Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX1444EHJ+

Overview

MAX1444EHJ+ from Maxim Integrated is a 10-bit, 40Msps analog-to-digital converter with pipelined architecture, fully differential track-and-hold input, and on-chip 2.048V precision bandgap reference. It operates from a single 2.7V–3.6V supply, delivers 59.5dB SNR at 20MHz input, and consumes only 19mA in normal operation. It targets high-dynamic-performance imaging and communications systems including ultrasound and CCD digitization.

For engineers reviewing the MAX1444EHJ+ datasheet, MAX1444EHJ+ pinout, MAX1444EHJ+ application, or MAX1444EHJ+ equivalent, key selection criteria include its 400MHz –3dB input bandwidth, 5.5-cycle data latency, CMOS-compatible three-state parallel outputs (1.7V–3.6V), internal reference flexibility, and extended industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C).

Technical Context

The MAX1444EHJ+ implements a 10-stage, fully differential pipelined ADC architecture with 1.5-bit flash quantizers per stage and digital error correction. Sampling occurs on the falling edge of the 40MHz clock, with 5.5 clock-cycle latency from sample to valid output data.

Its analog front-end features a wideband track-and-hold amplifier supporting both differential and single-ended inputs, with ±1.0V differential input range, VDD/2 common-mode voltage, and 400MHz full-power bandwidth. Reference configuration supports internal, buffered external, or unbuffered external modes - enabling precise full-scale adjustment without external components in most cases.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX1444EHJ+ is housed in a 5mm × 5mm, 32-pin TQFP package with exposed thermal pad (EP), rated for –40°C to +85°C operation. Pin assignments are optimized for analog signal integrity: dedicated analog/digital grounds (GND, OGND), separate analog/digital supplies (VDD, OVDD), and isolated reference pins (REFP, REFN, REFIN, REFOUT, COM).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar high-speed ADC applications.

Compared with MAX1444EHJ+, MAX1446EHJ+ offers higher speed at the cost of increased power and thermal load, while ADS5271IPFP trades integrated reference and CMOS outputs for LVDS noise immunity and smaller footprint - making each alternative optimal under distinct system-level trade-offs.

Availability

MAX1444EHJ+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for ultrasound imaging, CCD digitization, baseband/IF sampling, and digital set-top box designs requiring stable component supply, long-term manufacturability, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MAX1444EHJ+ 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 markets.

The MAX1444EHJ+ belongs to Maxim's high-speed data converter product line, designed specifically for low-power, high-dynamic-range digitization in portable and thermally constrained imaging and communications equipment.

FAQ

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the MAX1444EHJ+?

The MAX1444EHJ+ supports a maximum clock frequency of 40MHz, as specified in its absolute maximum ratings and electrical characteristics. Operation beyond this frequency is not guaranteed and may degrade dynamic performance metrics such as SNR and SFDR. The device achieves full 40Msps sampling only when driven with a clean, low-jitter clock meeting the 12.5ns ±3.8ns pulse-width requirements and <2ns rise/fall times.

Does the MAX1444EHJ+ require an external reference voltage?

No, the MAX1444EHJ+ does not require an external reference voltage because it integrates a precision 2.048V ±1% bandgap reference with 60ppm/°C temperature coefficient. This internal reference sets the full-scale range via REFP and REFN. However, the device also supports buffered or unbuffered external reference modes through the REFIN pin for applications demanding tighter accuracy or different input voltage ranges.

How does the power-down mode function on the MAX1444EHJ+?

The MAX1444EHJ+ enters a 5µA ultra-low-power shutdown state when the PD pin is driven high while OE is held high. In this mode, the analog core, reference buffers, and clock receiver are disabled. Wake-up time is 1.7µs after PD returns low. During shutdown, digital outputs remain in high-impedance state, and no conversion activity occurs - ideal for duty-cycled systems like handheld ultrasound probes.

What is the analog input configuration flexibility of the MAX1444EHJ+?

The MAX1444EHJ+ supports both fully differential and single-ended analog input configurations. For differential operation, apply complementary signals to IN+ and IN− with common-mode voltage at VDD/2. For single-ended use, tie IN− to COM and drive IN+ with the signal source. Input bandwidth remains 400MHz in both modes, though differential drive yields superior SFDR and THD - especially above 10MHz - due to inherent even-harmonic cancellation.

Can the MAX1444EHJ+ interface directly with a 1.8V FPGA I/O bank?

Yes, the MAX1444EHJ+ can interface directly with a 1.8V FPGA I/O bank because its digital outputs (D9–D0) are CMOS-compatible and operate from OVDD = 1.7V to 3.6V. When OVDD is supplied at 1.8V, VOH ≥ 1.6V and VOL ≤ 0.2V meet standard 1.8V LVTTL/LVCMOS thresholds. No level-shifting circuitry is needed, provided OE and PD are referenced to OVDD and the FPGA's I/O bank is configured for 1.8V operation.