatible with other variants in the MAX1240/MAX1241 family?

Yes, the MAX1241CESA shares identical 8-pin SO pinout and electrical behavior with all MAX1240/MAX1241 variants (e.g., MAX1241BCSA+, MAX1240ACSA+). Pin functions, timing, and interface protocol are consistent across the family - only supply range, reference architecture, and grade-specific parameters differ.