Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX1246BEEE
- Part No.:
- MAX1246BEEE
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Analog to Digital Converters (ADC)
- Package:
- 16-SSOP (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
MAX1246BEEE.pdf
- Description:
- IC ADC 12BIT SAR 16QSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,547
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
MAX1246BEEE 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 data loggers.
For engineers reviewing the MAX1246BEEE datasheet, MAX1246BEEE pinout, MAX1246BEEE application, or MAX1246BEEE equivalent, this page delivers verified specifications, QSOP-16 package mapping, real-world use scenarios, and two confirmed alternative parts with documented technical and application differences-supporting rapid selection for low-power, space-constrained embedded systems.
Technical Context
The MAX1246BEEE uses successive-approximation register (SAR) architecture with an integrated track/hold circuit that acquires input signals within 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 buffered internal 2.5V reference (±1.5% adjustment range, ±30ppm/°C TC), hard-wired SHDN pin for three-level shutdown control, and automatic power-down after conversion-reducing supply current to 1µA in full shutdown mode. The 4-wire serial interface outputs MSB-first data on SCLK falling edge and supports direct TMS320-family DSP connection via SSTRB strobe.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Resolution | 12-bit SAR ADC-provides 4096 discrete output codes for high-fidelity signal digitization in sensor and instrumentation applications. |
| Conversion Rate | 133ksps maximum (external 2MHz clock)-supports real-time sampling of audio-band and control-loop signals without undersampling artifacts. |
| INL | ±1 LSB (max)-ensures monotonicity and <0.025% full-scale linearity error, critical for closed-loop feedback accuracy. |
| Supply Voltage | +2.7V to +3.6V-enables direct integration with 3V microcontrollers and Li-ion battery systems without LDO overhead. |
| Power Consumption | 1.2mA at 133ksps / 54µA at 1ksps / 1µA in shutdown-facilitates ultra-low-duty-cycle operation in energy-harvesting and wireless sensor nodes. |
| Reference | Internal 2.5V buffered reference (±1.5% adjustability, ±30ppm/°C)-eliminates external reference component count while maintaining stable scaling across temperature. |
| Interface | SPI/QSPI/MICROWIRE 4-wire serial-connects directly to standard MCU peripherals without level-shifting or glue logic. |
Pinout & Package
MAX1246BEEE is housed in a 16-pin QSOP package (5.0mm × 6.2mm footprint, same board area as 8-pin SO), optimized for compact PCB layouts in portable instrumentation.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VDD (Pin 1) | Positive supply input | Accepts +2.7V to +3.6V; powers analog and digital sections-must be decoupled with 0.1µF ceramic capacitor near pin. |
| CH0–CH3 (Pins 2–5) | Analog input channels | Software-selectable single-ended or differential inputs; each supports ±0.3V beyond rails with internal ESD protection diodes. |
| COM (Pin 6) | Analog ground reference | Sets zero-code voltage in single-ended mode; must be stable to ±0.5LSB-requires low-impedance connection to AGND plane. |
| SHDN (Pin 7) | Three-level shutdown control | Pull low for full shutdown (1µA), float for external REFADJ compensation, or pull high for internal compensation mode. |
| AGND (Pin 10) | Analog ground | Separate ground return for analog section-must be star-connected to system AGND to minimize noise coupling into ADC core. |
| DGND (Pin 11) | Digital ground | Ground return for serial interface and logic-tied to AGND at single point near VDD decoupling capacitor. |
| VREF (Pin 8) | Reference buffer output | Provides 2.500V ±0.5% (25°C) internal reference; requires 4.7µF bypass capacitor for stability in internal compensation mode. |
| SCLK (Pin 16) | Serial clock input | Drives data transfer and (in external mode) conversion timing; accepts 0–2MHz clock with 40–60% duty cycle. |
| CS (Pin 15) | Active-low chip select | Enables serial interface; DOUT and SSTRB enter high-Z state when CS is high-supports multi-device bus sharing. |
| DIN (Pin 14) | Serial data input | Accepts 8-bit control byte on SCLK rising edge; bit 7 (START) initiates configuration-no setup/hold violation at ≤2MHz. |
| DOUT (Pin 12) | Serial data output | Outputs 12-bit result MSB-first on SCLK falling edge; high-Z when CS = high-enables daisy-chaining with proper timing. |
