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

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
MAX1246BCEE+T 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 serial interface. It operates from a single +2.7V to +3.6V supply, delivers 133ksps conversion rate, and draws only 1.2mA at full speed-enabling high-precision data acquisition in battery-powered medical instruments and portable data loggers.
For engineers reviewing the MAX1246BCEE+T datasheet, MAX1246BCEE+T pinout, MAX1246BCEE+T application, or MAX1246BCEE+T equivalent, key selection considerations include its QSOP-16 package, ±1 LSB INL accuracy over 0°C to +70°C, internal reference buffer with ±1.5% adjustment range, and shutdown current of <1µA-critical for low-power embedded sensing systems requiring stable timing and minimal quiescent draw.
Technical Context
The MAX1246BCEE+T implements successive-approximation register (SAR) architecture with an integrated track/hold circuit that acquires input signals in ≤1.5µs and supports both internal clock (up to 7.5MHz) and external serial clock (up to 2MHz) operation. Its analog front-end allows software-selectable input configurations: 4-channel single-ended or 2-channel differential, with common-mode range from AGND to VDD.
It features a hard-wired SHDN pin enabling three-level control (full shutdown, fast power-down, or reference compensation mode), automatic power-up on serial interface access, and a serial strobe output (SSTRB) synchronized to conversion start/end-enabling direct interfacing with TMS320-family DSPs without glue logic.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Resolution | 12-bit - delivers 1 LSB = 0.0244% of full-scale range for precise sensor digitization |
| INL (Integral Nonlinearity) | ±1 LSB max - ensures monotonicity and ≤0.024% absolute voltage error across full code range |
| Conversion Rate | 133ksps (external clock) - supports real-time sampling of audio-band and control-loop signals |
| Supply Current | 1.2mA @ 133ksps / 3V - enables >10-hour runtime on a 12mAh coin cell in continuous acquisition |
| Shutdown Current | 1µA - reduces system standby power by >99% versus active mode, critical for wake-on-event designs |
| Reference | Internal 2.500V ±0.8% (25°C), ±30ppm/°C TC - eliminates external reference component and layout area |
| Input Range | 0V to VREF (unipolar) or ±VREF/2 (bipolar) - accommodates both ground-referenced and AC-coupled sensor outputs |
Pinout & Package
MAX1246BCEE+T is housed in a 16-pin QSOP package (5.3mm × 10.2mm), occupying the same PCB footprint as an 8-pin SOIC-enabling compact, drop-in upgrades in space-constrained designs.
| 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 DGND |
| CH0–CH3 (Pins 2–5) | Analog input channels | Software-selectable as single-ended (vs. COM) or differential pairs (CH0/CH1, CH2/CH3); max input = AGND–0.3V to VDD+0.3V |
| COM (Pin 6) | Analog ground reference | Sets zero-code voltage in single-ended mode; must be stable to ±0.5 LSB; connects to AGND plane |
| SHDN (Pin 7) | Three-state shutdown control | Pull low → full shutdown (1µA); float → external REFADJ compensation; pull high → internal compensation |
| AGND (Pin 10) | Analog ground return | Separate from DGND; must tie to quiet analog ground plane; star-point connection recommended |
| DGND (Pin 11) | Digital ground return | Return path for digital I/O; connect to AGND at single point near VDD decoupling capacitor |
| VREF (Pin 8) | Reference buffer output / ADC reference input | 2.500V nominal output (MAX1246 only); bypassed with 4.7µF capacitor; adjustable via REFADJ pin |
| REFADJ (Pin 9) | Reference buffer gain control | Adjusts VREF ±1.5%; tie to VDD to disable internal reference buffer (for external reference use) |
| SCLK (Pin 16) | Serial clock input | Drives data transfer and (in external mode) SAR conversion; 40–60% duty cycle required; max 2MHz |
| CS (Pin 15) | Active-low chip select | Enables serial interface; DOUT goes high-Z when CS = high; defines control byte start bit |
| DIN (Pin 14) | Serial data input | Accepts 8-bit control byte on SCLK rising edge; format includes channel select, unipolar/bipolar, SGL/DIF, PD1/PD0 |
| DOUT (Pin 12) | Serial data output | Outputs 12-bit result MSB-first on SCLK falling edge; high-Z when CS = high; compatible with SPI/QSPI |
| SSTRB (Pin 13) | Serial strobe output | Pulses high before MSB in external clock mode; goes low at conversion start and high at completion in internal mode |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 4-wire SPI/QSPI/MICROWIRE interface | Direct connection to microcontrollers without level shifters or protocol translation-reduces BOM and firmware overhead |
| Software-configurable input modes | Single control byte selects unipolar/bipolar and single-ended/differential per conversion-enables dynamic signal routing in firmware |
| Internal 2.5V reference with ±1.5% adjustability | Eliminates need for external precision reference IC and associated passive components-saves 3–4 mm² PCB area |
| Three-level SHDN pin control | Hardware-selectable power states (full shutdown, fast power-down, reference compensation) enable fine-grained energy management |
| QSOP-16 package (same footprint as 8-pin SO) | Allows migration from legacy 8-pin ADCs without PCB redesign-accelerates time-to-market for cost-sensitive upgrades |
Applications
| Portable Data Logging | Medical Instruments |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Battery-powered environmental sensor node recording temperature, humidity, and pressure at 100Hz intervals over 7-day deployments. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary ADC acquiring four analog sensor outputs sequentially; internal reference ensures consistent scaling across temperature drift. Use Value: 1.2mA active current and 1µA shutdown draw extend battery life beyond 10,000 measurements per charge-meeting UL2050 field-deployment requirements. |
