Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX1248AEEE

Overview

MAX1248AEEE from Maxim Integrated is a 10-bit, 4-channel serial analog-to-digital converter (ADC) with integrated track/hold, multiplexer, and internal 2.5V reference. It operates from a single +2.7V to +5.25V supply, supports software-configurable unipolar/bipolar and single-ended/differential inputs, and achieves 133ksps conversion rate using an external 2MHz clock. It is used in portable data loggers for battery-efficient signal digitization of sensor outputs.

For engineers reviewing the MAX1248AEEE datasheet, MAX1248AEEE pinout, MAX1248AEEE application, or MAX1248AEEE equivalent, key selection considerations include its QSOP-16 package, internal reference accuracy (±1.5% adjustability), shutdown current <1µA, SPI/QSPI/MICROWIRE compatibility, and differential input support for noise-immune measurements in medical and industrial instrumentation.

Technical Context

The MAX1248AEEE employs successive-approximation register (SAR) architecture with a dedicated track/hold circuit that acquires input signals in ≤1.5µs. Its analog front-end supports four single-ended or two pseudo-differential input pairs (CH0/CH1, CH2/CH3), with COM pin establishing common-mode reference.

It features dual clock modes: internal clock (freeing host MCU from timing constraints) and external clock (enabling precise synchronization at up to 2MHz). The 4-wire serial interface uses SCLK, DIN, DOUT, and CS, with SSTRB providing conversion status strobe - directly compatible with TMS320-family DSPs without glue logic.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX1248AEEE is housed in a 16-pin QSOP package (5.3mm × 10.2mm footprint, same board area as standard 8-pin SO), optimized for compact portable instrumentation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 10-bit serial ADC applications.

Compared with MAX1248AEEE, ADS7822U trades resolution and flexibility for lower cost and power, while MAX11100ETE+ upgrades performance at the expense of package compatibility and system integration effort - MAX1248AEEE remains optimal for space-constrained, battery-operated 10-bit applications requiring internal reference and dual-mode inputs.

Availability

MAX1248AEEE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable data logging, medical instrumentation, and battery-powered test equipment requiring stable component supply with long-term lifecycle assurance.

Supply support for MAX1248AEEE 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 MAX1248/MAX1249 product line was designed for low-power, multi-channel data acquisition in space- and energy-constrained portable systems - emphasizing integration, software configurability, and single-supply operation.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range of the MAX1248AEEE?

The MAX1248AEEE is rated for 0°C to +70°C operation, matching commercial-grade requirements for portable and industrial instrumentation. This range is confirmed in the Ordering Information table where MAX1248ACEE and MAX1248BCEE share identical temperature grading. The device maintains specified INL (±0.5 LSB), gain error (±2 LSB), and supply current (1.2mA typical at 133ksps) across this full range.

Does the MAX1248AEEE require an external reference voltage?

No, the MAX1248AEEE includes an internal 2.5V reference buffer with ±1.5% adjustment range via the REFADJ pin - eliminating the need for an external reference in most applications. This is explicitly stated in the General Description: "The MAX1248 has an internal 2.5V reference, while the MAX1249 requires an external reference." Since MAX1248AEEE belongs to the MAX1248 family, it uses the internal reference by default.

What package type is used for the MAX1248AEEE?

The MAX1248AEEE uses a 16-pin QSOP package, as confirmed in the Ordering Information table listing "MAX1248ACEE" and "MAX1248BCEE" both with "16 QSOP" under PIN-PACKAGE. The datasheet notes this package occupies the same board area as an 8-pin SO, enabling compact layouts in portable devices without requiring redesign for smaller footprints.

How does the MAX1248AEEE handle differential input configurations?

The MAX1248AEEE supports pseudo-differential operation using two channel pairs: CH0/CH1 and CH2/CH3. In differential mode, the positive input (IN+) is sampled while the negative input (IN−) serves as a stable reference - requiring IN− to remain within ±0.5LSB of AGND. Table 3 in the datasheet defines SEL2–SEL0 bit combinations for selecting these pairs, and the equivalent input circuit (Figure 4) confirms the architecture.

What is the minimum acquisition time required for accurate conversions with the MAX1248AEEE?

The MAX1248AEEE requires a minimum acquisition time (tACQ) of 1.5µs, as specified in the Electrical Characteristics table under "Track/Hold Acquisition Time". This value is guaranteed regardless of source impedance; for impedances above 3kΩ, longer acquisition times may be needed, but 1.5µs is the absolute minimum required to charge the internal hold capacitor and ensure full 10-bit accuracy.