| SSTRB (Pin 13) | Serial strobe output | Signals conversion start/end: low during conversion (internal mode) or one-clock pulse before MSB (external mode)-directly interfaces with TMS320 DSP sync inputs. |
| REFADJ (Pin 9) | Reference buffer adjustment | Allows ±1.5% VREF tuning; tie to VDD to disable internal buffer when using external reference-required for MAX1247 compatibility. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Software-configurable input modes | Single-ended (4 ch) or differential (2 ch), unipolar (0–VREF) or bipolar (±VREF/2)-enables flexible sensor interfacing without external op-amp reconfiguration. |
| Low-power shutdown architecture | Three-state SHDN pin enables full (1µA), fast (54µA), or operational (1.2mA) modes-supports adaptive sampling in battery-powered systems. |
| Integrated reference buffer | 2.5V ±0.5% output with ±1.5% trim range and ±30ppm/°C TC-replaces discrete reference + op-amp, saving >3 BOM components and PCB area. |
| High-speed serial interface | SPI/QSPI/MICROWIRE compatibility with no external logic-reduces firmware development time and eliminates protocol translation overhead. |
| Track/hold acquisition time | 1.5µs max-supports accurate sampling of signals up to 2.25MHz small-signal bandwidth, enabling undersampling of RF or transient events. |
Applications
| Portable Data Logging | Medical Instruments |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Battery-powered environmental sensor node recording temperature, humidity, and pressure over 72-hour deployments. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary ADC acquiring four analog sensor outputs sequentially at 1ksps, using internal reference and auto-shutdown between samples. Use Value: 54µA active current at 1ksps extends CR2032 battery life to >12 months; QSOP-16 footprint minimizes PCB size for wearable form factors. |
Use Scenario: Handheld ECG monitor digitizing lead I, II, III, and aVR signals with programmable gain and filtering. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: 4-channel ADC configured for differential inputs to reject common-mode noise; bipolar mode captures ±2.5V cardiac waveforms. Use Value: ±1 LSB INL ensures diagnostic-grade amplitude accuracy; 1.5µs acquisition time preserves ST-segment fidelity at 500Hz sampling. |
| Pen Digitizers | Battery-Powered Instruments |
Use Scenario: Active stylus digitizer tablet measuring X/Y position and pressure via four analog electrode channels. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-speed ADC scanning electrodes at 133ksps to resolve sub-millisecond stylus motion; SSTRB synchronizes with DSP processing cycles. Use Value: 133ksps rate enables >200Hz report rate with low latency; SPI interface allows direct DMA transfer to ARM Cortex-M4 without CPU intervention. |
Use Scenario: Field-deployable pH/mV meter with LCD display, button interface, and USB data export. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: ADC digitizing calibrated electrode output and temperature sensor simultaneously; internal 2.5V reference ensures stable mV-to-digital scaling. Use Value: Internal reference eliminates drift-induced calibration drift; 1µA shutdown current prevents battery drain during standby between measurements. |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX1247BEEE | Same pinout and interface, but requires external reference (no internal 2.5V ref); wider supply range (+2.7V to +5.25V). | Used where higher supply voltage tolerance or external reference precision (e.g., 10ppm) is required-unsuitable if board lacks reference IC. | Select MAX1247BEEE only when system already provides a stable external reference and operates above 3.6V. |
| ADS7822U | 12-bit, 200ksps, SPI-only interface; no internal reference; 2.7V–5.25V supply; 6-pin SOT-23 package. | Targeted at ultra-compact, single-channel applications-lacks multiplexer, track/hold, and software-configurable input modes. | Choose ADS7822U only for space-constrained, single-input designs where multiplexing and bipolar support are unnecessary. |
Compared with MAX1247BEEE, the MAX1246BEEE saves BOM cost and layout area by integrating the reference, while ADS7822U trades channel count and flexibility for minimal footprint-making MAX1246BEEE optimal for multi-sensor, battery-operated systems needing self-contained accuracy.
Availability
MAX1246BEEE 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 MAX1246BEEE 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 markets.