Use Scenario: Handheld ECG monitor digitizing lead-II differential signals with programmable gain and baseline correction. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual-channel differential ADC capturing cardiac waveforms at 1ksps; bipolar mode supports ±1.25V input range matching electrode output swing. Use Value: ±1 LSB INL and 73dB SINAD preserve diagnostic fidelity of ST-segment morphology-supporting FDA Class II device certification. |
| Pen Digitizers | Battery-Powered Instruments |
|
Use Scenario: Active stylus interface in tablet PCs measuring X/Y position via capacitive grid voltage gradients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-speed 4-channel ADC sampling four analog sense lines synchronously; track/hold acquisition time ≤1.5µs minimizes positional jitter. Use Value: 133ksps throughput enables sub-millisecond coordinate updates at 100+ Hz reporting rate-meeting Wacom AES latency benchmarks. |
Use Scenario: Field-portable multimeter acquiring DC voltage, AC RMS, and resistance with auto-ranging and hold functionality. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Precision ADC providing 12-bit resolution across 0.1mV to 1000V ranges; internal reference eliminates calibration drift between ranges. Use Value: ±0.5 LSB offset error and ±0.25 ppm/°C gain TC ensure 0.05% basic accuracy over 0°C–50°C operating range-meeting IEC 61010-1 CAT II safety specs. |
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 | 12-bit, 200ksps, single-supply +2.7V–+5.25V, no internal reference, requires external REF | Lacks integrated reference and shutdown control; needs external 2.5V ref and power management logic | Choose when higher speed (200ksps) is prioritized over board area and power simplicity |
| MAX11100ETE+ | 12-bit, 1MSPS, internal reference, SPI interface, 16-pin TQFN (4mm × 4mm) | Higher speed and smaller footprint, but 1.8V–3.6V supply range excludes 5V systems; no SSTRB output | Choose for space-constrained, high-throughput designs where DSP strobe sync is not required |
Compared with ADS7822U and MAX11100ETE+, the MAX1246BCEE+T uniquely combines internal 2.5V reference, three-level SHDN control, and SSTRB synchronization in QSOP-16-making it optimal for low-power, pin-limited, DSP-coupled data acquisition where reference stability and power sequencing matter most.
Availability
MAX1246BCEE+T 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+T 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 ultra-low-power, high-accuracy data acquisition in size- and energy-constrained systems-emphasizing integrated references, flexible input configuration, and minimal external component count.
FAQ
What is the operating temperature range for MAX1246BCEE+T?
The MAX1246BCEE+T is specified for operation from 0°C to +70°C. This commercial-grade temperature range is validated per the device's datasheet test conditions and applies to all electrical parameters including INL (±1 LSB), supply current (1.2mA typ), and reference voltage (2.500V ±0.8%). It is not rated for extended industrial or automotive temperature ranges.
Does MAX1246BCEE+T require an external reference voltage?
No, the MAX1246BCEE+T includes an internal 2.500V reference buffer and does not require an external reference. The internal reference is factory-trimmed to ±0.8% at +25°C and exhibits ±30ppm/°C temperature coefficient. An external 4.7µF capacitor at VREF and 0.047µF at REFADJ are required for stability and adjustment.
How does the SHDN pin function on MAX1246BCEE+T?
The SHDN pin on MAX1246BCEE+T provides three distinct operating states: pulled low → full power-down (1µA supply current); left floating → external compensation mode for REFADJ; pulled high → internal compensation mode. This hardware-controlled flexibility enables deterministic power state transitions without firmware intervention.
Can MAX1246BCEE+T interface directly with a TMS320 DSP?
Yes, MAX1246BCEE+T supports direct connection to TMS320-family DSPs via its SSTRB (serial strobe) output. In internal clock mode, SSTRB asserts low at conversion start and high at completion; in external mode, it pulses high for one clock period-providing precise hardware synchronization for DMA-triggered data capture without CPU polling.
What is the maximum source impedance supported for analog inputs on MAX1246BCEE+T?
The MAX1246BCEE+T specifies a maximum acquisition time of 1.5µs for source impedances ≤1kΩ. For higher impedances, the acquisition time increases per tACQ = 9 × (RS + 9kΩ) × 16pF. To maintain accuracy with RS > 1kΩ, a 0.01µF capacitor should be placed at each analog input to limit bandwidth and prevent droop-induced errors.
MAX1246BCEE+T Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 16-SSOP (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- 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+T FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX1246BCEE+T through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX1246BCEE+T 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+T reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX1246BCEE+T are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX1246BCEE+T is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX1246BCEE+T?
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MAX1246BCEE+T orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX1246BCEE+T 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+T?
For technical support, including MAX1246BCEE+T datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX1246BCEE+T requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX1246BCEE+T is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX1246BCEE+T 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+T meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX1246BCEE+T?
All MAX1246BCEE+T units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX1246BCEE+T, 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+T part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX1246BCEE+T:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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