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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:3,028
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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, this page delivers verified technical context, confirmed pin functions, real-world use-value per application, and two validated alternative parts with documented functional and parametric differences-supporting rapid selection for low-power, space-constrained embedded designs.
Technical Context
The MAX1246BCEE uses successive-approximation register (SAR) architecture with an internal track/hold circuit that acquires input signals in ≤1.5µs and supports both internal clock (up to 7.5MHz) and external clock (up to 2MHz) conversion modes. Its analog front-end allows software-selectable input configurations: 4-channel single-ended or 2-channel differential, with COM pin defining zero-code reference.
It integrates a buffered 2.5V internal reference (±1.5% adjustability via REFADJ), reference buffer disable capability, and three-level SHDN control (full shutdown, fast shutdown, and compensation mode selection). The 4-wire serial interface outputs MSB-first data on DOUT at SCLK falling edge and supports direct TMS320 DSP interfacing via SSTRB strobe.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Resolution | 12-bit - delivers 1 LSB = 610µV at 2.5V reference, enabling sub-millivolt measurement precision. |
| INL (Integral Nonlinearity) | ±1 LSB max - ensures monotonicity and <0.024% full-scale error across temperature (0°C to +70°C). |
| Conversion Rate | 133ksps (external clock, 2MHz) - supports real-time sampling of audio-band and sensor signals without undersampling artifacts. |
| Supply Current | 1.2mA at 133ksps / 54µA at 1ksps / 1µA in power-down - enables dynamic power scaling for multi-sampling-rate systems. |
| Input Range | 0V to VREF (unipolar) or ±VREF/2 (bipolar) - accommodates both ground-referenced and AC-coupled sensor interfaces. |
| Reference | Internal 2.5V ±0.5% (25°C), ±30ppm/°C TC - eliminates need for external reference IC in cost-sensitive portable designs. |
| Interface | SPI/QSPI/MICROWIRE 4-wire serial - interoperates with standard microcontroller peripherals without level-shifting or glue logic. |
Pinout & Package
MAX1246BCEE is housed in a 16-pin QSOP package (5.3mm × 10.2mm), occupying the same PCB footprint as an 8-pin SOIC-ideal for space-constrained layouts. Pin functions are electrically validated per Maxim's official pin description and typical operating circuit.
| 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 0.1µF bypass to AGND. |
| CH0–CH3 (Pins 2–5) | Analog input channels | Software-selectable as single-ended (vs. COM) or differential pairs (CH0/CH1, CH2/CH3); max input swing = AGND −0.3V to VDD +0.3V. |
| COM (Pin 6) | Common-mode reference | Sets zero-code voltage in single-ended mode; must be stable to ±0.5 LSB; connects to AGND or mid-supply for bipolar operation. |
| SHDN (Pin 7) | Three-state shutdown control | Pull low → full shutdown (1µA); float → external reference compensation; pull high → internal compensation mode. |
| AGND (Pin 10) | Analog ground return | Separate from DGND; must be star-connected near VDD bypass cap to minimize noise coupling into ADC core. |
| DGND (Pin 11) | Digital ground return | Return path for serial interface and logic; ties to AGND at single point (typically at VDD decoupling capacitor). |
| VREF (Pin 8) | Reference output/input | 2.5V buffered output (MAX1246 only); short-circuit protected (30mA); requires 4.7µF ceramic bypass for stability. |
| REFADJ (Pin 9) | Reference buffer adjustment | ±1.5% VREF trim input; tie to VDD to disable internal reference buffer when using external reference. |
| SCLK (Pin 16) | Serial clock input | Drives data I/O and (in external clock mode) conversion timing; 40–60% duty cycle required; max 2MHz frequency. |
| CS (Pin 15) | Chip select (active-low) | Enables serial interface; DOUT goes high-Z when CS high; defines start of control byte on first '1' after CS fall. |
| DIN (Pin 14) | Serial data input | Accepts 8-bit control byte on SCLK rising edge; bit format defines channel, polarity, mode, and clock source (Table 1). |
| DOUT (Pin 12) | Serial data output | Outputs 12-bit result MSB-first on SCLK falling edge; high-Z when CS high; compatible with 3.3V/5V logic levels. |
| SSTRB (Pin 13) | Serial strobe output | Signals conversion start/end: low during conversion (internal clock) or pulses high before MSB (external clock); used for TMS320 sync. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 4-channel multiplexer + track/hold | Reduces external signal conditioning components; supports sequential sampling of four sensors with <1.5µs acquisition time. |
| Internal 2.5V reference with REFADJ | Eliminates external reference IC and trimming potentiometer; ±1.5% adjustment range enables calibration to system-level accuracy targets. |
| Three-level SHDN control | Enables fine-grained power management: full shutdown (1µA), fast shutdown (54µA), and reference-compensation mode for standby readiness. |
| SPI/QSPI/MICROWIRE compatibility | Interoperates with industry-standard MCU peripherals without protocol translation firmware or external logic gates. |
| QSOP-16 footprint equivalence | Shares board area with 8-pin SOIC-allows migration from simpler ADCs or dual-device consolidation without layout redesign. |
Applications
| Portable Data Logging | Medical Instrumentation |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Battery-powered environmental sensor node recording temperature, humidity, and pressure over 72-hour intervals. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary ADC acquiring four analog sensor outputs sequentially at 1ksps, using internal reference and automatic power-down between samples. Use Value: 54µA active current at 1ksps extends coin-cell life beyond 12 months; QSOP-16 footprint minimizes PCB area vs. discrete mux+ADC solutions. |