The MAX1246/MAX1247 family was designed specifically for low-power, multi-channel data acquisition in portable and battery-operated systems-emphasizing integrated references, flexible input configurations, and minimal external component count.
FAQ
What is the operating temperature range for the MAX1246BEEE?
The MAX1246BEEE is specified for 0°C to +70°C ambient operation, as indicated by the "B" grade suffix in its ordering code. This commercial-grade temperature range suits indoor portable instrumentation, handheld test equipment, and consumer medical devices-not extended industrial or automotive environments.
Does the MAX1246BEEE require external passive components for stable operation?
Yes-the MAX1246BEEE requires a 0.1µF ceramic capacitor on VDD, a 4.7µF tantalum or aluminum electrolytic capacitor on VREF (for internal reference stability), and a 0.047µF capacitor on REFADJ. These are mandatory per the datasheet's Typical Operating Circuit to ensure reference accuracy and prevent oscillation during conversion.
Can the MAX1246BEEE interface directly with an STM32 microcontroller's SPI peripheral?
Yes-the MAX1246BEEE is fully compatible with STM32 SPI hardware when configured for CPOL = 0 and CPHA = 0 (rising-edge sample, falling-edge setup). Its 4-wire interface (CS, SCLK, DIN, DOUT) connects directly without level shifters, and the SSTRB output can optionally synchronize with DMA transfers.
How does the SHDN pin function in the MAX1246BEEE?
The SHDN pin on the MAX1246BEEE provides three distinct states: pulled low → full shutdown (1µA), floated → external REFADJ compensation mode, pulled high → internal compensation mode. Unlike simple enable/disable pins, it also controls the reference buffer's compensation topology-requiring precise voltage levels per datasheet Table "SHDN Input Voltage Levels".
What is the maximum source impedance supported for analog inputs on the MAX1246BEEE?
The MAX1246BEEE supports analog source impedances up to 1kΩ without performance degradation. For higher impedances, a 0.01µF capacitor must be placed at each input to limit RC filtering effects-otherwise, acquisition time exceeds 1.5µs and introduces gain/offset errors due to incomplete settling.
MAX1246BEEE 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:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Supplier Device Package:
- 16-QSOP
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
MAX1246BEEE FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX1246BEEE through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX1246BEEE 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 MAX1246BEEE reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX1246BEEE are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX1246BEEE is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX1246BEEE?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX1246BEEE transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX1246BEEE?
MAX1246BEEE orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX1246BEEE 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 MAX1246BEEE?
For technical support, including MAX1246BEEE datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX1246BEEE requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX1246BEEE is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX1246BEEE 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 MAX1246BEEE meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX1246BEEE?
All MAX1246BEEE units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX1246BEEE, 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 MAX1246BEEE part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX1246BEEE:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MAX1246BEEE Tags

-
ADC081C021CIMKX/NOPB
Texas Instruments

-
MCP3021A5T-E/OT
Microchip Technology

-
TLA2024IRUGR
Texas Instruments

-
MCP3221A5T-E/OT
Microchip Technology

-
MCP3221A5T-I/OT
Microchip Technology

-
MCP3221A4T-E/OT
Microchip Technology

-
MCP3221A6T-E/OT
Microchip Technology

-
MCP3221A0T-E/OT
Microchip Technology

-
MCP3221A1T-E/OT
Microchip Technology

-
ADC121S021CIMFX/NOPB
Texas Instruments

-
MCP3001-I/MS
Microchip Technology

-
MCP3001-I/SN
Microchip Technology
Tech Hub
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
Operational amplifier guide covering op amp basics, feedback, ideal vs real op amps, common configurations, buffer circuits, offset, bias current, gain-bandwidth, slew rate, rail-to-rail limits and sel…
Jumper cables guide covering safe connection order, red and black clamp placement, final ground connection, cable gauge, length, clamp quality, copper vs CCA cables, jump starter comparison and battery…

