Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX1246BCEE+
- Part No.:
- MAX1246BCEE+
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Analog to Digital Converters (ADC)
- Package:
- 16-SSOP (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
MAX1246BCEE+.pdf
- Description:
- IC ADC 12BIT SAR 16QSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:202
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Product details
Overview
MAX1246BCEE+ from Maxim Integrated is a 12-bit, 4-channel serial analog-to-digital converter (ADC) with integrated track/hold, software-configurable unipolar/bipolar and single-ended/differential inputs, internal 2.5V reference, and SPI/QSPI/MICROWIRE-compatible 4-wire interface. It operates from a single +2.7V to +3.6V supply, achieves 133ksps conversion rate, and draws only 1.2mA at full speed-enabling high-precision data acquisition in portable medical instruments and battery-powered logging systems.
For engineers reviewing the MAX1246BCEE+ datasheet, MAX1246BCEE+ pinout, MAX1246BCEE+ application, or MAX1246BCEE+ equivalent, key selection criteria include its QSOP-16 package footprint, ±1 LSB INL accuracy over 0°C to +70°C, internal reference stability (±30 ppm/°C), low-power shutdown mode (1µA), and compatibility with TMS320-family DSPs via SSTRB strobe output.
Technical Context
The MAX1246BCEE+ employs successive-approximation register (SAR) architecture with a capacitive DAC and integrated track/hold circuitry. Its analog front-end supports pseudo-differential sampling with channel-to-channel offset matching of ±0.25 LSB and small-signal bandwidth of 2.25MHz.
Conversion timing is governed by either an internal oscillator (7.5 MHz typical) or external SCLK up to 2.0 MHz; acquisition time is fixed at 1.5 µs, and aperture jitter is <50 ps. The device uses a 12-bit control byte to configure channel selection, input polarity, and clock/power-down modes-enabling flexible system-level integration without external logic.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Resolution | 12-bit SAR ADC-provides 4096 discrete digital codes for precise analog signal digitization. |
| INL (Integral Nonlinearity) | ±1 LSB max-ensures monotonicity and ≤0.024% full-scale error across temperature and supply range. |
| Sampling Rate | 133 ksps with 2 MHz external clock-supports real-time capture of signals up to ~66 kHz (Nyquist). |
| Supply Current | 1.2 mA at 133 ksps / 3V-enables extended battery life in portable instrumentation. |
| Reference | Internal 2.500 V ±0.8% (25°C), ±30 ppm/°C TC-eliminates need for external reference in space-constrained designs. |
| Input Configuration | Software-selectable 4-channel single-ended or 2-channel differential-reduces BOM count and layout complexity. |
| Interface | SPI/QSPI/MICROWIRE/TMS320-compatible 4-wire serial-direct connection to common microcontrollers and DSPs. |
Pinout & Package
MAX1246BCEE+ is housed in a 16-pin QSOP package (5.3 mm × 10.0 mm), occupying the same PCB area as an 8-pin SOIC-enabling compact, drop-in upgrades in legacy layouts.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VDD (Pin 1) | Positive supply input | Accepts +2.7V to +3.6V; powers analog and digital sections; requires local 0.1 µF bypass to AGND. |
| CH0–CH3 (Pins 2–5) | Analog input channels | Software-multiplexed single-ended or differential inputs; support ±0.5 LSB COM stability requirement. |
| COM (Pin 6) | Analog ground reference | Sets zero-code voltage in single-ended mode; must be stable to ±0.5 LSB during conversion. |
| SHDN (Pin 7) | Three-level shutdown control | Pull low → full power-down (1 µA); float → external REFADJ compensation; pull high → internal compensation. |
| AGND (Pin 10) | Analog ground return | Separate from DGND to minimize noise coupling into sensitive analog front-end. |
| DGND (Pin 11) | Digital ground return | Return path for serial interface and logic; connected to AGND at single point near VDD decoupling. |
| VREF (Pin 8) | Reference buffer output / ADC reference input | 2.500 V nominal output (MAX1246 only); buffered, adjustable via REFADJ; requires 4.7 µF capacitor for stability. |
| REFADJ (Pin 9) | Reference buffer adjustment input | ±1.5% voltage-adjustment range; tie to VDD to disable internal reference buffer (not used in MAX1246BCEE+). |
| SCLK (Pin 16) | Serial clock input | Drives data transfer and (in external mode) conversion timing; 40–60% duty cycle required. |