Use Scenario: Handheld ECG monitor digitizing lead-I, II, III differential signals with baseline drift correction. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Configured in differential mode (CH0/CH1, CH2/CH3) with bipolar input range (±1.25V) and COM tied to mid-supply for AC coupling. Use Value: ±1 LSB INL ensures diagnostic-grade linearity; internal reference eliminates drift from external reference ICs in variable-temperature clinical environments. |
| Pen Digitizers | Battery-Powered Test Equipment |
Use Scenario: Active stylus interface capturing X/Y position and pressure via resistive overlay with four analog sense lines. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Sampling CH0–CH3 in rapid sequence to resolve stylus coordinates; uses unipolar mode with COM grounded and internal 2.5V reference. Use Value: 133ksps rate supports >200Hz stylus update; 12-bit resolution resolves 4096×4096 coordinate grid with <0.025% quantization error. |
Use Scenario: Portable multimeter measuring DC voltage, current, and resistance with auto-ranging and hold function. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: ADC core for main measurement path; configured for single-ended inputs with programmable gain amplifier (PGA) front-end and software-calibrated offset/gain. Use Value: Internal reference stability (±30ppm/°C) maintains accuracy across 0°C–50°C operating range; SHDN pin enables instant wake-from-sleep on button press. |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX1247BCEE | Same pinout and interface, but requires external reference (no internal VREF); wider supply range (+2.7V to +5.25V); higher INL (±2 LSB max). | Used where system already provides a precision external reference (e.g., ADR4525) and higher supply voltage tolerance is needed. | Select MAX1247BCEE only if external reference is available and VDD may exceed +3.6V; not drop-in for MAX1246BCEE due to missing internal reference. |
| ADS7822U | 12-bit, 200ksps, SPI-only interface; no internal reference; requires external 2.5V ref; 8-pin SOIC package; lower power (1.25mW at 200ksps). | Targeted at ultra-compact, high-speed single-channel applications where multiplexing is handled externally. | Choose ADS7822U for space-constrained single-input designs with existing reference; not suitable as direct replacement due to lack of mux, internal ref, and different pinout. |
Compared with MAX1247BCEE and ADS7822U, the MAX1246BCEE uniquely combines internal reference, 4-channel mux, and QSOP-16 footprint-making it optimal for portable multi-sensor systems where BOM count, PCB area, and supply simplicity are critical.
Availability
MAX1246BCEE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable data logging, medical instrumentation, and battery-powered test equipment requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, 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 U.S.-based 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 portable systems-emphasizing integrated functionality (mux, T/H, reference, serial interface) to reduce system-level component count.
FAQ
What is the operating temperature range for the MAX1246BCEE?
The MAX1246BCEE is specified for 0°C to +70°C ambient operation. This commercial-grade temperature range is validated per Maxim's ordering information table, where "B" grade denotes 0°C to +70°C, and "C" grade (e.g., MAX1246ACEE) shares the same range but tighter initial INL (±0.5 LSB). The device's internal reference exhibits ±30ppm/°C drift over this range, supporting stable performance in handheld and benchtop equipment.
Does the MAX1246BCEE require an external reference capacitor?
Yes-the MAX1246BCEE requires a 4.7µF ceramic capacitor connected from VREF (Pin 8) to AGND for internal reference stability. This is explicitly mandated in the Electrical Characteristics table under "Capacitive Bypass at VREF" for internal compensation mode. Omitting this capacitor causes reference ripple and degrades INL and gain error, especially at higher sampling rates. A 0.047µF capacitor is also required at REFADJ (Pin 9) for proper buffer operation.
How does the SHDN pin function on the MAX1246BCEE?
The SHDN pin on the MAX1246BCEE provides three distinct operational states: pulling it low enables full power-down (1µA supply current); letting it float configures the reference buffer for external compensation (requiring 4.7µF at VREF); and pulling it high selects internal compensation mode. This behavior is confirmed in the Pin Description section and differs from simple on/off shutdown-enabling precise control over reference stability and wake-up latency in battery-operated systems.
Can the MAX1246BCEE perform differential measurements?
Yes-the MAX1246BCEE supports true pseudo-differential measurements using CH0/CH1 and CH2/CH3 input pairs. In differential mode (SGL/DIF = 0), the device samples the voltage difference |IN+ − IN−|, with IN− required to remain stable within ±0.5 LSB relative to AGND. This is implemented via internal switching and confirmed in Tables 2 and 3 of the datasheet, enabling rejection of common-mode noise in sensor interfaces without external instrumentation amplifiers.
What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the MAX1246BCEE serial interface?
The MAX1246BCEE supports up to 2MHz for the external SCLK signal in both data transfer and external clock conversion modes. This limit is specified in the Electrical Characteristics table under "External Clock Frequency" and is critical for achieving the full 133ksps conversion rate. Exceeding 2MHz violates timing margins and risks metastability in the serial shift register, leading to corrupted control bytes or conversion results.
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:
- Obsolete
- 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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