Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX1293ACEG

Overview

MAX1293ACEG from Maxim Integrated is a 12-bit, 250ksps successive-approximation ADC with integrated +2.5V reference, software-configurable 4-channel single-ended or 2-channel pseudo-differential analog input, and byte-wide parallel (8+4) interface. It operates from a single +3V analog supply and supports digital logic levels from +1.8V to +3.6V via VLOGIC, enabling direct interfacing with low-voltage microcontrollers in portable data-acquisition systems.

For engineers reviewing the MAX1293ACEG datasheet, MAX1293ACEG pinout, MAX1293ACEG application, or MAX1293ACEG equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, real-world timing behavior, validated power-down current specs (2µA), confirmed package mapping (24-pin QSOP), and two rigorously cross-checked alternative parts for industrial sensor interface and battery-powered monitoring designs.

Technical Context

The MAX1293ACEG implements a charge-redistribution SAR architecture with an internal track/hold stage offering 3MHz full-power bandwidth and 250kHz full-linear bandwidth. Its control byte (D7–D0) configures acquisition mode (internal/external), unipolar/bipolar range, single-ended/pseudo-differential input, and power-down state - all without external clock or reference components.

It features dual power domains: VDD powers the analog core and internal reference, while VLOGIC independently supplies the 12-bit parallel I/O bus (D0–D11 multiplexed via HBEN). INT asserts low upon conversion completion, and CS high tri-states D0–D7 and INT, supporting multi-device bus sharing.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX1293ACEG is housed in a 24-pin QSOP package (5.0mm × 7.5mm, 0.635mm pitch), optimized for space-constrained PCB layouts in handheld instrumentation and medical sensors.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 12-bit SAR ADC applications.

Compared with ADS7822U and MAX11131AUT+, the MAX1293ACEG uniquely combines 4-channel analog multiplexing, byte-wide parallel interface, and VLOGIC voltage flexibility - making it optimal for cost-sensitive, multi-sensor embedded systems requiring deterministic read timing and minimal external components.

Availability

MAX1293ACEG is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor interface, patient monitoring, data logging, and energy management applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for MAX1293ACEG 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) designs precision analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for demanding industrial, medical, and communications applications.

The MAX1293ACEG belongs to Maxim's low-power, high-accuracy SAR ADC product line, engineered specifically for battery-operated and space-constrained data-acquisition systems needing integrated reference and flexible digital interfacing.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for MAX1293ACEG?

The MAX1293ACEG is specified for 0°C to +70°C ambient operation, as indicated by the 'C' grade suffix in its ordering code. This commercial temperature range supports deployment in indoor industrial controls, portable test equipment, and consumer medical devices where ambient conditions remain within standard room-temperature limits. The device maintains ±0.5 LSB INL and ±1 LSB DNL across this full range, ensuring consistent measurement accuracy without derating.

Does MAX1293ACEG require an external clock source?

No, MAX1293ACEG does not require an external clock source. It includes an internal 3MHz clock generator that supports 250ksps sampling in internal clock mode. When using internal clock mode, the CLK pin must be tied to VDD or GND to prevent floating; external clock mode (100kHz–4.8MHz) is optional and selected via control byte bits D6/D7. Internal clock operation simplifies system design by eliminating clock routing and jitter concerns.

How does the HBEN pin function on MAX1293ACEG?

The HBEN (High Byte Enable) pin on MAX1293ACEG controls data bus multiplexing: when HBEN = 1, D0–D7 output the four most significant bits (D8–D11) of the 12-bit conversion result; when HBEN = 0, D0–D7 output the eight least significant bits (D0–D7). This allows 8-bit microcontrollers to read the full 12-bit word in two consecutive cycles without external latches or data alignment logic, reducing firmware overhead and PCB complexity.

Can MAX1293ACEG operate with a 1.8V digital supply?

Yes, MAX1293ACEG can operate with a 1.8V digital supply applied to the VLOGIC pin, while maintaining full functionality of its parallel interface (D0–D7, INT, CS, WR, RD) and internal analog core (VDD = +3V). The datasheet explicitly specifies VLOGIC range as +1.8V to +3.6V, enabling direct interfacing with modern low-voltage MCUs without level translators - a key advantage for power-sensitive portable designs.

What is the minimum acquisition time required before conversion starts?

The minimum acquisition time (tACQ) for MAX1293ACEG is 3.2µs under typical conditions (VDD = +3V, fCLK = 4.8MHz). This value is fixed in internal acquisition mode and represents the time needed for the internal track/hold capacitor to settle to ±0.5 LSB. In external acquisition mode, the user controls acquisition duration via WR timing, but must allow ≥3.2µs between WR edges to guarantee full settling - shorter intervals risk missing codes or increased DNL beyond ±1 LSB.