| CS (Pin 15) | Active-low chip select | Enables serial interface; DOUT and SSTRB go high-Z when CS = high. |
| DIN (Pin 14) | Serial data input | Accepts 8-bit control byte on SCLK rising edge; defines channel, polarity, and clock mode. |
| DOUT (Pin 12) | Serial data output | Outputs 12-bit result MSB-first on SCLK falling edge; high-Z when CS = high. |
| SSTRB (Pin 13) | Serial strobe output | Signals conversion start/end: low during conversion (internal mode) or one-cycle pulse before MSB (external mode). |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated 2.5V reference buffer | Eliminates external reference IC and associated passive components-reducing board area and calibration overhead. |
| Software-configurable input modes | Single control byte selects unipolar/bipolar and single-ended/differential operation-enabling one hardware design to serve multiple sensor types. |
| Three power-down states | Full shutdown (1 µA), fast shutdown (54 µA at 1 ksps), and automatic post-conversion shutdown-optimizing current draw per sampling interval. |
| QSOP-16 footprint compatibility | Same board area as 8-pin SOIC-facilitates migration from lower-channel ADCs or space-constrained upgrades without layout redesign. |
| TMS320-family DSP interface support | Dedicated SSTRB output synchronizes conversion completion with DSP interrupt handling-reducing firmware latency and polling overhead. |
Applications
| Portable Data Logging | Medical Instrumentation |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Battery-powered environmental sensor node recording temperature, humidity, and pressure over multi-day intervals. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary ADC acquiring four analog sensor outputs sequentially at 1–10 ksps, using internal reference and automatic shutdown between samples. Use Value: 1.2 mA active current and 1 µA shutdown enable >1-year battery life on two AA cells while maintaining 12-bit resolution and ±1 LSB linearity. |
Use Scenario: Handheld ECG monitor digitizing lead I, II, III, and augmented limb signals with programmable gain and filtering. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Front-end ADC providing differential bipolar input capability, low noise floor (<300 µVp-p), and tight channel-to-channel offset matching (±0.25 LSB). Use Value: Enables accurate differential biopotential measurement without external instrumentation amplifiers or precision references-reducing component count and calibration steps. |
| Pen Digitizers | Industrial Process Control |
Use Scenario: Active stylus interface in tablet PCs measuring X/Y position and pressure via resistive or capacitive sensor arrays. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-speed 4-channel ADC sampling analog voltages from sensor grid lines with 1.5 µs acquisition time and 133 ksps throughput. Use Value: Fast track/hold and 2.25 MHz small-signal bandwidth support sub-millisecond position updates-critical for low-latency pen responsiveness. |
Use Scenario: Modular PLC analog input module acquiring 4-channel 4–20 mA or 0–10 V industrial sensor signals in harsh factory environments. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Isolated ADC interface with robust analog input protection (−0.3 V to VDD + 0.3 V) and ±1.5% REFADJ adjustability for field calibration. Use Value: Internal reference stability (±30 ppm/°C) and channel-to-channel gain matching (±0.5 LSB) ensure long-term measurement repeatability without periodic recalibration. |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADS7816U | 8-pin SOIC, no internal reference, requires external 2.5V ref; 200 ksps max; ±0.5 LSB INL | Lower channel count (1-channel), higher speed, but adds reference IC and increases BOM cost/area | Select when single-channel throughput >133 ksps is required and board space allows external reference. |
| MAX11131ETE+ | 12-bit, 4-channel, internal ref, but 1 MSPS sampling rate; 10-pin µMAX; 2.7–3.6V supply | Higher speed and smaller package, but higher power (2.5 mA active) and tighter layout constraints | Select when oversampling or faster transient capture is needed and thermal management supports higher IDD. |
Compared with ADS7816U and MAX11131ETE+, the MAX1246BCEE+ delivers optimal balance of integrated functionality (reference + T/H + 4-channel mux), ultra-low standby current (1 µA), and proven reliability in portable medical and industrial logging-without requiring layout changes or additional support components.
Availability
MAX1246BCEE+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable data logging, medical instrumentation, and industrial process control requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle availability, and guaranteed traceable sourcing.
Supply support for MAX1246BCEE+ 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 MAX1246/MAX1247 family was designed for low-power, high-accuracy data acquisition in space- and energy-constrained systems-emphasizing integrated references, flexible input configurations, and minimal external component count.
FAQ
What is the operating temperature range for MAX1246BCEE+?
The MAX1246BCEE+ is rated for 0°C to +70°C ambient operation, as confirmed in the Ordering Information table. This commercial-grade temperature range aligns with its QSOP-16 packaging and target applications in portable and industrial instrumentation where controlled thermal environments are typical. The device maintains ±1 LSB INL and 1.2 mA supply current specifications across this full range.
Does MAX1246BCEE+ require an external reference voltage?
No, MAX1246BCEE+ includes an internal 2.500 V reference buffer with ±0.8% initial accuracy and ±30 ppm/°C temperature coefficient-fully eliminating the need for an external reference. The VREF pin delivers this regulated output, and REFADJ enables ±1.5% fine adjustment. External reference mode applies only to the MAX1247 variant, not MAX1246BCEE+.
How does the SHDN pin function on MAX1246BCEE+?
The SHDN pin on MAX1246BCEE+ provides three distinct operating states: pulled low → full power-down (1 µA); left floating → external REFADJ compensation mode; pulled high → internal REFADJ compensation mode. This three-level control enables precise power-state management and reference tuning without additional GPIO resources or external logic.
Can MAX1246BCEE+ interface directly with SPI microcontrollers?
Yes, MAX1246BCEE+ is fully compatible with standard SPI interfaces when configured with CPOL = 0 and CPHA = 0. Its 4-wire serial interface (SCLK, DIN, DOUT, CS) supports master-mode operation, and the SSTRB output provides hardware synchronization for interrupt-driven data reads-enabling seamless integration with STM32, PIC, and other SPI-capable MCUs without level-shifting or protocol translation.
What is the maximum source impedance supported for analog inputs on MAX1246BCEE+?
MAX1246BCEE+ specifies a minimum acquisition time of 1.5 µs and supports source impedances up to 1 kΩ without degrading AC performance. For higher impedances, a 0.01 µF capacitor at each analog input is recommended to maintain signal integrity-though this forms an RC filter that limits effective input bandwidth. Input leakage is ±0.01 µA, ensuring minimal loading on high-Z sensors.
MAX1246BCEE+ 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):
- 133k
- Number of Inputs:
- 2, 4
- Input Type:
- Differential, Single Ended
- Data Interface:
- SPI
- Configuration:
- MUX-S/H-ADC
- Ratio - S/H:ADC:
- 1:1
- Number of A/D Converters:
- 1
- Architecture:
- SAR
- Reference Type:
- External, Internal
- Voltage - Supply, Analog:
- 2.7V ~ 3.6V
- Voltage - Supply, Digital:
- 2.7V ~ 3.6V
- Features:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- 0°C ~ 70°C
- Supplier Device Package:
- 16-QSOP
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
MAX1246BCEE+ FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX1246BCEE+ through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX1246BCEE+ 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 MAX1246BCEE+ reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX1246BCEE+ are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX1246BCEE+ is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX1246BCEE+?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX1246BCEE+ transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX1246BCEE+?
MAX1246BCEE+ orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX1246BCEE+ 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 MAX1246BCEE+?
For technical support, including MAX1246BCEE+ datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX1246BCEE+ requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX1246BCEE+ is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX1246BCEE+ 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 MAX1246BCEE+ meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX1246BCEE+?
All MAX1246BCEE+ units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX1246BCEE+, 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 MAX1246BCEE+ part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX1246BCEE+:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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